
Apartment 96, Altan, Western Distributor Road, Knocknacarra, GalwayH91E392
€290,000
2 Bed~1 Bath~60 m²~BER C1
What you'll like:
- Turnkey condition: The apartment is presented in immaculate condition throughout, meaning a buyer can move in immediately without needing to undertake any initial renovations or redecoration works.
- Top floor positioning: Occupying the top floor of the block eliminates any overhead footsteps, ensuring a quieter living environment for the eventual occupant day and night.
- West facing aspect: The orientation captures optimal afternoon and evening sunlight, brightening the primary living areas and providing pleasant elevated views from the private balcony.
- Oversized private balcony: Being one of only four larger balconies in the entire block provides extra outdoor relaxation space which is a rare and desirable apartment feature.
- Convenient shopping proximity: Situated just a three-minute walk from the Gateway Shopping Centre, residents enjoy effortless access to major anchor stores like Dunnes Stores, Lidl, and B&Q.
- Established local amenities: The surrounding Knocknacarra neighborhood offers nearby hotels, popular bars, restaurants, and reputable schools, ensuring daily conveniences are well within reach.
- Proximity to Salthill: Coastal walks and recreational amenities in Salthill village are easily accessible from this location, greatly enhancing the lifestyle appeal for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Secure block entry: The development features a secure entrance system, offering peace of mind regarding controlled access and general residential security for occupants and visitors.
- Serviced elevator access: The inclusion of a building lift ensures effortless grocery transport and easy accessibility to the top floor for residents of all mobility levels.
- Dedicated parking included: The property comes with designated parking provisions, removing the daily stress of searching for a street space in busy residential areas.
- Spacious entrance hallway: The welcoming entry hall features practical timber flooring and a built-in hot press, providing essential storage space to keep living areas uncluttered.
- Integrated kitchen appliances: The kitchen comes equipped with built-in cabinetry and an integrated oven and hob, reducing immediate startup costs for a new owner.
- Bright living space: The open-plan layout connecting the living room and balcony maximizes natural light penetration, creating an inviting atmosphere for daily living and entertaining.
- Generous double bedrooms: Both bedrooms are well-proportioned doubles equipped with fitted wardrobes, offering ample clothing storage and comfortable sleeping quarters.
- Coved ceiling detailing: The inclusion of decorative ceiling coving throughout the primary rooms adds a subtle touch of traditional elegance to the modern apartment interior.
- Television connection points: Both bedrooms and the main living area feature dedicated TV points, providing flexible layout options for home entertainment setups.
- Strong rental appeal: The two-bedroom configuration and convenient west-side location make this an attractive proposition for long-term buy-to-let investors seeking steady tenant demand.
- Built-in wardrobe storage: Fitted wardrobes in each bedroom maximize the usable floor space and save buyers the expense of purchasing freestanding bedroom furniture.
- Manageable floor area: The compact 60-square-meter layout keeps routine cleaning and ongoing utility maintenance costs pleasantly low for single occupants or couples.
- Established residential pocket: Located within a quiet and well-maintained development off the Western Distributor Road, the property benefits from a settled community atmosphere.
But keep in mind:
- C1 energy rating: The C1 BER rating indicates moderate thermal efficiency, and the buyer should investigate potential upgrade costs for insulation or heating to improve energy performance.
- Electric heating system: The apartment relies on electric heating, which can result in higher utility bills compared to gas systems, requiring careful budgeting by the occupant.
- Management company fees: As an apartment within a managed block, annual service charges will apply, and the buyer must verify the current fee amounts and sinking fund status.
- Single bathroom setup: The property contains only one combined bathroom, which could create morning bottlenecks or prove inconvenient when hosting multiple overnight guests.
- Elevator dependency: Top-floor living relies entirely on the building lift, meaning any maintenance outages or mechanical breakdowns would temporarily restrict effortless upper-floor access.
- Potential stairwell congestion: Being a multi-story block with an elevator means shared corridors and stairwells might experience higher foot traffic during peak moving or delivery times.
- Balcony maintenance responsibility: The buyer should clarify whether the management company or individual owners hold responsibility for the structural upkeep of the oversized balconies.
- Parking space allocation: The exact proximity and security of the designated parking space should be verified to ensure it is conveniently located relative to the apartment block entrance.
- Noise from distributor road: While the development is quiet, its proximity to the Western Distributor Road warrants checking whether traffic noise is audible from the balcony.
- Limited expansion potential: The 60-square-meter footprint is fixed, meaning growing households cannot easily expand the living space and will eventually outgrow the property.
- External waste management: Buyers must check how communal bin storage is handled, including associated charges and rules regarding recycling separation within the development.
- Shared amenity wear and tear: Common areas such as hallways, lifts, and grounds depend on collective maintenance, so the buyer should review the management agent's track record.
- Window ventilation performance: The buyer should inspect the window seals and trickle vents to ensure adequate airflow and prevent condensation buildup in the west-facing rooms.
- Appliance age verification: Integrated kitchen appliances are present, but their operational age and condition should be checked to budget for potential early replacements.
- Water pressure check: The buyer's surveyor should test the hot water cylinder and shower pressure to ensure the bathroom plumbing functions adequately on the top floor.
- Bicycle storage provisions: It is unclear if secure, covered bicycle parking is available on-site, which is an important consideration for cycling commuters in Galway.
- Pet policy restrictions: The buyer should review the development house rules to confirm whether household pets are permitted within the apartment block.
- Insurance cost variations: Apartment buildings often require specific block insurance policies, and buyers should verify how these premiums are factored into annual service charges.
- Visitor parking availability: The development's capacity for guest parking should be investigated to ensure friends and family can park without causing obstruction or incurring fines.
- Future retrofit requirements: With changing environmental standards, a C1-rated property may require future capital investment to meet higher energy efficiency benchmarks over the coming decade.
Price positioning
?
- The asking price appears somewhat undervalued relative to recent local norms because it is listed slightly below what similar units in the immediate development have commanded, positioning it competitively for prospective buyers seeking a well-maintained property.
- Valuation signals such as floor area, layout efficiency, and general presentation support a competitive positioning, though the C1 energy rating and electric heating system introduce moderate utility cost signals that might temper aggressive pricing expectations.
- Strong local amenities, proximity to shopping centres, and the inclusion of a larger than average west-facing balcony could support this pricing level, while broader macroeconomic lending rules and interest rate sensitivities might undermine higher bids.
- Additional relevance stems from the strong overall demand for suburban two-bedroom apartments in this specific part of Galway, which generally ensures brisk market interest and reduces the likelihood of significant downward price corrections.
Build Analysis
What we know from similar construction types
- The property is a top-floor apartment constructed circa 2004, featuring a secure block with an elevator, which means buyers should investigate the management company's financial health, sinking fund status, and ongoing service charges.
- The apartment relies on electric heating, so prospective buyers should verify the efficiency of the current heating system and explore potential upgrades for improved comfort and lower energy use.
- As a top-floor unit with a west-facing balcony and elevated views, insulation standards and roof space maintenance should be reviewed via the building energy rating details and management company reports.
Heating cost*
Estimated expense to heat this property every year
- Estimated annual heating cost is approximately 800 to 1,100 euro
- This estimate accounts for the 60 square metre floor area and a C1 BER rating, combined with electric heating as indicated in the property details
Pollution Safe
9/10Environmental situation to investigate
- The development is situated in a predominantly residential and suburban area of Knocknacarra, well away from heavy industrial zones, major incinerators, or known large-scale active landfills.
- Any historical or localized environmental concerns should be independently verified during standard conveyancing checks.
Flood Safe
8/10Water overflow reports to follow up
- The property is located on the top floor of a modern apartment block, which significantly mitigates direct internal flood risk from surface water.
- Broad regional indicators suggest standard drainage infrastructure serves the Knocknacarra area, though local surface water pooling during extreme weather events should be investigated if purchasing in the wider region.
Recent Local Sales
Verified residential transactions published in the previous five years
Sales on the same street or estate
96 ALTAN, WESTERN DISTRIBUTOR RD, KNOCKNACARRA
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €335,000.00
107 ALTAN, DISTRIBUTOR RD, KNOCKNACARRA
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €270,000.00
1 ALTAN, WESTERN DISTRIBUTOR RD, KNOCKNACARRA
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €310,000.00
86 ALTAN, WESTERN DISTRIBUTOR ROAD, GALWAY
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €285,000.00
103 ALTAN, WESTERN DISTRIBUTOR RD, GALWAY
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €215,000.00
Recent sales in the wider Knocknacarra area
32 LEARGAN, BALLYMONEEN ROAD, KNOCKNACARRA
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €455,000.00
63 DRISIN, BALLYMONEEN RD, KNOCKNACARRA
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €271,500.00
37 MANOR CT, KNOCKNACARRA, GALWAY
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €382,000.00
NO.62 MAOILIN, BALLYMONEEN ROAD, KNOCKNACARRA
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €528,000.00
66 LEARGAN, BALLYMONEEN WEST, KNOCKNACARRA
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €472,000.00
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 2,900 euro
- Solicitor legal fees: approximately 1,500 to 2,500 euro excluding outlays
- Land registration fees: approximately 170 to 600 euro depending on the registration type
- Property valuation fees: approximately 150 to 300 euro
- Surveyor fees: approximately 400 to 800 euro for a structural survey
- Annual home insurance: approximately 350 to 600 euro depending on the policy and provider
Forum Talk
What people are saying about this area
- Residents in Knocknacarra frequently discuss the convenience of living near the Western Distributor Road, highlighting easy access to local amenities like the Gateway Shopping Centre.
- Local forums often mention traffic flow and congestion peak times along the Western Distributor Road and around roundabout junctions.
- Community discussions frequently praise the proximity to recreational spots such as Salthill village and local walking routes.
- Public transport links connecting Knocknacarra to Galway city centre are a common topic of conversation among residents, with generally positive feedback on frequency.
LifeFit Assessment
How well this property may suit your lifestyle
Family
7 areas- Young Children6/10
The 2-bedroom apartment offers a manageable space close to local primary and secondary schools, though families with very young children may miss having a private garden.
- Teenagers6/10
With two well-sized bedrooms and a convenient location near shopping and amenities in Knocknacarra, teenagers will appreciate the independence, though overall living space is compact at 60 m².
- Multi-generational Living3/10
A 60 m² layout with one bathroom and two bedrooms is generally too restricted for comfortable multi-generational living.
- Single Buyers9/10
This apartment is an excellent size for single buyers, featuring a ready-to-move-in condition, elevator access, and a central location near retail and transport links.
- Couples9/10
Ideal for a couple, the property provides two bedrooms, a bright living area, a west-facing balcony, and easy access to local amenities and Salthill village.
- Empty Nesters8/10
The top-floor apartment benefits from a secure block with a serviced lift, low-maintenance living, and pleasant elevated views, making it a strong option for downsizers.
- Retirees8/10
Features such as a secure building, lift access, and proximity to shopping and dining make this a comfortable and manageable home for retirees.
Work
3 areas- Remote Working8/10
The second bedroom provides a great option for a home office, and the bright living spaces support comfortable remote working.
- Hybrid Commuting7/10
Well connected via local roads and transport links to Galway city centre and major routes for hybrid workers.
- Retired8/10
Suits a retired lifestyle well due to the low-maintenance apartment format, secure block, and lift access.
Practical
8 areas- Heritage Home1/10
Constructed circa 2004, this is a modern apartment rather than a period or heritage property.
- Ageing in Place7/10
Benefit from a secure block with a serviced lift, though buyers should verify long-term accessibility features inside the apartment such as bathroom layout.
- Low Maintenance9/10
As a 60 m² apartment in a managed development, exterior maintenance and upkeep are kept to a minimum.
- Secure Gated Entry8/10
Positioned in a secure block with elevator access, offering good peace of mind for residents.
- Minimalist Design8/10
Clean layout, timber flooring, and efficient room distribution lend themselves well to a minimalist aesthetic.
- Flexible Floor Plans6/10
Standard 2-bedroom apartment layout offers limited major structural flexibility, though the second bedroom doubles easily as an office.
- Ecological Setup6/10
Holds a C1 BER rating; buyers may wish to investigate potential energy upgrades to improve efficiency further.
- Outdoor areas6/10
Features a west-facing balcony noted as one of the larger ones in the block with elevated views, compensating for the lack of a private garden.
Interests
9 areas- Gardening2/10
As a top-floor apartment with a balcony rather than a private garden, opportunities for traditional gardening are very limited.
- Walking8/10
Great walkability to the nearby Gateway Shopping Centre, local hospitality venues, schools, and easy reach of Salthill village.
- Gym7/10
Proximity to local amenities and hotels in the area provides reasonable access to fitness facilities.
- Cycling7/10
The location allows for manageable cycling routes toward Salthill and Galway city, though buyers should verify bike storage facilities in the development.
- Golf6/10
Reasonable access to regional golf courses around Galway, making it a viable base for golfers.
- Fishing5/10
While coastal and river fishing spots in the wider Galway region are accessible, the property itself is strictly residential and suburban.
- Horse Riding4/10
Equestrian facilities are generally located further out in the countryside rather than immediate suburban Knocknacarra.
- Water Sports8/10
Being within easy reach of Salthill makes this a convenient location for those interested in swimming, sailing, and other coastal water sports.
- Entertaining7/10
Features a bright open-plan feel, a kitchen-dining area, and one of the larger west-facing balconies in the block for hosting small gatherings.
Lifestyle
5 areas- Quiet Living7/10
Situated in a well-maintained development described as quiet, and positioned on the top floor, though urban and suburban sounds can still be expected.
- Rural Living2/10
This is a suburban apartment setting close to shopping centres and main roads rather than a rural environment.
- Village Living7/10
Proximity to local amenities, hotels, bars, and Salthill village provides a community feel within a suburban context.
- Coastal Living7/10
The property is within easy reach of Salthill and the coast, offering coastal lifestyle benefits while maintaining an urban-suburban location.
- Urban Living8/10
Located in Knocknacarra with shopping, dining, and public transport links close by, offering great convenience for urban-leaning residents.
Social
6 areas- Community Involvement7/10
A well-established development with local schools, sports clubs, and community amenities nearby.
- Café Culture7/10
Good local dining and café options within reach, particularly with Salthill village nearby.
- Nightlife6/10
Local bars and restaurants are accessible nearby, though more extensive nightlife options require travelling into Galway city centre.
- Health/Wellness groups7/10
Proximity to local community hubs and amenities supports participation in pilates & stretching and fitness classes.
- Networking Opportunities6/10
Mainly residential setting, though its proximity to Galway city aids professional networking.
- Tech-Hub Connectivity7/10
Good connectivity to Galway's employment and technology sectors via established transport routes.
Listing information
- Agent
- Sherry FitzGerald Galway
- Phone
- 091 569 123
- Published on HouseDelve
- 25 September 2026
- Correction
- Report an issue
HD-470A16HouseDelve · 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.