38 Saint Patrick's Cottages, Rathfarnham, Dublin 14D14C7R9
€495,000
1 Bed~1 Bath~79 m²~BER F
What you'll like:
- Generous Floor Area: The property spans approximately 79 square metres, offering surprisingly spacious living quarters for a traditional one-bedroom cottage configuration.
- South Westerly Garden: Features a substantial 65-foot long rear garden capturing desirable sunny afternoon and evening light throughout the year.
- Off Street Parking: Includes valuable private off-street parking to the side, a significant convenience feature for this established residential location.
- Extension Potential: The large garden footprint provides enormous potential for future structural expansion or development, subject to acquiring necessary planning permissions.
- Proximity To Village: Situated approximately one kilometre from Rathfarnham Village, ensuring effortless access to daily retail conveniences, eateries, and local services.
- Green Spaces Nearby: Located conveniently close to both St Enda's Park and Marlay Parks, offering exceptional recreational amenities for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Transport Links: Well served by local public transport routes including the 16, 74, and S6 buses providing direct access to the city centre and airport.
- Gas Fired Heating: Equipped with an existing gas-fired central heating system, offering a standard and controllable baseline comfort setup for the new occupant.
- Double Glazed Windows: Fitted with double-glazed windows throughout, helping to reduce external road noise and improve internal thermal retention capacities somewhat.
- Original Fireplace Feature: The living room retains an attractive original fireplace with a tiled inset, adding charming character and a classic focal point.
- En-Suite Facilities: The large first-floor bedroom benefits from a dedicated en-suite shower room, enhancing privacy and modern convenience for residents.
- Dedicated Utility Space: Includes a practical downstairs utility area equipped with a w.c., w.h.b., and plumbing provisions for washing machines and dryers.
- Fitted Kitchen Units: The kitchen comes with a selection of fitted storage units alongside an integrated oven, hob, and extractor fan ready for use.
- Fitted Bedroom Storage: The spacious bedroom includes built-in fitted wardrobes, maximising floor space and providing ready-made storage solutions for incoming buyers.
- Established Neighborhood: Positioned within a quiet, established enclave between Grange Road and Whitechurch Road known for strong community stability and demand.
- Stable Asking Price: The asking price has remained stable at 495000 euros without increases, suggesting a straightforward and consistent vendor pricing strategy.
- School Proximity: Located within convenient reach of various local primary and secondary schools, appealing heavily to long-term owner-occupiers and families.
- Patio Doors: The kitchen features patio doors opening directly onto the rear garden room area, facilitating seamless indoor-outdoor living during warmer months.
- Manageable Footprint: As a one-bedroom dwelling, it represents a highly manageable property size for downsizers or first-time buyers seeking lower upkeep burdens.
- Bright Aspect: The orientation of the extensive rear garden ensures that natural daylight floods into the rear living spaces throughout the afternoon.
But keep in mind:
- Poor Energy Rating: The property carries a very low F energy rating, indicating severe thermal inefficiency and high potential heating costs for occupants.
- Substantial Upgrade Costs: Bringing this cottage up to modern energy standards will require significant capital investment in insulation, windows, and heating system overhauls.
- Single Bedroom Limit: The accommodation is strictly limited to one bedroom, restricting its long-term suitability for growing families or co-living arrangements.
- Renovation Requirement: The interior layout and finishes show dated elements that will likely necessitate a comprehensive modernization program before comfortable occupation.
- Planning Risks For Extension: While the garden is large, any major extension plans will be subject to strict local planning controls and potential neighbour observations.
- Narrow Cottage Layout: Traditional two-storey cottage dimensions can sometimes create awkward room proportions or restricted natural light in central internal zones.
- Upstairs Bathroom Access: The main en-suite is located on the first floor, meaning visiting guests must traverse private quarters or use the limited downstairs facilities.
- Upkeep Of Large Garden: A 65-foot garden offers great potential but demands regular landscaping maintenance and upkeep from the homeowner throughout the growing seasons.
- Traffic And Congestion: Being located between Grange Road and Whitechurch Road may expose the immediate area to notable rush-hour traffic volumes and noise.
- Stagnant Listing Signal: The asking price has remained unchanged at 495000 euros since tracking began, which could indicate limited early market traction or firm vendor stance.
- Hidden Structural Deficits: Older cottages often conceal dampness, outdated wiring, or inadequate foundations that require rigorous independent surveying prior to unconditional bidding.
- Roof Inspection Needed: Buyers should investigate the condition of the roof timbers and coverings, as older structures frequently demand costly remedial roofing works.
- Ventilation Concerns: The addition of modern insulation during future renovations must be balanced with adequate ventilation to prevent condensation issues typical in older cottages.
- Plumbing System Age: The existing plumbing infrastructure should be thoroughly checked by a professional to ensure it can support modern bathroom and utility appliances.
- Electrical Compliance: The electrical consumer unit and wiring standards should be verified by a certified electrician to ensure compliance with current safety regulations.
- Boundary Verification: Buyers must confirm exact boundary lines and legal rights-of-way pertaining to the off-street parking area and shared access points.
- Limited Resale Yield: As a one-bedroom home with an F BER, its immediate resale market may be narrower compared to standard multi-bedroom suburban housing stock.
- Disruption From Works: Undertaking any ambitious development or deep retrofitting works will likely cause temporary disruption and require alternative living arrangements.
- Sewerage And Drainage: Older properties in established areas can suffer from legacy drainage pipework issues that require CCTV surveying to rule out defects.
- External Maintenance: The external render and masonry of an older semi-detached cottage require careful ongoing inspection to prevent moisture ingress and frost damage.
Price positioning
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- The asking price of €495,000 appears relatively elevated for a single-bedroom layout, driven primarily by the generous floor area and substantial development potential offered by the extensive south-westerly rear garden rather than existing habitable accommodation size.
- Valuation signals are mixed, as the impressive 79 square metre footprint and side parking add significant intrinsic worth, yet the poor F energy rating introduces substantial immediate improvement costs that could temper aggressive buyer competition.
- Factors that could support this price include high demand for expandable suburban properties near Rathfarnham Village, whereas poor energy efficiency and necessary deep retrofitting works could seriously undermine buyer willingness to meet the full asking figure.
- The stable asking price history suggests a firm vendor stance, reflecting confidence in the localized market demand for cottages with expansion capacity, though prospective purchasers will likely factor in heavy modernization expenses during negotiations.
Build Analysis
What we know from similar construction types
- The property is a two-storey, one-bedroom semi-detached cottage featuring a floor area of approximately 79 sq. m (854 sq. ft).
- Key structural and building features include gas-fired central heating and double-glazed windows.
- The description highlights a large sunny mature south-westerly facing rear garden of approximately 65 ft with off-street parking to the side, noting potential for extension or development.
- A buyer should investigate the structural integrity of the original cottage, the age and condition of the heating system, and verify planning permissions or restrictions for any potential extension or development of the site.
Retrofit Cost*
Possible renovating / insulating expenditure
- The property holds a low BER rating of F, indicating a high energy demand and poor thermal efficiency.
- A comprehensive deep retrofit to bring the property up to a modern energy-efficient standard (such as a BER rating of A) would typically cost between €50,000 and €80,000, depending on the extent of external wall insulation, upgraded heating systems like heat pumps, solar panels, and window replacements.
- A buyer should commission a professional energy audit to determine exact upgrade requirements and associated costs.
Heating cost*
Estimated expense to heat this property every year
- Estimated annual heating cost: €1,800 to €2,300.
- Explanation: Given the property has a poor BER rating of F (349.13 kWh/m²/year) and a floor area of approximately 79 m², energy efficiency is low, leading to higher than average gas-fired central heating consumption to maintain comfort.
Pollution Safe
9/10Environmental situation to investigate
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 Rathfarnham area
62 CRANNAGH PARK, RATHFARNHAM, DUBLIN 14
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €1,150,000.00
19 RIVERSIDE DR, CHURCHTOWN, DUBLIN 14
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €1,250,000.00
21 MOORE HOUSE, LORETO ABBEY, RATHFARNHAM
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €405,000.00
27 HOLYWELL, KILMACUD RD UPPER, DUBLIN 14
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €765,000.00
32 MARLAY HOUSE, TAYLORS HILL, RATHFARNHAM DUBLIN 16
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €363,000.00
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: €4,950 — 1% of €495,000.
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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: €1,500 to €3,000 excluding outlay and VAT.
- Land registration fees: €400 to €800 depending on property value and registration type.
- Property valuation fees: €150 to €300 for mortgage or lender requirements.
- Surveyor fees: €500 to €1,000 depending on the level of detail required for the structure.
- Annual home insurance: €400 to €700 depending on the level of contents and buildings cover.
Forum Talk
What people are saying about this area
- Residents frequently discuss the charm and community feel of the historic cottage developments near Rathfarnham Village.
- Local forums highlight the excellent proximity to major green spaces such as Marlay Park and St. Enda's Park.
- Commuters often share updates regarding local bus services like the 16, 74, and S6 routes connecting to the city centre and airport.
- Discussions in the area often revolve around the potential for extending and modernizing older properties while maintaining their character.
LifeFit Assessment
How well this property may suit your lifestyle
Family
7 areas- Young Children3/10
The property features only one bedroom, making it unsuitable for young children unless extensive extensions are built.
- Teenagers2/10
With a single bedroom and limited overall space spanning 79 square metres, this cottage lacks the necessary privacy and rooms for teenagers.
- Multi-generational Living1/10
The one-bedroom layout and restricted interior space completely rule out multi-generational living arrangements without major construction.
- Single Buyers9/10
A one-bedroom semi-detached cottage offering generous outdoor garden space represents an ideal footprint for a single buyer entering the market.
- Couples8/10
Well-suited for a couple looking for an entry-level home or a project, provided they do not require additional rooms right away.
- Empty Nesters7/10
The single-level living potential on the ground floor combined with a manageable overall footprint could appeal to empty nesters looking to downsize locally.
- Retirees6/10
While the single-bedroom layout works for retirement, the poor BER rating and potential need for energy upgrades might require additional effort and investment.
Work
3 areas- Remote Working7/10
The compact interior means remote workers might need to convert or extend space to establish a dedicated home office.
- Hybrid Commuting8/10
Good public transport links via nearby bus routes (16, 74, S6) facilitate hybrid commuting patterns into Dublin city centre.
- Retired7/10
Convenient proximity to village services supports retirement living, though energy efficiency updates are strongly advised given the F BER rating.
Practical
8 areas- Ageing in Place6/10
Features ground-floor living accommodation, but modifications would be necessary to ensure long-term accessibility and comfort.
- Low Maintenance5/10
While the footprint is small, the F-rated BER and potential need for extension or structural renovation mean ongoing maintenance requires attention.
- Secure Gated Entry2/10
The property offers off-street parking to the side but lacks a secure gated entry system.
- Minimalist Design6/10
The original cottage features traditional elements alongside compact spaces that suit a minimalist lifestyle before any expansion.
- Flexible Floor Plans8/10
Described as having enormous potential for extension and development, allowing buyers to customize the floor plan significantly.
- Heritage Home7/10
Retains charming character elements such as an original fireplace with tiled inset, appealing to historic cottage admirers.
- Ecological Setup2/10
The poor BER rating of F indicates high energy consumption and a significant need for green retrofitting.
- Outdoor areas9/10
Features a massive circa 65ft private sunny south-westerly facing rear patio and garden, offering exceptional outdoor space.
Interests
9 areas- Gardening9/10
A standout feature is the large, sunny, mature south-westerly facing rear garden spanning approximately 65 feet, offering exceptional gardening potential.
- Walking9/10
Proximity to popular local outdoor amenities including St Enda's Park and Marlay Park makes this an outstanding location for walking enthusiasts.
- Gym6/10
Standard suburban access to local fitness facilities, though buyers should investigate exact memberships and distances nearby.
- Cycling6/10
Fair cycling accessibility into the city and surrounding areas via connecting suburban roads, though cycle lane infrastructure varies.
- Golf7/10
The south Dublin location places several well-known golf clubs within a short driving radius.
- Fishing3/10
There are no notable local fishing rivers or lakes immediately adjacent to this suburban residential setting.
- Horse Riding4/10
While some equestrian facilities exist in the wider foothills of the Dublin mountains, they require transport to access.
- Water Sports2/10
Inland location means water sports require travel toward Dublin Bay or local reservoirs.
- Entertaining7/10
The expansive 65-foot south-westerly facing rear garden provides a wonderful hosting space for warm-weather entertaining, despite the modest indoor layout.
Lifestyle
5 areas- Quiet Living7/10
Situated between Grange Road and Whitechurch Road, the cottage benefits from private outdoor space, though buyers should verify local traffic levels.
- Rural Living3/10
Located in a built-up Dublin suburb close to Rathfarnham Village, this is decidedly an urban-suburban setting rather than rural.
- Village Living8/10
Being approximately one kilometre from Rathfarnham Village allows convenient access to local shops and community amenities.
- Coastal Living2/10
The location is landlocked in South Dublin, far away from any immediate coastal amenities.
- Urban Living8/10
Proximity to public transport services like the 16, 74, and S6 buses provides direct links to the city centre and Dublin Airport.
Social
6 areas- Community Involvement7/10
Proximity to Rathfarnham Village and established residential roads fosters opportunities to engage with local community groups.
- Café Culture7/10
Local shops and village amenities provide accessible café options within a short distance.
- Nightlife5/10
Suburban location offers limited local nightlife, requiring a trip into nearby urban hubs or the city centre for extensive options.
- Health/Wellness groups7/10
Proximity to large parks like Marlay and St Enda's supports outdoor wellness clubs and fitness groups.
- Networking Opportunities5/10
Mainly residential suburban setting with fewer direct professional networking venues compared to central business districts.
- Tech-Hub Connectivity6/10
Telephone and piped television services are available, but buyers should verify high-speed broadband availability for remote tech work.
Listing information
- Agent
- DNG Rathfarnham
- Phone
- 01 490 4666
- Current status
- active
- Published on HouseDelve
- 24 October 2026
- Correction
- Report an issue
HD-AF8457HouseDelve · 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.