
20 H Fernleigh Drive, Castleknock, Dublin 15D15EF44
€259,000
1 Bed~1 Bath~50 m²~BER C
What you'll like:
- Prime suburban location: Situated in the highly sought-after Castleknock area, offering excellent community appeal and strong long-term desirability for future resale value.
- Walkable local amenities: Located within walking distance of local shops, schools, pubs, and recreational facilities, ensuring daily conveniences are easily accessible without a car.
- Excellent transport links: Close proximity to established bus and train routes provides effortless commuting options into central Dublin and surrounding employment hubs.
- Sunny balcony orientation: Features a private south-east-facing balcony that captures optimal morning and midday sunlight while providing pleasant views over green areas.
- Immaculate interior presentation: Described as an immaculate blank canvas that has been freshly painted, allowing a new buyer to move in immediately without undertaking urgent cosmetic works.
- Efficient floor area: Encompasses approximately 50 square meters of well-proportioned living space, maximising functionality for a comfortable one-bedroom apartment layout.
- Comfortable double bedroom: Includes a spacious double bedroom complete with built-in wardrobes, offering practical storage solutions and a cozy private retreat.
- Fully tiled bathroom: Benefits from a fully tiled family bathroom that presents a clean, modern aesthetic and simplifies ongoing maintenance for the occupant.
- Secure gated development: Positioned inside a secure gated community, enhancing personal safety and providing peace of mind for residents and visiting guests.
- Vacant possession ready: Offered with vacant possession, which significantly simplifies the purchasing timeline and removes common delays associated with upper chains.
- Ideal investment appeal: Highly attractive for buy-to-let investors due to strong rental demand in Castleknock and proximity to major commercial and transport corridors.
- First-time buyer friendly: Serves as an affordable stepping stone onto the property ladder for first-time purchasers seeking a manageable entry price point.
- Green open spaces: The development features well-maintained communal green areas surrounding the block, creating a pleasant visual environment and neighborhood atmosphere.
- Soundproofing and insulation: Notable upgrades include reported soundproofing and ceiling insulation, which should contribute to improved acoustic privacy and thermal efficiency.
- Upgraded water pump: Features a newly installed pump system, helping to ensure consistent water pressure throughout the bathroom and kitchen fixtures.
- Natural light distribution: Positioned on the third floor, the apartment benefits from elevated sightlines and enhanced natural light flowing into the living spaces.
- Strong community reputation: Fernleigh Drive is a mature and established neighborhood known for its welcoming atmosphere and active resident management structure.
- Downsizer suitability: Offers a low-maintenance, single-level living arrangement that appeals to older buyers looking to reduce upkeep while staying in a familiar suburb.
- Communal parking availability: Provides designated communal parking spaces within the development, ensuring convenient vehicle accommodation for residents and visitors.
- Straightforward access layout: Clear driving directions and estate layout make visitor navigation simple when arriving from the Diswellstown Road roundabout.
But keep in mind:
- Third floor stair access: Located on the third floor accessed strictly via stairs, which could present daily physical challenges or moving difficulties over time.
- Electric storage heating: Relies on electric storage heaters which can be less responsive and potentially more expensive to run compared to modern gas systems.
- Annual management fees: Carries an annual management fee of approximately 1,700 euros, which directly impacts ongoing monthly ownership costs and budget planning.
- Single bathroom limit: Features only one bathroom serving the property, limiting convenience when hosting guests or if multiple occupants reside there.
- Apartment density living: As part of a larger multi-unit apartment block, residents must navigate shared corridors, common areas, and potential noise from neighbors.
- BER rating C energy: Holds a C energy rating, meaning heating efficiency may not match modern nearly-zero-energy buildings, potentially resulting in higher utility bills.
- Management fee increases: Buyers must verify if sinking fund contributions are robust and check for any upcoming fee hikes or planned special assessments.
- Communal parking limits: While parking is communal, availability during peak evening hours should be verified to ensure dedicated spaces are consistently accessible.
- Management company rules: Living in a managed development entails adherence to strict estate covenants regarding pets, subletting, and exterior alterations.
- Staircase furniture moving: Hauling large furniture or appliances up three flights of stairs requires careful planning and potential professional hoisting assistance.
- Waste management charges: Buyers should confirm whether refuse collection is included within the annual management fee or billed separately by private providers.
- Fire safety compliance: Due diligence should include verifying that the apartment block complies with all current post-construction fire safety regulations and standards.
- Bicycle storage availability: The listing does not specify secure bicycle parking, which is an important consideration for cyclists using local transport links.
- Soundproofing verification: While upgrades are mentioned, buyers should independently test acoustic insulation levels against potential impact noise from upper or adjoining units.
- Future local development: Investigate surrounding zoned lands in Castleknock to ensure unexpected future construction will not obstruct views or increase local traffic.
- Window and seal inspection: Inspect double-glazed windows and balcony doors for signs of seal failure or drafts given the elevated third-floor exposure.
- Electrical system check: Verify the age and capacity of the fuse board and electrical circuits to ensure safe operation of modern appliances.
- Ventilation and humidity: Check bathroom and kitchen extraction systems thoroughly to prevent potential condensation and mold issues common in third-floor apartments.
- Insurance cost variations: Building insurance is typically covered by management fees, but contents insurance premiums for third-floor units should be quoted independently.
- Title and lease review: Legal representation must closely examine the leasehold terms, remaining lease length, and any restrictive covenants tied to the property.
Price positioning
?
- The asking price of €259,000 for this third-floor apartment appears notably attractive and potentially undervalued when weighed against broader regional residential benchmarks across the wider Dublin 15 suburban market for compact one-bedroom configurations.
- Strong valuation signals include the efficient fifty square metre layout, a desirable south-east facing balcony with green views, and an established location close to essential public transport links and local amenities.
- Potential factors that could support such an accessible price point involve annual management fees of approximately seventeen hundred euros, third-floor stair access without elevator infrastructure, and a moderate BER energy rating of C.
- Relevant market dynamics indicate that well-presented apartments appealing to first-time buyers and downsizers often generate competitive interest, meaning the initial quoting figure could serve as a strategic entry point to encourage brisk competitive bidding.
Build Analysis
What we know from similar construction types
- The property is a third-floor apartment spanning approximately 50 square metres, featuring one bedroom, one bathroom, and a south-east-facing balcony.
- The listing notes include improvements such as soundproofing, ceiling insulation, and a new pump, which a buyer should verify alongside the quality and condition of these upgrades.
- As the property is located within a managed development, a buyer should investigate the annual management fee of approximately 1,700 euros, what it covers, the status of the sinking fund, and any upcoming building or fire safety compliance works.
Heating cost*
Estimated expense to heat this property every year
- Estimated annual heating cost is approximately 800 to 1,100 euro.
- This estimate reflects the 50 square metre floor area and the C BER rating, combined with the electric storage heating system mentioned in the property description.
Pollution Safe
9/10Environmental situation to investigate
Flood Safe
8/10Water overflow reports to follow up
Recent Local Sales
Verified residential transactions published in the previous five years
Sales on the same street or estate
No verified results were found for this group in the previous five years.
Recent sales in the wider Castleknock area
12 FERNLEIGH GRANGE, CARPENTERSTOWN, DUBLIN 15
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €350,000.00
36 LINNETFIELDS PARK, CLONEE, DUBLIN 15
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €283,000.00
83 GARNISH SQ, WATERVILLE, BLANCHARDSTOWN DUBLIN 15
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €438,000.00
33 RATHBOURNE AVE, DUBLIN 15, DUBLIN
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €393,000.00
54 WHITESTOWN WALK, BLANCHARDSTOWN, DUBLIN 15
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €439,000.00
Source: Property Services Regulatory Authority (PSRA), Residential Property Price Register (PPR). Matching uses address information published by the PPR rather than measured map distance. It may omit nearby properties on differently named streets.
Last Sale
A confidently matched previous PPR transaction for this property
No confidently matched previous sale was found in the Property Price Register.
Buyer fees*
Associated expenses guide
- Stamp duty: approximately 1 percent of the purchase price, amounting to 2,590 euro for a 259,000 euro property.
- Solicitor legal fees: roughly 1,500 to 2,500 euro excluding outlays and VAT.
- Land registration fees: approximately 130 to 175 euro depending on the filing method.
- Property valuation fees: around 150 to 250 euro.
- Surveyor fees: approximately 300 to 600 euro for a standard apartment inspection.
- Annual home insurance: roughly 300 to 500 euro depending on the policy coverage.
Forum Talk
What people are saying about this area
- Residents frequently praise the Castleknock area for its strong community atmosphere and convenience to local parks and walking trails.
- Commuters often discuss transport links in local forums, noting good access to bus and train routes into Dublin city centre.
- Local discussions frequently highlight the proximity of schools, shops, and recreational amenities within walking distance of developments like Fernleigh.
- Homeowners in the wider area often mention active residents' associations and well-maintained communal green spaces.
LifeFit Assessment
How well this property may suit your lifestyle
Family
7 areas- Young Children3/10
The property is a compact one-bedroom, one-bathroom third-floor apartment with a floor area of 50 m², making it far too small for families with young children on a permanent basis.
- Teenagers2/10
A single-bedroom apartment lacks the space and privacy required for teenagers, limiting its suitability for family living with older children.
- Multi-generational Living1/10
With only one bedroom and 50 m² of space, multi-generational living is completely unviable for this property.
- Single Buyers10/10
This immaculate one-bedroom third-floor apartment is an ideal starter home or blank canvas for single buyers looking for a manageable, well-located property.
- Couples8/10
The property works well as a cozy starter home for a couple, offering a generous living and dining area, although the single bedroom is a notable constraint.
- Empty Nesters8/10
Offering low maintenance and secure living on a third floor, this apartment suits downsizers or empty nesters looking to simplify their lifestyle, though buyers should verify stair access since it is on the third floor.
- Retirees6/10
While the development is secure and low-maintenance, retirees should consider that the apartment is located on the third floor via stairs, which may pose accessibility challenges over time.
Work
3 areas- Remote Working8/10
The well-proportioned living space and bright interior provide a comfortable environment for remote working, though the single-bedroom layout means working space is integrated into the main living areas.
- Hybrid Commuting8/10
Conveniently located with bus and train routes in close proximity, making hybrid commuting into the city center feasible.
- Retired7/10
The low-maintenance nature of apartment living appeals to retirees, though the third-floor stair access is an important consideration.
Practical
8 areas- Ageing in Place4/10
While the apartment is low-maintenance, being situated on the third floor accessible via stairs presents challenges for ageing in place.
- Low Maintenance9/10
As a managed apartment with communal parking and exterior upkeep handled by management (annual fee c.1,700), day-to-day maintenance is minimal.
- Secure Gated Entry9/10
The property is explicitly noted as being set within a secure gated development, offering added peace of mind.
- Minimalist Design8/10
The 50 m² layout and freshly painted blank canvas interior lend themselves well to a minimalist lifestyle.
- Flexible Floor Plans4/10
With a fixed one-bedroom and one-bathroom layout across 50 m², there is limited structural flexibility.
- Heritage Home1/10
This is a modern apartment development rather than a period or heritage property.
- Ecological Setup5/10
The property features a BER rating of C and electric storage heaters; buyers looking for higher ecological efficiency may wish to explore upgrades.
- Outdoor areas6/10
The apartment benefits from a private south-east-facing balcony overlooking green areas, providing pleasant private outdoor space.
Interests
9 areas- Gardening2/10
As a third-floor apartment with only a sunny south-east-facing balcony, opportunities for gardening are limited to potted plants.
- Walking8/10
The area offers good walkability with local amenities, schools, and transport routes within walking distance.
- Gym6/10
While the listing mentions recreational facilities nearby, buyers should verify the exact distance and availability of local commercial gym facilities.
- Cycling6/10
The suburban location allows for cycling, though buyers should verify secure bicycle storage arrangements within the development.
- Golf5/10
Castleknock and surrounding areas feature golf courses, but proximity depends on specific club locations.
- Fishing3/10
There are no notable fishing amenities directly associated with or adjacent to this suburban apartment development.
- Horse Riding2/10
Equestrian facilities are not a prominent feature of this suburban location.
- Water Sports2/10
The property is located in an inland residential suburb far from major water sports hubs.
- Entertaining6/10
The generous living and dining area opening onto a sunny south-east-facing balcony provides a nice space for hosting a small number of guests.
Lifestyle
5 areas- Quiet Living7/10
Situated in a popular and mature development with pleasant green views, the apartment offers a peaceful environment, though apartment living naturally involves some shared building noise.
- Rural Living1/10
Located in Castleknock, Dublin 15, this is an urban/suburban setting completely removed from rural living.
- Village Living7/10
The location benefits from a strong community atmosphere with local amenities, shops, and pubs within walking distance, mirroring a village-like convenience.
- Coastal Living1/10
The property is inland in Dublin 15 and has no proximity to the coast.
- Urban Living8/10
Positioned in a sought-after Dublin suburb with good access to transport links, shops, and services, it offers a convenient urban and suburban lifestyle.
Social
6 areas- Community Involvement8/10
The development is noted for its strong community atmosphere and mature, sought-after neighborhood feel.
- Café Culture6/10
Local shops and amenities are within walking distance, offering access to local conveniences and nearby cafe options.
- Nightlife4/10
While there are local pubs nearby, the immediate area is primarily residential rather than a bustling nightlife hub.
- Health/Wellness groups6/10
Buyers should investigate local community centers and pilates & stretching classes available in the wider Castleknock area.
- Networking Opportunities5/10
Networking opportunities are typical of a suburban residential area, requiring travel into broader Dublin commercial hubs for extensive professional networking.
- Tech-Hub Connectivity7/10
Good transport links provide access to Dublin's major employment and tech centers.
Listing information
- Agent
- Ray Cooke Auctioneers
- Phone
- 01 403 0720
- Published on HouseDelve
- 27 September 2026
- Correction
- Report an issue
HD-98C2E8HouseDelve · Republic of IrelandReport checks
Sources used: Public marketplace, Property Price Register, and grounded web research where available.
Automated quality checks: Passed
* Estimate — not advice. Actual costs and outcomes can vary materially. Obtain current quotations and professional advice before making financial or property decisions.