Crickamore, Dungloe, County DonegalF94EH90
€99,000
2 Bed~1 Bath~BER G
What you'll like:
- Affordable entry price: Priced attractively at ninety-nine thousand euros, this cottage offers budget-conscious buyers a rare opportunity to enter the property market without a massive initial financial burden.
- Vacant property grant: The property appears eligible for the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant, potentially providing substantial financial assistance to help offset heavy renovation and modernization costs.
- Traditional character: Retaining classic rural architectural features, the structure provides a wonderful canvas for anyone looking to restore an authentic Irish cottage with genuine historic charm.
- Compact two-bedroom layout: Featuring two reasonably sized bedrooms and a central living area, the home offers a manageable footprint that keeps construction and heating expenses relatively low.
- Peaceful rural setting: Situated in the quiet countryside of Crickamore, residents will enjoy a tranquil environment far removed from urban congestion and heavy traffic noise.
- Proximity to Dungloe: The convenient short drive to Dungloe town ensures easy access to local shops, schools, pubs, and essential community services for daily convenience.
- Rosses area location: Being close to the stunning beaches and scenic villages of the Rosses area provides endless outdoor recreational opportunities for nature lovers.
- Outdoor space: The surrounding plot offers decent exterior ground space for gardening, outdoor seating, or landscaping enhancements to complement the rural lifestyle.
- Included storage shed: The small rear storage shed gives buyers a ready-made external space for tools, bicycles, and construction equipment during the restoration process.
- Open fireplace feature: The living room contains a traditional open fireplace that can become a cozy focal point once restored and properly inspected.
- Second fireplace option: Bedroom two includes an additional fireplace feature, enhancing the historic aesthetic and offering potential heating alternatives if brought up to code.
- Rear access hall: A dedicated back hall provides a practical secondary entryway, helping to keep mud and outdoor debris out of the main living areas.
- Fitted kitchen units: The kitchen already contains fitted units, potentially saving some upfront cabinetry costs while you plan a more comprehensive kitchen overhaul.
- Existing bathroom fixtures: The home comes equipped with an electric shower, toilet, and hand basin, offering basic functional plumbing that could serve as temporary facilities during early renovation phases.
- Renovation autonomy: Buying a complete project allows you to completely customize the insulation, layout finishes, and decor to match your exact personal taste and modern efficiency standards.
- Holiday retreat potential: Once upgraded, the charming rural cottage would make an idyllic seasonal holiday home or a lucrative short-term tourist rental property.
- Permanent residence option: The location and layout also suit those seeking a quiet permanent home for retirement or simple country living.
- Local auctioneer guidance: Being handled by an established regional agency provides buyers with a local point of contact familiar with rural properties in County Donegal.
- Manageable room proportions: The main living room measures over five meters by four meters, offering a surprisingly spacious central area for a small traditional cottage.
- Strong local demand: Renovated rural properties in scenic coastal counties consistently attract strong market interest from both domestic buyers and international holiday seekers.
But keep in mind:
- Extremely poor BER rating: The property holds a G energy rating with a very high energy consumption indicator, meaning extensive and costly insulation upgrades will be mandatory.
- Total interior restoration required: The description notes that the home needs refurbishment throughout, indicating that virtually every surface and system requires professional attention.
- Untested fixtures and services: The listing explicitly warns that appliances, plumbing, and electrical apparatus have not been tested, posing unknown repair expenses for the buyer.
- Unverified structural integrity: Buyers should commission a thorough structural survey to check for damp, roof sagging, or foundation issues typical in older rural cottages.
- Heating system limitations: Relying on open fires and electric showers suggests the absence of a central heating system, requiring a complete new plumbing and radiator installation.
- High renovation capital needed: The low purchase price will likely be offset by substantial construction costs required to bring the fabric of the building up to modern habitation standards.
- Grant conditions and timing: The Vacant Property Grant is subject to strict eligibility terms and approval processes, meaning buyers should not rely on funds being guaranteed before purchasing.
- Remote rural isolation: While peaceful, the rural setting means longer response times for emergency services and complete reliance on private vehicular transport for daily errands.
- Potential septic tank issues: Rural properties often rely on private sewage treatment systems, so buyers must verify the condition, capacity, and legal compliance of any existing septic tank.
- Water supply verification: Purchasers need to confirm whether the property connects to a public mains water supply or relies on a private well that may require filtration upgrades.
- Electrical rewiring mandatory: Given the traditional age of the property, the electrical wiring is likely obsolete and will need a complete certified replacement for safety.
- Roof and timber inspection needed: Older roof timbers are susceptible to woodworm, rot, or water ingress, necessitating a professional check of the roof structure.
- Damp and ventilation challenges: Traditional stone or block cottages frequently suffer from rising damp and inadequate ventilation, requiring specialist damp-proofing measures.
- No floor area provided: The official floor area is missing from the listing details, making it harder to accurately estimate per-square-meter renovation costs without an on-site measure.
- Property type unspecified: The exact construction type is not detailed, leaving ambiguity regarding whether it is traditional stone, cavity block, or another material requiring specific repair techniques.
- Window and door upgrades: Existing windows and exterior doors are likely single-glazed or drafty, necessitating full replacements to improve the dismal G energy rating.
- Site boundary verification: Buyers must have their solicitor carefully check the legal title maps to ensure all surrounding outdoor space and access rights are correctly defined.
- Access road maintenance: Rural access roads might be narrow or privately maintained, meaning buyers should investigate who is responsible for road upkeep and winter gritting.
- Planning permission rules: Any structural extensions or major exterior alterations will require local council planning permission, adding time and professional fees to the project.
- Project management stress: Overseeing a complete rural restoration requires significant time, patience, and contingency funds to handle unexpected construction delays and contractor availability.
Price positioning
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- The asking price appears attractive because it reflects a traditional rural cottage requiring extensive renovation, sitting significantly below typical regional dwelling values while offering an affordable entry point for prospective buyers seeking a project.
- Valuation signals are heavily influenced by the lowest possible energy rating and a clear need for comprehensive refurbishment works throughout, which offset the charm of its peaceful rural setting and convenient proximity to local amenities.
- Potential buyers should weigh the availability of government renovation grants that could substantially support upgrade costs against the severe risk of hidden structural and infrastructural deficits typical of older vacant rural properties.
- Overall, the quoting figure reasonably balances the substantial capital outlay required to bring the dwelling up to modern habitable standards against the enduring market demand for traditional rural homes in the wider geographic district.
Build Analysis
What we know from similar construction types
- The property is a traditional two-bedroom cottage requiring comprehensive restoration, refurbishment, and modernisation works throughout.
- Given the G BER rating and traditional build nature, a buyer should investigate the condition of the roof structure, external walls, damp-proofing, and floor integrity.
- The plumbing, electrical systems, and heating (including the open fireplace) should be thoroughly inspected by professionals, as services have not been tested.
- A buyer should verify local planning regulations and structural requirements if looking to extend or alter the existing cottage layout.
- Verification of the exact floor area and property boundaries should be confirmed via the title deeds and structural survey.
Retrofit Cost*
Possible renovating / insulating expenditure
- The property has a G BER rating, indicating very poor energy efficiency with an extremely high energy performance indicator.
- A comprehensive deep retrofit including external or internal wall insulation, roof insulation, window and door upgrades, and the installation of a modern heating system is estimated to cost between 50,000 and 80,000 euros.
- Costs may vary depending on the extent of structural repairs required before insulation works can proceed, though the buyer may be able to offset some expenses through the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant.
Heating cost*
Estimated expense to heat this property every year
- Estimated annual heating cost: €2,500 to €3,500.
- Explanation: The property has a poor BER rating of G with a very high energy performance indicator of 1204.1 kWh/m2/yr, indicating severe heat loss and inefficient heating systems. Actual costs will depend on the installation of insulation and upgraded heating systems following refurbishment.
Pollution Safe
9/10Environmental situation to investigate
- The property is situated in a peaceful rural setting in County Donegal, far removed from major heavy industrial zones, urban centers, and large-scale waste incinerators.
- Any minor localized agricultural runoff or legacy domestic waste disposal practices should be verified by the buyer during standard environmental due diligence.
Flood Safe
8/10Water overflow reports to follow up
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 Dungloe area
CROAGHNASHALLOG, DUNGLOE, DONEGAL
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €295,000.00
FALMORE, DUNGLOE, CO DONEGAL
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €550,000.00
SALTPANS, DUNGLOE, CO. DONEGAL
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €280,000.00
LEFFIN, SHESKINARONE, DUNGLOE
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €245,000.00
MEENMORE, DUNGLOE, DONEGAL
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €285,000.00
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: €990, calculated at 1% of the asking price of €99,000 for a residential property under one million euro.
- Solicitor legal fees: Approximately €1,500 to €2,500 plus VAT and outlays for conveyancing services.
- Land registration fees: Approximately €175 to €700 depending on the property value and registration method.
- Property valuation fees: Approximately €150 to €300 for a standard mortgage or independent valuation.
- Surveyor fees: Approximately €500 to €1,000 for a detailed structural survey, highly recommended given the property requires restoration and refurbishment.
- Annual home insurance: Approximately €400 to €800, which may vary significantly depending on the vacant status and required refurbishment works.
Forum Talk
What people are saying about this area
- Locals in the Dungloe and wider Rosses area frequently discuss the scenic rural beauty and quiet lifestyle of the region.
- Community forums often highlight the popularity of rural renovation projects and the utilization of the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant for traditional cottages.
- Residents note that while the area offers great proximity to local beaches and amenities, rural properties typically rely on private septic systems and local well or filtered water sources.
- Weather discussions in the northwest region frequently touch upon Atlantic coastal winds and winter storms affecting rural access roads.
LifeFit Assessment
How well this property may suit your lifestyle
Family
7 areas- Young Children3/10
The property requires substantial restoration and refurbishment before it is suitable for young children, though the rural setting offers space to play once upgraded.
- Teenagers3/10
Two bedrooms provide limited space for teenagers, and the remote location lacks local entertainment venues for older youths.
- Multi-generational Living2/10
With only two bedrooms and one bathroom, the layout is too compact to accommodate multiple generations comfortably.
- Single Buyers7/10
An affordable entry point at €99,000 for a single buyer willing to take on a renovation project and personalize the space.
- Couples7/10
A great project home for a couple looking for a quiet rural retreat to renovate together.
- Empty Nesters6/10
Single-level traditional cottage living appeals to empty nesters, though the extent of the required renovation should be carefully considered.
- Retirees6/10
Offers a peaceful rural lifestyle on a single level, but retirees should verify the feasibility and cost of modernizing the property for aging in place.
Work
3 areas- Remote Working5/10
Provides a quiet environment for remote work, but buyers must verify broadband speeds and connectivity in this rural location.
- Hybrid Commuting2/10
The remote location in County Donegal makes regular commuting to major employment hubs highly impractical.
- Retired8/10
An ideal project for retirees looking to settle into a peaceful rural cottage lifestyle.
Practical
8 areas- Ageing in Place5/10
Single-level accommodation is helpful, but extensive renovation is required, and accessibility features would need to be installed.
- Low Maintenance1/10
The property is in need of restoration and refurbishment works throughout, indicating high maintenance and project demands.
- Secure Gated Entry2/10
No secure gated entry is mentioned or evident in the traditional cottage setup.
- Minimalist Design4/10
Compact traditional layout, but the historic cottage style differs from contemporary minimalist architecture.
- Flexible Floor Plans3/10
A fixed traditional two-bedroom layout with limited opportunity for major spatial expansion without structural changes.
- Heritage Home9/10
A traditional two-bedroom cottage retaining plenty of character and offering restoration potential.
- Ecological Setup2/10
With a poor BER rating of G, the property requires comprehensive energy upgrades to meet modern ecological standards.
- Outdoor areas6/10
Enjoys outdoor space surrounding the property along with a small rear storage shed.
Interests
9 areas- Gardening7/10
The outdoor space surrounding the property offers a good canvas for keen gardeners to develop.
- Walking8/10
The scenic rural and coastal surroundings of the Rosses area provide wonderful opportunities for walking enthusiasts.
- Gym2/10
No gym facilities are nearby, requiring a drive into the nearest town for fitness centers.
- Cycling7/10
Quiet local rural roads offer pleasant cycling routes, though traffic conditions and road quality should be verified.
- Golf5/10
Proximity to local golf courses in the wider County Donegal region depends on travel, but the immediate area is rural.
- Fishing8/10
The rural and coastal location in County Donegal offers fantastic access to local fishing spots.
- Horse Riding6/10
Rural setting allows for potential equestrian pursuits, subject to finding local stables and riding routes.
- Water Sports7/10
Proximity to the beaches and coastal amenities of the Rosses area supports water sports activities.
- Entertaining4/10
The compact layout and current need for total refurbishment limit immediate entertaining space until upgraded.
Lifestyle
5 areas- Quiet Living10/10
Located in a peaceful rural setting in Crickamore, offering exceptionally quiet surroundings.
- Rural Living10/10
A quintessential rural cottage experience surrounded by countryside and close to the Rosses area.
- Village Living6/10
While rural, the property is a short drive from Dungloe town and local village amenities.
- Coastal Living7/10
Convenient access to the many beaches of the surrounding Rosses area, providing a strong coastal flavor.
- Urban Living1/10
Far removed from urban centers, offering none of the characteristics of city living.
Social
6 areas- Community Involvement6/10
Rural communities near Dungloe offer local integration opportunities, though integration takes time in a tight-knit area.
- Café Culture3/10
Limited café culture in the immediate rural townland, requiring a trip into Dungloe for local amenities.
- Nightlife1/10
Virtually no nightlife in the immediate rural setting of Crickamore.
- Health/Wellness groups3/10
Local wellness groups would require traveling into Dungloe or nearby larger towns.
- Networking Opportunities1/10
Not suited for professional networking given its isolated rural position.
- Tech-Hub Connectivity1/10
Lacks proximity to physical tech hubs, relying entirely on remote internet capabilities.
Listing information
- Agent
- Campbells Auctioneers
- Phone
- 074 95 21020
- Published on HouseDelve
- 30 September 2026
- Correction
- Report an issue
HD-023688HouseDelve · 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.