
3 Auburn Villas, Rathgar, Dublin 6D06R590
€1,500,000
4 Bed~3 Bath~BER E
What you'll like:
- Victorian Architectural Character: The handsome double-fronted exterior dating from 1847 retains exceptional period proportions, original marble fireplaces, and classic architectural detailing that appeals to heritage property enthusiasts.
- Prime Dublin Location: Quietly positioned within a leafy and discreet cul-de-sac just off Rathgar Road, offering immediate access to local village amenities and cafes.
- Generous Rear Garden: Features a remarkable south-east facing rear garden extending to approximately 80 feet, providing mature planting and excellent privacy for outdoor family activities.
- Flexible Accommodation Layout: Offers a versatile multi-level layout including four bedrooms, distinct reception rooms, and a modern garden-level kitchen suitable for contemporary family living.
- Impressive Principal Rooms: The formal drawing and dining rooms showcase impressive vertical scale and abundant natural light, reflecting the grand stature of nineteenth-century domestic architecture.
- Established Neighborhood Setting: Situated within one of Dublin's most sought-after residential areas, surrounded by high-value properties which traditionally supports strong long-term capital appreciation.
- Green Space Proximity: Bushy Park and the scenic River Dodder are within easy walking distance, offering fantastic recreational amenities for weekend walks and outdoor sports.
- Walking Distance Village: Rathgar Village is steps away, providing an excellent choice of independent boutiques, gourmet food shops, and neighborhood dining options.
- Private Cul-de-Sac Setting: The discreet enclave location minimizes through traffic, ensuring a remarkably peaceful and secluded environment despite the central urban setting.
- Granite Entrance Steps: Distinctive exterior granite steps enhance the impressive street presence and provide a classic formal approach to the main entrance level.
- Modern Kitchen Extension: The garden-level kitchen is equipped with French oak flooring and polished granite worktops, creating a functional contemporary cooking space that connects outside.
- Multiple En Suite Bedrooms: Upper floor bedrooms benefit from dedicated dressing areas and en suite facilities, offering comfortable private suites for family members or guests.
- Historic Mantlepieces: Retains decorative period fireplaces throughout the principal rooms, adding authentic character and focal points to the interior living spaces.
- Scope for Enhancement: The property acts as a blank canvas with incredible potential for a discerning buyer to customize and modernize the historic interiors.
- Family Friendly Enclave: The combination of generous garden space and safe cul-de-sac positioning makes this a wonderful environment for raising children.
- Stable Asking Price: The recorded asking price has remained steady at 1,500,000 euros without erratic fluctuations, suggesting a straightforward and motivated vendor approach.
- Dual Aspect Reception: Ground floor rooms positioned to either side of the wide hallway create a balanced and symmetrical layout typical of high-end period homes.
- Utility and Storage Space: Includes a dedicated utility room and cloakroom at the garden level, providing essential practical amenities for busy modern households.
- Commuter Accessibility: The central location offers straightforward transit routes into Dublin city center via nearby arterial bus corridors and cycling infrastructure.
- Rare Market Offering: Properties of this specific Victorian calibre and historic pedigree rarely come available on the local market, making this an exclusive acquisition opportunity.
But keep in mind:
- Poor Energy Rating: The property carries a weak E energy rating, which will require substantial insulation and heating upgrades to achieve modern comfort standards.
- Significant Modernization Needed: The listing explicitly notes the home is in need of updating, meaning buyers should budget extensively for comprehensive internal renovations.
- Unstated Floor Area: Total floor area dimensions are omitted from the listing details, requiring the buyer to commission independent measurement surveys before making offers.
- Historic Conservation Restrictions: Due to the 1847 Victorian construction date, local planning restrictions may heavily limit exterior modifications and modern window replacements.
- Dated Mechanical Services: Older plumbing and electrical systems likely require complete rewiring and replumbing to support modern kitchen and bathroom appliances safely.
- High Capital Investment: Factoring the 1,500,000 euro asking price alongside heavy renovation costs will require a substantial total project budget for the buyer.
- Basement Level Vulnerability: The garden-level layout may be prone to dampness issues typical of older lower-ground structures, requiring careful damp-proofing investigations.
- Single-Glazed Windows Risk: Period sash windows may be drafty or degraded, necessitating costly specialist thermal restoration or approved secondary glazing installations.
- Roof and Structure Dilapidation: Buyers should conduct thorough structural surveys to check for hidden timber rot, slate degradation, or structural settling in the 180-year-old frame.
- Upgrading Disruption: Undertaking extensive renovations across multiple Victorian levels will likely render parts of the house uninhabitable for several months.
- Bathroom Modernization Required: Several bathrooms and en suites appear to need full replacement to meet contemporary aesthetic and sanitary expectations.
- Unclear Boundary Extent: The true legal boundaries of the 80-foot garden and shared access points should be verified carefully by legal counsel during conveyancing.
- Potential Asbestos Presence: Older building materials used in mid-nineteenth-century dwellings can occasionally contain hazardous substances requiring professional removal oversight.
- Heating System Overhaul: The presence of open fireplaces and older radiators suggests the central heating boiler requires complete replacement with an efficient modern system.
- Drainage Infrastructure Age: Underground clay drainage pipes serving the Victorian structure may be cracked or root-damaged, necessitating a CCTV drain survey.
- Ventilation Deficits: Period homes often lack adequate sub-floor and wall ventilation, which can exacerbate condensation risks once modern insulation is installed.
- Strict Planning Oversight: Any major rear extension or structural reconfiguration will face rigorous scrutiny from local planning authorities regarding architectural heritage protection.
- Lack of Off-Street Parking: The listing does not mention private parking, which could present daily vehicle storage challenges in this busy urban neighborhood.
- Garden Maintenance Demands: An extensive 80-foot south-east facing garden with mature planting will require significant ongoing landscaping effort and regular professional upkeep.
- Renovation Cost Escalation: Heritage restoration projects frequently encounter unforeseen structural expenses, making it vital for buyers to retain a substantial contingency fund.
Price positioning
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- The asking price appears somewhat undervalued relative to typical large Victorian residences in prime Dublin locations, primarily because a significant capital investment will be immediately required to upgrade the poor energy efficiency rating.
- The primary under-valuation signals stem from the very low E energy rating on a period home of this scale, which signals substantial mandatory retrofit costs that prospective buyers will factor directly into their opening offers.
- The asking price could be heavily supported by the rare combination of historical character, original features, and an unusually large south-east facing garden in a highly sought-after neighbourhood, though extensive modernization costs could undermine final achieved values.
- The stable single-price tracking history suggests a firm vendor stance, yet the property's requirement for updating provides motivated buyers with considerable leverage to negotiate below the initial listing figure.
Build Analysis
What we know from similar construction types
- The property is a handsome double-fronted Victorian residence dating from approximately 1847, retaining period features such as original floorboards, marble fireplaces, and granite steps.
- The listing notes the property is in need of some updating, suggesting a buyer should budget for modernizing mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems typical of a mid-19th-century home.
- Given the period nature of the building, a thorough structural survey is recommended to investigate potential issues such as damp, timber rot, roof integrity, and the condition of original sash windows.
- Any planned alterations, modernizations, or extensions should be investigated for compliance with local planning regulations and conservation guidelines applicable to period properties in Rathgar.
Retrofit Cost*
Possible renovating / insulating expenditure
- The property has a BER rating of E, placing it in the D–G category which indicates poor energy efficiency and high heat loss.
- A deep retrofit for a large multi-story Victorian home of this scale typically costs between EUR 70,000 and EUR 120,000 or more.
- Costs would include comprehensive external or internal wall insulation (while preserving historic fabric), window upgrades or restoration, a modern heating system installation, and roof or floor insulation to bring the energy rating up to a modern standard.
Heating cost*
Estimated expense to heat this property every year
- Estimated annual heating cost: approximately 3,000 to 4,500 euro
- Explanation: Given the E energy rating and period Victorian construction without modern insulation standards, heating requirements are likely high and should be investigated by the buyer.
Pollution Safe
9/10Environmental situation to investigate
- The property is located in an established, leafy residential neighborhood well away from major heavy industrial zones, large modern landfills, or active waste incinerators.
- As with many older urban areas, buyers may wish to verify general historical urban soil conditions or any legacy services, though no specific local industrial hazards are prominently reported.
Flood Safe
7/10Water overflow reports to follow up
- The property is located in Rathgar, an established residential area in Dublin 6, positioned a short distance from the River Dodder corridor.
- While proximity to the River Dodder means certain low-lying sections of the wider locality can be vulnerable to river flooding during extreme weather events, specific mapping data for this exact address is currently unavailable.
- The multi-level Victorian layout features garden-level accommodation which should be considered when assessing general surface water drainage during heavy rainfall.
Recent Local Sales
Verified residential transactions published in the previous five years
Sales on the same street or estate
12 AUBURN VILLAS, RATHGAR, DUBLIN
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €315,000.00
12A AUBURN VILLAS, RATHGAR, DUBLIN
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €390,000.00
Recent sales in the wider Rathgar area
42 MILLTOWN GROVE, MILLTOWN, DUBLIN 6
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €480,000.00
11 OAKLANDS, YORK RD, RATHMINES DUBLIN 6
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €675,000.00
51 ST KEVINS PARK, DARTRY, DUBLIN 6
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €4,400,000.00
13 PEMBROKE COTTAGES, DONNYBROOK, DUBLIN 6
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €640,000.00
30 ANNESLEY PARK, RANELAGH, DUBLIN 6
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €2,750,000.00
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
- Estimated stamp duty: €20,000 — 1% of €1,000,000 + 2% of €500,000.
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Based on the asking price shown on this page, using standard residential stamp-duty rates. No adjustments are made for VAT, reliefs, mixed-use property or additional land. The final purchase price and your circumstances may change the amount payable.
- Solicitor legal fees: approximately 1,500 to 3,500 euro plus VAT
- Land registration fees: approximately 400 to 800 euro depending on property value
- Property valuation fees: approximately 150 to 300 euro
- Surveyor fees: approximately 500 to 1,500 euro depending on the depth of inspection
- Annual home insurance: approximately 400 to 900 euro
Forum Talk
What people are saying about this area
- Residents frequently discuss the historic charm and strong community feel of Rathgar, highlighting its quiet residential enclaves.
- Local forums note excellent walkability to Rathgar Village, with praise for local cafes, boutiques, and everyday amenities.
- Proximity to Bushy Park and the River Dodder is regularly highlighted by locals as a major lifestyle benefit for families and walkers.
- Traffic congestion during peak commuting hours along main arteries towards Dublin city center is a common topic of discussion among locals.
LifeFit Assessment
How well this property may suit your lifestyle
Family
7 areas- Young Children7/10
The home offers an extraordinary 80ft south-east facing rear garden and ample bedroom space across multiple levels, making it wonderful for children to play safely outdoors. However, the property features a significant BER rating of E and is in need of some updating, which buyers with young families should factor in alongside internal stairs and period features.
- Teenagers8/10
With four bedrooms and generous, well-proportioned accommodation including separate reception and family rooms, teenagers will appreciate the space and privacy. The location within easy walking distance of Rathgar Village provides great independence for older children.
- Multi-generational Living6/10
The double-fronted Victorian layout provides distinct zones across the garden level, ground floor, and upper floors, which can suit extended family arrangements. However, the multi-level nature of the home, including traditional granite steps and a garden level, may present accessibility challenges for elderly relatives.
- Single Buyers4/10
Priced at 1,500,000 and requiring updating with an E BER rating, this substantial period property is likely too large and resource-intensive for the typical single buyer looking for low maintenance.
- Couples7/10
Couples looking for a grand period project with exceptional character and a large private garden will find this property appealing. The asking price has remained stable at 1,500,000, indicating a firm vendor position in an established neighbourhood.
- Empty Nesters6/10
The proximity to Rathgar Village, cafés, and Bushy Park suits empty nesters looking to downsize to a vibrant village lifestyle while retaining independent space. However, the scale of a multi-storey Victorian home and necessary modernization works may deter some.
- Retirees5/10
While the leafy, discreet cul-de-sac and village proximity are attractive for retirees, the presence of stairs, traditional granite entrance steps, and the need for some updating mean buyers should verify if the layout suits long-term aging in place without modifications.
Work
3 areas- Remote Working8/10
Includes versatile spaces such as a study/child's bedroom on the first-floor return and multiple reception rooms that can easily accommodate home offices.
- Hybrid Commuting9/10
Excellent connectivity from Rathgar into Dublin city centre makes hybrid commuting highly convenient for professionals.
- Retired7/10
Well-suited for active retirees who appreciate village proximity and low-maintenance urban conveniences, subject to managing a multi-storey property.
Practical
8 areas- Ageing in Place4/10
The multi-level Victorian layout featuring granite entrance steps, basement garden level, and upper floors means buyers should investigate potential structural adaptations for aging in place.
- Low Maintenance3/10
As a historic 1847 Victorian property in need of some updating and carrying a BER rating of E, ongoing maintenance will require active management and capital investment.
- Secure Gated Entry5/10
Set quietly back in a leafy cul-de-sac behind granite steps, offering good natural privacy, though private gated security is not explicitly highlighted.
- Minimalist Design2/10
The property is defined by Victorian grandeur, period details, original floorboards, and traditional fireplaces, which counters a minimalist aesthetic.
- Flexible Floor Plans8/10
Features a generous double-fronted layout with multiple reception rooms, a garden-level family room, and versatile bedroom spaces offering a true blank canvas.
- Heritage Home10/10
A handsome double-fronted Victorian residence dating from 1847, retaining exceptional character, original proportions, and period architectural details.
- Ecological Setup2/10
Carries a weak BER rating of E and historic construction features, meaning buyers should investigate upgrades to improve energy efficiency.
- Outdoor areas9/10
Features a remarkable private rear garden extending to approximately 80ft with a south-east orientation, mature planting, and a patio area off the kitchen.
Interests
9 areas- Gardening9/10
Features a remarkable private rear garden extending to approximately 80ft with a south-east aspect, mature planting, and established greenery, offering fantastic potential for avid gardeners.
- Walking9/10
Bushy Park and the River Dodder are within easy reach, alongside walkable access to local village amenities and Dublin city paths.
- Gym7/10
The surrounding established south Dublin area offers good local fitness options and club facilities, though no dedicated home gym space is explicitly detailed outside of the flexible room layouts.
- Cycling7/10
The central Rathgar location provides accessible cycling routes into Dublin city centre and surrounding residential districts.
- Golf6/10
Several well-known Dublin golf clubs are within a reasonable driving distance from the south Dublin postcode.
- Fishing3/10
Proximity to the River Dodder offers minor local angling opportunities, but the area is primarily residential and urban.
- Horse Riding3/10
Urban setting means equestrian pursuits require travel outside the immediate neighborhood, though nearby parks offer some recreational utility.
- Water Sports2/10
Inland suburban location provides no immediate access to water sports facilities, requiring travel to coastal Dublin or lakes.
- Entertaining9/10
Impressive principal reception rooms with period detail, combined with an 80ft south-east facing rear garden and patio, make this an exceptional home for hosting guests.
Lifestyle
5 areas- Quiet Living8/10
Quietly positioned in a discreet and leafy cul-de-sac just off Rathgar Road, the property offers an exceptional sense of privacy and seclusion despite its central urban-edge location.
- Rural Living1/10
Located firmly in the heart of Rathgar, Dublin 6, this property offers an entirely urban and suburban village experience with zero rural characteristics.
- Village Living10/10
The location is hard to rival, sitting within easy walking distance of Rathgar Village with its excellent choice of cafés, restaurants, and boutiques.
- Coastal Living1/10
The property is landlocked in a prime south Dublin residential suburb and has no proximity to the coast.
- Urban Living9/10
Positioned in Dublin 6 with immediate access to village amenities, public transport corridors, and central Dublin, offering a classic upscale urban lifestyle.
Social
6 areas- Community Involvement8/10
Located in a settled, established neighborhood with strong local community ties and active resident associations in Rathgar.
- Café Culture10/10
Rathgar Village is renowned for its vibrant selection of local cafés, artisanal bakeries, and boutique coffee spots within a short stroll.
- Nightlife7/10
Good local pubs and restaurants within the village, with quick access to the wider nightlife offerings of Rathmines and Dublin city centre.
- Health/Wellness groups8/10
Proximity to Bushy Park and local community centers supports various pilates & stretching classes, fitness groups, and wellness clubs.
- Networking Opportunities7/10
Proximity to professional hubs across south Dublin and the city centre provides strong networking potential for working buyers.
- Tech-Hub Connectivity8/10
Strong digital infrastructure availability in Dublin 6 supports remote tech roles and digital connectivity.
Listing information
- Agent
- Mullery O Gara Estate Agents
- Phone
- 01 255 2489
- Current status
- active
- Published on HouseDelve
- 15 September 2026
- Correction
- Report an issue
HD-36CDB8HouseDelve · 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.