
4 Leslie Avenue, Dalkey, County DublinA96DX36
€594,950
2 Bed~1 Bath~75 m²~BER G
What you'll like:
- Prime Dalkey location: Situated on Leslie Avenue within easy walking distance of the bustling town center, offering immediate access to cafes, restaurants, and shops.
- Exceptional coastal proximity: Located just a short stroll from both Coliemore Harbour and Bullock Harbour, providing incredible opportunities for scenic walks and sea swimming.
- Excellent transport links: Conveniently positioned approximately five minutes on foot from the local DART station, ensuring fast and reliable commutes to Dublin city center.
- Substantial renovation potential: The property presents a rare opportunity for a buyer to completely modernise, reconfigure, and tailor the interior spaces to their personal taste.
- Scope for future extension: Offers significant potential to expand the existing footprint, subject to obtaining the necessary planning permission from local authorities.
- Character 1930s charm: Retains wonderful period features including high ceilings, well-proportioned rooms, and charming architectural details throughout this unique cottage dwelling.
- Flexible ground floor layout: Features a dual-aspect second reception room, formerly a bedroom, equipped with a lovely ornate open fireplace and plenty of natural light.
- Generous bedroom proportions: Includes a spacious main bedroom on the first floor complete with fitted storage and attractive painted wooden floorboards.
- Outdoor space availability: Benefits from both front and rear gardens, providing dedicated outdoor areas that can be landscaped to create private sanctuaries.
- Optional parking potential: Includes the intriguing possibility to create off-street parking to the front of the property, subject to securing local planning permission.
- Proximity to quality schools: Positioned very close to established educational institutions such as the nearby Loreto School, making it convenient for families.
- Access to coastal villages: Within easy reach of the neighbouring villages of Glasthule and Sandycove, known for their eclectic independent shops and artisan cafes.
- Direct airport connectivity: The nearby Aircoach service provides a highly convenient and direct public transport connection straight to Dublin Airport.
- Unique upper-level access: The first-floor bathroom provides direct access onto a flat roof area above the front room, offering interesting spatial design possibilities.
- Established residential neighborhood: Situated in one of County Dublin's most desirable and prestigious addresses, ensuring long-term desirability and community appeal.
- Natural light throughout: Features well-placed windows including a neat landing window and large rear-facing glass that brighten the core interior spaces.
- Manageable floor area: Extending to approximately 75 square meters, the layout provides a comfortable canvas that avoids excessive upkeep while remaining surprisingly spacious.
- Dual-aspect reception room: The front ground floor room benefits from windows on multiple sides, enhancing the brightness and airy feel of the interior.
- Rear garden length: The back garden stretches to approximately 8.2 meters in length, offering a practical space for outdoor dining and gardening projects.
- Independent outdoor access: The rear garden features a convenient side entrance, allowing for easier maintenance, bike storage, and contractor access during renovations.
But keep in mind:
- Extremely poor BER rating: The property holds a G energy rating, which indicates severe energy inefficiency and will necessitate a comprehensive, costly thermal upgrade.
- Extensive modernisation required: The entire dwelling is in need of substantial work, meaning buyers must budget heavily for complete interior and structural refurbishment.
- Unconventional downstairs shower: A tiled shower is cleverly but awkwardly positioned directly beneath the stairs inside the main sitting room space.
- Neglected rear garden space: The back garden is currently in serious need of attention and complete landscaping to become a usable outdoor amenity.
- Uncertain planning outcomes: Any future plans to extend, alter the layout, or add off-street parking rely entirely on securing planning permission, which is never guaranteed.
- Cement floor finishes: The second reception room features a basic cement floor that will require leveling, insulation, and new finished flooring installation.
- Roof terrace structural load: The direct access from the bathroom onto the front roof area should be professionally inspected to ensure it is rated for safe recreational use.
- Outdated bathroom suite: The fully tiled first-floor bathroom contains a characterful but dated three-piece suite that will likely require immediate replacement.
- Lack of integrated parking: Currently offers no off-street parking, meaning residents must rely on on-street options in an area where parking is at a premium.
- Renovation living disruption: Due to the extent of modernisation required, the property is likely uninhabitable during construction, adding temporary relocation costs for the buyer.
- Hidden defect risks: Older 1930s properties often harbor hidden issues such as outdated wiring, lead piping, or dampness that should be thoroughly investigated by surveyors.
- Subfloor ventilation checks: The ground floors require careful professional evaluation to check for potential rising damp or inadequate subfloor ventilation common in older homes.
- Roof condition verification: Buyers should commission a detailed structural survey to assess the remaining lifespan and overall condition of the roof timbers and coverings.
- Window thermal performance: Existing windows likely lack modern double glazing, contributing to the poor energy rating and requiring full replacement for comfort.
- Heating system evaluation: The presence of a freestanding gas cooker and older heating elements suggests the central heating infrastructure needs a complete overhaul.
- Storage limitations: While some fitted storage exists, overall built-in wardrobe space is limited, which may restrict efficient storage without custom joinery.
- Staircase safety review: The solid timber staircase rising from the central hallway should be checked for compliance with modern building regulations and safety standards.
- Boundary wall condition: The walled boundary surrounding the back garden should be inspected for structural integrity and potential repair requirements.
- Plumbing system overhaul: The configuration featuring a sink under the stairs and a corner shower indicates the plumbing layout is unorthodox and needs modernizing.
- Total project cost uncertainty: Estimating the final cost of bringing this G-rated, unmodernised cottage up to modern standards carries high financial risk for inexperienced renovators.
Price positioning
?
- The asking price appears somewhat undervalued relative to surrounding street norms, primarily because it is listed at a notable discount compared to established local street transactions, reflecting its requirement for substantial refurbishment.
- Valuation signals indicate that while the baseline asking price is modest for Dalkey, buyers must factor in considerable capital expenditure to address the exceptionally poor energy efficiency rating and outdated interior layout.
- Support for this price point rests heavily on its prime coastal location and potential for future extension or modernization, whereas factors such as severe damp risks or prohibitive renovation costs could undermine this investment.
- Relevant market dynamics show that character properties in this specific neighborhood consistently command strong buyer interest when upgraded, making the current entry figure attractive for purchasers seeking value-add opportunities.
Build Analysis
What we know from similar construction types
- The property is a 1930s character home (affectionately known as Tiny Cottage) extending to approximately 75 square meters, requiring comprehensive modernisation and refurbishment throughout.
- The layout has evolved over time, featuring a ground floor reception room that was originally a second bedroom, an extended kitchen to the rear, and a shower cleverly positioned beneath the stairs.
- There is mention of a generous open area above the second reception room and direct access from the first-floor bathroom onto a roof area, which a buyer should verify for proper structural integrity, waterproofing, and planning compliance.
- Given the G BER rating and older vintage of the building, a buyer should investigate potential issues regarding damp, insulation, ventilation, and the condition of the electrical and heating systems.
- The listing highlights significant potential for reconfiguration, extension, and creating off-street parking to the front, all of which are subject to obtaining the necessary planning permission (S.P.P.).
Retrofit Cost*
Possible renovating / insulating expenditure
- Given the G BER rating and the 1930s construction of the property, a deep retrofit is essential to bring the energy efficiency to a modern standard.
- Estimated costs for a comprehensive deep retrofit—including external or internal wall insulation, roof insulation, window and door replacements, installation of a modern heat pump system, and airtightness measures—would likely range between 50,000 and 80,000 euros, depending on the extent of structural alterations and finishes chosen.
Heating cost*
Estimated expense to heat this property every year
- Estimated annual heating cost: €2,200 to €2,800 per year.
- Explanation: Given the property has a poor BER rating of G and a floor area of 75 square metres, energy efficiency is likely very low, resulting in significantly higher than average heating costs until insulation and modern heating systems are installed.
Pollution Safe
9/10Environmental situation to investigate
- The location appears largely free from heavy industrial pollution concerns, being situated in a predominantly residential coastal suburb.
- Buyers should verify local records regarding any historical waste sites or legacy industrial uses in the broader Dublin coastal zone, though no immediate heavy industrial hazards are apparent.
Flood Safe
8/10Water overflow reports to follow up
- The property is positioned above the immediate coastline in an established inland suburban street, suggesting a relatively low likelihood of direct tidal flooding.
- Surface water drainage during heavy rainfall should be checked as part of standard pre-purchase surveys, given general urban drainage considerations in coastal areas.
Recent Local Sales
Verified residential transactions published in the previous five years
Sales on the same street or estate
7A LESLIE AVENUE, DALKEY, CO. DUBLIN
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €835,000.00
7 LESLIE AVE, DALKEY, DUBLIN
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €710,000.00
Recent sales in the wider Dalkey area
1A WHITE'S VILLAS, DALKEY, CO. DUBLIN
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €560,000.00
38 ULVERTON RD, DALKEY, DUBLIN
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €1,782,500.00
CASABLANCA, ARDEEVIN RD, DALKEY
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €2,200,000.00
5 KINTYRE, PILOT VIEW, DALKEY
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €865,000.00
18 CRAIGLANDS, ARDEEVIN ROAD, DALKEY
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €640,000.00
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 €5,950 to €6,000 based on the asking price of €594,950 for a residential property under one million euro.
- Solicitor legal fees: roughly €1,500 to €3,000 plus outlays and VAT.
- Land registration fees: approximately €600 to €800 depending on the property value and registration type.
- Property valuation fees: around €150 to €250 if required by a mortgage lender.
- Surveyor fees: approximately €400 to €800 depending on the level of detail required, which is particularly important to investigate given the property requires modernisation and has a G BER rating.
- Annual home insurance: roughly €400 to €700 depending on the policy coverage and the property's age and condition.
Forum Talk
What people are saying about this area
- Residents frequently discuss the vibrant village atmosphere, highlighting local cafes, restaurants, and regular community events in Dalkey.
- Transport links are a common topic on local forums, with praise for the proximity of the DART station and convenient bus connections.
- Coastal amenities such as Coliemore Harbour and Bullock Harbour receive positive mentions for sea swimming, walking routes, and scenic views of Dublin Bay.
- Local property discussions often focus on the strong demand for character homes and the potential for renovation or extension subject to planning permission.
- Community groups occasionally share updates on local schools, including Loreto School, and family-friendly amenities in the surrounding area.
LifeFit Assessment
How well this property may suit your lifestyle
Family
7 areas- Young Children5/10
The property requires substantial modernisation and has a G BER rating, meaning families with young children would need to invest in thermal upgrades. However, the enclosed rear garden and proximity to local schools offer a strong family foundation.
- Teenagers6/10
Located just five minutes on foot from the Dalkey DART station and close to local amenities, teenagers would enjoy good independence. The house itself has a traditional layout that might feel tight for growing teens without reconfiguration.
- Multi-generational Living4/10
Offering two bedrooms and 75 square metres of space with a quirky layout—including a shower under the stairs—the property is relatively compact for multiple generations, though extension potential exists subject to planning permission.
- Single Buyers7/10
A fantastic project for a single buyer looking to break into the Dalkey market, customise a 1930s home, and take advantage of development potential, though major renovation works should be factored in.
- Couples7/10
Couples will appreciate the character of the 1930s cottage and its prime location near Dalkey Town, Coliemore Harbour, and excellent transport links, provided they are prepared to tackle modernisation and a G BER rating.
- Empty Nesters6/10
The manageable footprint of 75 square metres appeals to empty nesters, but the need for significant modernisation, potential roof-level access works, and a G BER rating require careful consideration.
- Retirees5/10
While the proximity to Dalkey Town, local harbours, and public transport is ideal for retirees, the property's current layout, stairs arrangement, and poor BER rating mean modifications would likely be necessary for comfortable long-term living.
Work
3 areas- Remote Working6/10
The property offers flexible rooms that could serve as a home office, though buyers should verify broadband speeds and connectivity standards.
- Hybrid Commuting8/10
With Dalkey DART station approximately five minutes away on foot and local bus services operating regularly, commuting to Dublin city centre is very convenient.
- Retired7/10
The area provides a wonderful community and accessible amenities for retirees, though the house itself will require renovation work to suit long-term accessibility needs.
Practical
8 areas- Ageing in Place4/10
The current layout features a ground floor shower tucked under the stairs and bedrooms upstairs, which may pose challenges for ageing in place without significant adaptation.
- Low Maintenance3/10
With a G BER rating, a garden in need of attention, and a 1930s structure requiring comprehensive modernisation, this property will demand ongoing maintenance and capital investment.
- Secure Gated Entry2/10
The property is an open-access street-front cottage with potential for off-street parking subject to planning permission, but currently lacks gated security.
- Minimalist Design4/10
The home is defined by its traditional 1930s character, high ceilings, and distinct rooms rather than open-plan minimalist aesthetics.
- Flexible Floor Plans8/10
The property offers considerable scope to modernise, reconfigure, and potentially extend (subject to planning permission), making it highly adaptable.
- Heritage Home8/10
Built in the 1930s and affectionately known as 'Tiny Cottage', the property retains charming period features, high ceilings, and historic character.
- Ecological Setup1/10
The home carries a G BER rating, indicating poor energy efficiency that will require substantial thermal upgrades and retrofitting.
- Outdoor areas5/10
Both front and rear gardens provide outdoor space and potential for extension or parking (subject to planning permission), but the back garden currently requires significant work.
Interests
9 areas- Gardening4/10
The property includes both front and rear gardens, but the back garden is currently in need of considerable work and attention.
- Walking10/10
The location is a walker's paradise, being minutes away from Dalkey Town, local harbours, and scenic coastal pathways.
- Gym6/10
While local fitness facilities can be accessed in the surrounding areas, the home itself lacks dedicated indoor space for a comprehensive gym setup without rearranging rooms.
- Cycling6/10
The coastal roads and surrounding south County Dublin areas offer scenic cycling routes, though cyclists should note traffic conditions in the bustling village centre.
- Golf6/10
Several well-known golf clubs are accessible within south County Dublin, making it a convenient base for golfers.
- Fishing8/10
Proximity to Coliemore and Bullock Harbours provides excellent local spots for sea fishing and coastal maritime activities.
- Horse Riding3/10
Equestrian facilities are limited directly within this densely populated coastal suburban area.
- Water Sports9/10
Coliemore Harbour is a renowned local setting for sea swimming and various coastal water activities right on the doorstep.
- Entertaining6/10
The extended kitchen and reception rooms offer some entertaining space, but the layout would benefit from reconfiguration to host guests comfortably.
Lifestyle
5 areas- Quiet Living7/10
Situated on Leslie Avenue in Dalkey, the location generally offers a peaceful neighbourhood feel, though buyers should verify local noise levels given its proximity to town amenities.
- Rural Living2/10
This is a firmly urban/suburban setting in the heart of Dalkey rather than a rural environment.
- Village Living10/10
An exceptional location within easy walking distance of Dalkey Town, offering immediate access to local cafés, restaurants, shops, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
- Coastal Living9/10
Coliemore Harbour, Bullock Harbour, and the coastline are just a short distance away, providing fantastic opportunities for sea swimming, coastal walks, and views of Dublin Bay.
- Urban Living6/10
While suburban in character, the strong transport links via the DART and bus routes, alongside nearby commercial hubs and village conveniences, provide good urban connectivity.
Social
6 areas- Community Involvement8/10
Dalkey has a strong, active local community with numerous clubs, schools, and local events.
- Café Culture10/10
Dalkey Town and the neighbouring villages of Glasthule and Sandycove offer an exceptional selection of artisan cafés, independent shops, and eateries.
- Nightlife7/10
Renowned local pubs and restaurants in Dalkey create a vibrant yet relaxed evening atmosphere.
- Health/Wellness groups7/10
Proximity to the coast supports wellness activities like sea swimming, and local community hubs offer various health groups.
- Networking Opportunities6/10
While primarily residential and village-focused, easy transport links to Dublin provide broader professional networking reach.
- Tech-Hub Connectivity6/10
Good DART connectivity allows access to Dublin's tech hubs, though buyers should test local internet speeds inside the 1930s structure.
Listing information
- Agent
- Churches Estate Agent
- Phone
- 01 559 5000
- Published on HouseDelve
- 27 September 2026
- Correction
- Report an issue
HD-9B4C56HouseDelve · 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.