
4 Willowbank, Cluain Ard, Cobh, CorkP24RH74
€225,000
2 Bed~1 Bath~41 m²~BER C
What you'll like:
- Affordable asking price: Listed at €225,000, this property presents an accessible entry point for first-time buyers or investors looking to break into the market.
- Private rear yard: The property benefits from an enclosed private rear yard with direct access, offering valuable outdoor space rarely found in apartments.
- Ground floor convenience: Being a ground-floor apartment eliminates the need for daily stair climbing, making it exceptionally accessible for all age groups.
- Owner occupied status: Having been owner-occupied, the property is likely to have been better cared for and maintained than typical rental investments.
- Two double bedrooms: The layout includes two double bedrooms, providing versatile accommodation options for couples, small families, or shared living arrangements.
- Open plan layout: The bright open-plan kitchen and living area creates a sociable, modern living environment tailored to contemporary lifestyles.
- Gas fired heating: Equipped with gas-fired central heating, the home ensures efficient and controllable warmth throughout the cooler winter months.
- Manageable floor area: The 41 square metre footprint offers a compact, easy-to-clean home that keeps domestic chores and utility bills minimal.
- Low management fees: The annual management fee of approximately €650 helps keep ongoing ownership costs remarkably reasonable compared to similar developments.
- Established residential development: Situated within the popular Cluain Ard development, the property benefits from a settled neighborhood feel and a strong community.
- Ample development parking: The development features ample parking spaces within its grounds, ensuring convenient vehicle accommodation for residents and visitors.
- Proximity to town: The property is conveniently positioned close to Cobh town centre, putting shops, cafes, and everyday services within easy reach.
- Strong rail connectivity: Cobh Railway Station provides regular and reliable commuter connections directly to Cork City, easing daily travel requirements.
- Harbour location appeal: Located in a thriving harbour town, residents can enjoy scenic coastal surroundings and rich local maritime heritage attractions.
- Solid rental demand: Two-bedroom properties in this region maintain consistent popularity among tenants, bolstering the asset's long-term investment potential.
- Commuter friendly positioning: The location offers practical access to the wider Cork Harbour commercial zones and surrounding employment hubs.
- Readily maintainable asset: The modest scale and structured management make this an ideal hands-off investment or lock-up-and-go residence.
- Immediate outdoor connection: Direct access from the interior to the back yard extends the functional living space during warmer seasonal months.
- Established local amenities: Nearby schools, sporting facilities, and healthcare services ensure all essential lifestyle requirements are met locally.
- Clear viewing recommendation: The property is recommended for viewing by appointment, indicating an active sales process ready for interested buyers.
But keep in mind:
- Compact floor area: Measuring only 41 square metres, the overall living space is quite tight and may feel restricted for buyers with lots of belongings.
- C energy rating: The C energy rating indicates that thermal efficiency could be improved, potentially resulting in higher-than-necessary winter heating bills.
- Management company obligations: Buyers must verify the financial health, sinking fund status, and exact coverage included in the annual €650 management fee.
- Future service charge hikes: Management fees are subject to future inflation and estate repairs, which could increase holding costs over time.
- Limited expansion potential: Due to its apartment structure and fixed footprint, structural extensions or significant layout alterations are virtually impossible.
- Covenants and restrictions: Development rules enforced by the management company may restrict pet ownership, parking rights, or exterior modifications.
- Potential noise transference: Ground-floor living means potential susceptibility to overhead noise from occupants residing in upper-level apartments.
- High price per square meter: At €225,000 for 41 square meters, the cost per square meter reflects a premium typical of smaller footprint properties.
- Compact kitchen workspace: Open-plan layouts in smaller apartments often feature restricted counter space and smaller appliances, limiting culinary flexibility.
- Single bathroom constraint: Having only one bathroom serving both bedrooms could create bottlenecks during busy morning routines for multiple occupants.
- Shared grounds maintenance: External grounds rely entirely on the management contractor's responsiveness, meaning common areas are outside individual owner control.
- Resale market liquidity: Smaller apartments can sometimes experience longer selling timelines during economic downturns compared to detached family houses.
- Ventilation and damp checks: Buyers should carefully inspect the property for any signs of condensation or poor ventilation common in compact ground-floor units.
- Storage limitations: The absence of a large attic or dedicated external storage shed means belongings must be kept inside the living envelope.
- Insurance cost variations: Apartment buildings often require specific block insurance policies, which buyers should check for any recent premium spikes.
- Proximity to access routes: Depending on its exact block placement within Cluain Ard, traffic or pedestrian noise from nearby estate roads might impact privacy.
- Broadband speed verification: Prospective buyers should independently verify the maximum broadband speeds available at this specific address for remote work needs.
- Refuse management setup: Buyers should investigate how waste disposal and bin storage are organized within the development to ensure hygiene and convenience.
- Commuter peak congestion: Transport links into Cork City via road or rail can experience heavy congestion during peak morning and evening rush hours.
- Unyielding structural layout: Interior walls may be load-bearing or enclose crucial services, restricting future customization of the floor plan.
Price positioning
?
- Recent transaction data for comparable two-bedroom multi-unit and apartment properties within the same Cluain Ard residential development indicate a broader market trajectory that aligns with the asking price level.
- Historical transaction registries show that the specific subject property previously changed hands for €157,000 in May 2020, reflecting general residential appreciation trends across the local Cobh market since that period.
- Alternative nearby property transactions within the development, such as apartment units on Willowbank, have historically recorded sales varying between €178,000 and €222,000 depending on exact sizing and market timing.
- The asking price of €225,000 appears broadly consistent with recent secondary market activity for similarly sized accommodation options in this established commuter town location near Cork.
Build Analysis
What we know from similar construction types
- The property is a ground-floor apartment spanning approximately 41 m² with a practical layout comprising two double bedrooms, a main bathroom, and an open-plan kitchen and living area.
- Features gas-fired central heating and a private enclosed rear yard accessed directly from the apartment.
- Located within an established residential development with an annual management fee of approximately €650.
- Buyers should investigate the specific details of the management company, including sinking fund balances, coverage of structural insurance, and rules regarding maintenance responsibilities for common areas and the private rear yard boundary.
Heating cost*
Estimated expense to heat this property every year
- €600 to €900 annually
- Estimated for a compact 41 m² ground-floor apartment with a C energy rating using gas-fired central heating. Because the floor area is relatively small, total energy consumption for space and water heating is lower than average, though exact costs will vary based on individual usage habits, winter weather severity, and energy tariff rates.
Pollution Safe
8/10Environmental situation to investigate
- The property is located in an established residential suburban setting within Cobh, generally remote from major heavy industrial plants or active heavy landfills.
- Buyers should verify local environmental reports or legacy industrial histories related to the wider Cork Harbour port and industrial zones as part of standard due diligence.
Flood Safe
8/10Water overflow reports to follow up
- Cluain Ard is situated on elevated ground relative to coastal and tidal areas of Cobh, providing a strong natural buffer against typical coastal flooding phenomena.
- Localised surface water drainage during extreme weather events should be visually checked or investigated by a surveyor to ensure complete peace of mind.
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 Cluain Ard area
7 RIVERSIDE WHARF, WEST BEACH, COBH
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €204,000.00
BALLARD HILL, MARINO, COBH
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €337,500.00
37 EATON HEIGHTS, COBH, CORK
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €365,000.00
COPPER BEECHES, WHITEPOINT, COBH
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €400,000.00
45 BEECHWOOD COURT, CLUAIN ARD, COBH
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €282,000.00
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
4 WILLOWBANK, CLUAIN ARD, COBH
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €157,000.00
Buyer fees*
Associated expenses guide
- Stamp duty: €2,250 (calculated at 1% of the €225,000 purchase price for residential property)
- Solicitor legal fees: €1,500 to €3,000 plus 23% VAT, depending on the firm and conveyancing complexity
- Land registration fees: €400 to €800 covering property deeds and any mortgage registration with the Property Registration Authority
- Property valuation fees: €150 to €300 typically required if obtaining mortgage financing
- Surveyor fees: €300 to €600 for a structural or pre-purchase building survey
- Annual home insurance: €250 to €600 depending on the policy level and provider
Forum Talk
What people are saying about this area
- Locals in Cobh frequently discuss the ongoing demand for smaller, manageable homes and apartments for first-time buyers and downsizers.
- Residents highlight the convenience of the Cluain Ard development for its proximity to local schools, shops, and community facilities.
- Commuters on community forums often note the reliable rail connectivity from Cobh Railway Station into Cork City.
- Discussions around the area often touch upon general property market trends, noting steady interest in well-maintained two-bedroom units with outdoor space.
LifeFit Assessment
How well this property may suit your lifestyle
Family
7 areas- Young Children4/10
The apartment features two bedrooms and a private rear yard, but with a floor area of 41 m², space is extremely limited for young children who require room to play and store belongings.
- Teenagers3/10
At 41 m² with only one bathroom and two double bedrooms, a household with teenagers would find living conditions cramped and lacking in personal privacy.
- Multi-generational Living1/10
A 41 m² two-bedroom ground-floor apartment is completely unsuitable for multi-generational living due to the lack of space and separation.
- Single Buyers10/10
This well-maintained two-bedroom ground-floor apartment offers an ideal, manageable footprint and a private rear yard, making it an exceptional choice for a single buyer.
- Couples9/10
With two double bedrooms, gas-fired central heating, and a private rear yard, couples will find this property comfortable, cozy, and easy to maintain.
- Empty Nesters8/10
The ground-floor configuration and private yard make this an appealing option for empty nesters looking to downsize to a low-maintenance home close to town amenities.
- Retirees8/10
Being a ground-floor apartment with a manageable size and no stairs to navigate internally, it suits retirees well, though buyers should verify accessibility features such as step-free entry points.
Work
3 areas- Remote Working6/10
The second bedroom can double as a home office space, though the compact 41 m² total floor area means workspace options are somewhat restricted.
- Hybrid Commuting8/10
Cobh Railway Station provides regular connections to Cork City, making hybrid commuting practical for professionals working in the city.
- Retired8/10
The single-level ground-floor layout and manageable upkeep make it well-suited for retirees seeking convenience and low maintenance.
Practical
8 areas- Ageing in Place8/10
Being a ground-floor apartment eliminates internal stairs, making it easier to manage as one ages, though buyers should check exterior entry steps.
- Low Maintenance9/10
With a compact 41 m² floor area, a management company handling communal upkeep (annual fee approx. €650), and a small private yard, maintenance duties are minimal.
- Secure Gated Entry4/10
The listing mentions ample parking within the development but does not specify secure gated entry, so buyers should verify security features.
- Minimalist Design8/10
The open-plan kitchen and living area lend themselves well to a streamlined, minimalist interior design approach due to the modest square footage.
- Flexible Floor Plans5/10
At 41 m², the floor plan is compact and fixed in its layout, offering limited flexibility for major reconfiguration.
- Heritage Home2/10
This is a modern residential development apartment rather than a traditional period or heritage home.
- Ecological Setup5/10
The property features a C energy rating and gas-fired central heating, which is standard but leaves room for future energy efficiency upgrades.
- Outdoor areas6/10
Features a private enclosed rear yard accessed directly from the apartment, providing a valuable private outdoor space for a ground-floor property.
Interests
9 areas- Gardening5/10
The property includes a private enclosed rear yard, offering space for potted plants and container gardening, though lacking a traditional lawn or large garden.
- Walking8/10
Conveniently positioned for access to Cobh town centre, local amenities, and scenic harbour walks nearby.
- Gym6/10
Cobh offers local sporting and fitness facilities, though access to comprehensive gym options may require traveling toward the town centre or wider area.
- Cycling6/10
The area provides reasonable local cycling routes, though prospective buyers should verify local cycling infrastructure and hills typical of Cobh.
- Golf6/10
Cobh and the surrounding Cork Harbour area offer local golf course options within a reasonable driving distance.
- Fishing7/10
Given its harbour town location, fishing enthusiasts will find good coastal and marine access points nearby.
- Horse Riding4/10
Equestrian facilities are typically found further out in the rural countryside rather than immediate town locations.
- Water Sports8/10
The property's location in Cobh Harbour provides excellent proximity for sailing, boating, and various water sports activities.
- Entertaining5/10
The open-plan kitchen and living area combined with a private rear yard allow for small gatherings, but the 41 m² floor area restricts large-scale entertaining.
Lifestyle
5 areas- Quiet Living6/10
Located in an established residential development in Cobh, it generally offers a peaceful environment, though being part of an apartment complex means some shared neighborhood activity is expected.
- Rural Living2/10
The property is situated within a residential development in the thriving harbour town of Cobh, offering an urban/suburban setting rather than rural seclusion.
- Village Living7/10
Cobh provides a strong community feel with local shops, cafés, and amenities within reach, offering a close-knit town atmosphere.
- Coastal Living8/10
Situated in the thriving harbour town of Cobh, the property benefits from close proximity to coastal waters and scenic maritime surroundings.
- Urban Living7/10
While not a city centre location, it offers convenient access to town amenities and regular transport connections to Cork City.
Social
6 areas- Community Involvement7/10
Cobh is an established town with an active community, local clubs, and regular social groups.
- Café Culture7/10
Proximity to Cobh town centre ensures easy access to a selection of local cafés, restaurants, and everyday social spots.
- Nightlife5/10
Local pubs and dining options exist in Cobh, but extensive nightlife options will require traveling into Cork City.
- Health/Wellness groups6/10
Local community and wellness groups are accessible within the town, supporting pilates & stretching or similar fitness classes.
- Networking Opportunities5/10
Local professional networking is limited compared to central Cork City, though transit links make commuting to city hubs viable.
- Tech-Hub Connectivity6/10
Good transport connectivity to Cork City aids tech workers, though buyers should verify local broadband speeds for remote tech roles.
Listing information
- Agent
- Agent details not available.
- Published on HouseDelve
- 2 September 2026
- Correction
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HD-D338B3HouseDelve · Republic of Ireland* Estimate — not advice. Actual costs and outcomes can vary materially. Obtain current quotations and professional advice before making financial or property decisions.