
Baunaughra, Rathdowney, LaoisR32V8P7
€250,000
3 Bed~2 Bath~166 m²
What you'll like:
- Generous floor area: The property offers a spacious 166 square meters of living space, providing ample room for a growing family to live comfortably without feeling cramped.
- Expansive plot size: Sitting on approximately 2 acres of land, the property provides extraordinary privacy, outdoor freedom, and numerous lifestyle opportunities for gardening or keeping animals.
- Detached garage included: A substantial detached garage measuring 7m x 4m offers exceptional additional storage, a secure workshop, or dedicated space for hobbies and DIY projects.
- Ground floor bedroom: Having a spacious downstairs bedroom provides convenient single-level living options and excellent accessibility for guests, family members, or aging-in-place requirements.
- Ensuite bathroom convenience: The ground floor bedroom benefits from an attached ensuite bathroom, enhancing daily privacy and comfort for residents or visiting family members.
- Dedicated utility room: A large utility room keeps laundry and bulky household equipment separate from the main kitchen area, maintaining a tidy and organized living environment.
- Flexible upstairs layout: The upper floor features two well-proportioned bedrooms and a family bathroom, creating a private sleeping zone that balances the active ground floor spaces well.
- Peaceful countryside setting: Located in a quiet rural area near Rathdowney, the home offers a tranquil escape from urban noise and a deeply relaxing natural environment.
- Strong privacy levels: The substantial two-acre footprint ensures the house is well set back from neighbors, creating a private haven surrounded by open countryside views.
- Versatile outdoor space: The extensive grounds offer limitless potential for landscaping, creating children play areas, or developing custom outdoor entertaining zones for summer gatherings.
- Accessible local amenities: The nearby town of Rathdowney provides a reliable range of shops, schools, pubs, and essential services within convenient driving distance from the rural retreat.
- Dormer architectural charm: The dormer bungalow design delivers character alongside smart architectural space utilization, combining traditional aesthetics with practical modern family accommodation needs.
- Ample parking provision: The generous surrounding site ensures there is plenty of off-road parking space available for multiple vehicles, visitors, or trailers and larger transport.
- Bright living areas: The layout incorporates a bright and comfortable living room designed to maximize natural light intake, creating a welcoming atmosphere for daily relaxation.
- Kitchen dining combination: The kitchen cum dining area acts as a central social hub for the household, making family meals and everyday entertaining straightforward and enjoyable.
- Future expansion potential: The expansive site and detached garage offer physical scope for future modifications, extensions, or outbuilding enhancements subject to necessary planning permissions.
- Rural lifestyle opportunity: Buyers can fully embrace a country lifestyle with space for hobby farming, keeping pets, or cultivating a substantial home vegetable garden on site.
- Solid detached footprint: Being a detached home means fewer noise transmission issues with neighbors and greater independence regarding property maintenance and structural modifications over time.
- Convenient regional positioning: The location allows easy access to surrounding towns and regional transport routes, making commuting or traveling to larger urban centers reasonably straightforward.
- Family friendly design: The combination of multiple reception options, a large garden, and multiple bathrooms is ideally configured to support the dynamic needs of modern family life.
But keep in mind:
- Missing BER rating: The Building Energy Rating was noted as exempt or not provided, meaning buyers must investigate the thermal efficiency and potential heating costs independently.
- Untested appliances warning: The selling agent explicitly states that appliances and fixtures have not been tested, requiring buyers to budget for potential replacements or repairs.
- Unverified service functionality: Services such as plumbing, heating, and electrical systems have not been verified by the agent, necessitating a thorough professional engineering survey before purchase.
- Rural septic reliance: Properties in rural areas typically rely on private septic tanks, meaning buyers must commission an independent inspection to verify current environmental and structural compliance.
- Private well dependency: Rural locations often rely on private well water supplies, requiring rigorous water quality testing and pump functionality checks during the pre-purchase due diligence phase.
- Potential retrofit costs: Without a documented energy rating, the home may require significant insulation or heating upgrades to achieve comfortable modern energy efficiency standards.
- Remote maintenance responsibilities: Owning a two-acre site involves continuous upkeep of boundaries, gardens, and detached structures, which can demand considerable time and ongoing financial investment.
- Driving dependency: The rural location means residents are entirely dependent on cars for daily commuting, school runs, and grocery shopping, increasing household transport expenses.
- Local market liquidity: Rural properties on large plots can sometimes have longer resale timelines compared to urban housing stock, impacting short-term property liquidity for future buyers.
- Weather exposure risks: Standalone rural homes on large open sites are often more exposed to high winds and severe weather, potentially increasing wear and tear on roofing.
- Boundary verification needed: Buyers should ensure their legal representative carefully verifies the exact two-acre folio boundaries and checks for any historical right-of-way access issues.
- Septic tank registration: If a private wastewater system is present, the buyer must verify that it is properly registered with local authorities to avoid potential legal complications.
- Potential insulation gaps: Dormer bungalows can sometimes feature complex roof angles that require careful inspection to ensure upper floor rooms are adequately insulated against heat loss.
- Limited public transport: The immediate area lacks robust public transport infrastructure, making private vehicles essential for all daily travel requirements for every household member.
- Oil heating reliance: Rural homes in this region frequently rely on oil-fired central heating systems, subjecting homeowners to volatile fuel price fluctuations during winter months.
- Drainage inspection required: The large garden site should be checked by a professional to ensure surface water drains effectively away from the foundations during heavy rainfall.
- Garage condition check: The 7m x 4m detached garage should be thoroughly inspected for roof integrity, dampness, and electrical safety before relying on it for storage or workshop use.
- Maintenance of long driveway: Depending on the set-back distance, maintaining a private driveway surface can add regular gravel or asphalt repair costs to the household budget.
- Broadband availability limits: High-speed fiber broadband may not be fully deployed in remote rural townlands, so buyers working from home must verify internet connection speeds.
- Agricultural surroundings impact: Proximity to farmland means potential seasonal noise, dust, or localized odors from agricultural machinery and livestock operations during peak farming periods.
Price positioning
?
Not enough reliable market evidence is available to position this asking price.
Build Analysis
What we know from similar construction types
- The property is a 3-bedroom dormer bungalow spanning 166 square metres on a c. 2-acre site, featuring a detached garage measuring approximately 7m x 4m.
- The BER is noted as Exempt in the description, so a buyer should verify the reason for exemption and check compliance with building regulations regarding insulation, heating systems, and ventilation.
- Given the rural location on a large 2-acre site, a buyer should investigate the status and condition of the private wastewater treatment system (septic tank) and water supply source.
- Potential buyers should verify planning permission and compliance for the house, the detached garage, and any historical alterations, as well as checking boundaries and title deeds for the c. 2-acre land plot.
Heating cost*
Estimated expense to heat this property every year
- Estimated annual heating cost: €2,000 to €2,800.
- Explanation: Since the BER rating is exempt or not provided and the floor area is 166 square metres across a dormer bungalow, heating costs may vary significantly. The buyer should verify the heating system type and overall energy efficiency during the survey process.
Pollution Safe
9/10Environmental situation to investigate
Flood Safe
8/10Water overflow reports to follow up
- The surrounding area generally features low apparent risk of widespread fluvial flooding based on regional topography, though localized surface water pooling after heavy rain should be investigated.
- Buyers are advised to check local flood maps and history for the specific site as part of their property survey.
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 Rathdowney area
12 THE GLEBE, RATHDOWNEY, PORTLAOISE
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €280,000.00
18 MOOREVILLE, RATHDOWNEY, LAOIS
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €285,000.00
NAOMH JUDE, CONOBORO RD, RATHDOWNEY
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €130,000.00
4 ST KIERANS PLACE, ERRILL, RATHDOWNEY
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €232,000.00
TARA, 15 MOORE ST, RATHDOWNEY
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €122,000.00
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 (€2,500) for properties up to €1 million.
- Solicitor legal fees: roughly €1,500 to €2,500 plus outlay and VAT.
- Land registration fees: around €400 to €700 depending on the property value and registration type.
- Property valuation fees: typically between €150 and €300.
- Surveyor fees: generally range from €500 to €1,000 depending on the depth of the survey.
- Annual home insurance: estimated between €400 and €800 per year.
Forum Talk
What people are saying about this area
- Local residents in the Rathdowney area frequently discuss the peaceful rural lifestyle and the strong sense of community in County Laois.
- Community forums often highlight the convenience of local amenities in Rathdowney while emphasizing the need for reliable transport links for commuting.
- Discussions on rural properties in Laois frequently mention the appeal of large garden spaces and detached outbuildings for hobby farming or home working.
- Local groups often share updates on community events, sporting facilities, and regional infrastructure improvements across the county.
LifeFit Assessment
How well this property may suit your lifestyle
Family
7 areas- Young Children8/10
The property features an extensive 2-acre site and a spacious 3-bedroom dormer bungalow layout, offering plenty of safe, enclosed outdoor space for young children to play.
- Teenagers7/10
With three well-proportioned bedrooms and a detached garage, there is adequate personal space and hobby room for teenagers, though the rural location may require transport for social activities.
- Multi-generational Living7/10
The inclusion of a ground floor bedroom with an ensuite bathroom provides excellent single-level accommodation options suitable for older family members.
- Single Buyers5/10
The asking price of €250,000 is accessible, but the remote countryside setting and maintenance associated with a 2-acre site might be more than a single buyer seeking low upkeep desires.
- Couples8/10
A wonderful option for couples wanting a peaceful country home with generous indoor and outdoor space for gardening, entertaining, or working from home.
- Empty Nesters6/10
While the ground floor bedroom and ensuite facilitate single-level living, the large 2-acre garden requires ongoing maintenance that empty nesters might find demanding.
- Retirees6/10
The ground floor bedroom and ensuite are ideal for ageing in place, but buyers should investigate the practicality of managing a large rural property and driving to local amenities.
Work
3 areas- Remote Working7/10
The property offers versatile spaces that can function as a home office, though buyers should verify broadband speeds and connectivity in this rural area.
- Hybrid Commuting5/10
The rural Laois location means commuting to major employment hubs requires significant travel, making hybrid working less convenient.
- Retired8/10
An ideal home for retirement if you enjoy a peaceful countryside environment, privacy, and single-floor accommodation options.
Practical
8 areas- Ageing in Place8/10
The ground floor features a spacious bedroom with an ensuite bathroom, making it highly suitable for single-level living as one ages.
- Low Maintenance4/10
Managing a c. 2-acre site, detached garage, and a large dormer bungalow requires regular upkeep and gardening effort.
- Secure Gated Entry4/10
The property offers privacy and generous parking, but buyers should verify if secure gated entry is currently installed.
- Minimalist Design4/10
This is a traditional, spacious dormer bungalow rather than a minimalist architectural build.
- Flexible Floor Plans8/10
The versatile accommodation spans two floors with a ground floor ensuite bedroom that can serve various family needs or function as a workspace.
- Heritage Home2/10
The property is a standard modern-style dormer bungalow rather than a period or heritage home.
- Ecological Setup6/10
The 2-acre site offers great potential for growing your own food, keeping animals, or installing renewable energy solutions, though specific eco-features should be verified.
- Outdoor areas10/10
An outstanding feature of the property, boasting an impressive c. 2-acre plot complete with a detached 7m x 4m garage and ample space for various outdoor pursuits.
Interests
9 areas- Gardening10/10
An exceptional setting for gardening enthusiasts, featuring an expansive c. 2-acre site with vast potential for landscaping, growing produce, or creating outdoor features.
- Walking7/10
The quiet rural roads surrounding the property offer pleasant environments for country walks, though dedicated trail networks may require travel.
- Gym3/10
Commercial gym facilities are not immediately on hand in this rural location, though the detached garage provides ample space to set up a home gym.
- Cycling7/10
The low-traffic rural roads are suitable for cycling, although the distance to larger towns should be factored in.
- Golf5/10
Buyers should verify the proximity of local golf courses, as the immediate area is strictly rural.
- Fishing5/10
Depending on local rivers in Co. Laois, fishing opportunities may be accessible nearby, though buyers should verify specific local spots.
- Horse Riding8/10
The generous 2-acre plot and countryside setting provide excellent potential for keeping horses or accessing local equestrian paths.
- Water Sports1/10
There are no significant water sports facilities or major bodies of water directly associated with this inland rural location.
- Entertaining8/10
The spacious kitchen cum dining area, bright living room, and massive 2-acre outdoor grounds provide a fantastic setup for hosting guests and social gatherings.
Lifestyle
5 areas- Quiet Living10/10
Set in a peaceful countryside location in Baunaughra near Rathdowney, this property offers ultimate privacy and quiet surroundings.
- Rural Living10/10
Positioned on approximately 2 acres of land with expansive countryside views and grounds suitable for keeping animals, this is a quintessential rural retreat.
- Village Living6/10
The property is located close to Rathdowney, offering convenient access to local shops, schools, and pubs, though it sits outside the village core.
- Coastal Living1/10
Co. Laois is a landlocked county with no proximity to the coast.
- Urban Living2/10
This is a rural setting far removed from city life and major urban centers.
Social
6 areas- Community Involvement6/10
Rathdowney offers local community groups and amenities, though integration relies heavily on proactive participation in local rural life.
- Café Culture4/10
Local amenities include essential services and pubs in Rathdowney, but vibrant café culture is sparse compared to larger towns.
- Nightlife3/10
Nightlife is limited to local pubs in the nearby town, with no major clubs or evening entertainment venues close by.
- Health/Wellness groups4/10
Wellness groups would likely be found in nearby regional towns rather than directly in the immediate rural vicinity.
- Networking Opportunities2/10
Professional networking opportunities are minimal in this quiet rural countryside setting.
- Tech-Hub Connectivity2/10
There are no local tech hubs; remote tech workers will rely entirely on home internet connections.
Listing information
- Agent
- Maher Auctioneers
- Phone
- 062 61221
- Published on HouseDelve
- 6 September 2026
- Correction
- Report an issue
HD-F89432HouseDelve · 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.