Photograph 1 of 7 of Croagh Upper, Killyon, Birr, Co. Offaly
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Croagh Upper, Killyon, Birr, Co. OffalyR42RR77

€85,000

3 Bed~1 Bath~63 m²~BER G

What you'll like:

  • Attractive Asking Price: The property is listed at an accessible entry-level price of €85,000, presenting a rare affordable opportunity for buyers seeking a renovation project.
  • Generous Site Area: The property sits on approximately 1.06 acres of land, providing substantial outdoor space for gardening, expansion, or keeping animals.
  • Agricultural Sheds Included: The inclusion of on-site agricultural sheds offers valuable extra storage space or potential utility for hobby farming enthusiasts.
  • Private Rural Setting: Situated on a quiet country road, the location guarantees peace, quiet, and splendid views of the surrounding verdant countryside.
  • Walled Front Garden: A secure, enclosed walled garden at the front enhances curb appeal and provides a safe boundary facing the road.
  • Gated Side Access: The property benefits from a convenient gated side entrance, making it much easier to bring machinery or materials into the rear yard.
  • Enclosed Rear Yard: A large enclosed rear yard offers excellent privacy and security, perfect for keeping pets or securing building supplies during renovations.
  • Single-Storey Layout: The single-storey configuration eliminates interior stairs, making it ideal for future accessibility adaptations and easier maintenance.
  • Double-Fronted Exterior: The classic double-fronted bungalow style provides a balanced, attractive architectural foundation for aesthetic exterior modernizations.
  • Proximity to Birr: Located just 10km east of the historic heritage town of Birr, residents can easily access vibrant cafes, shops, and heritage attractions.
  • Local School Options: The nearby town of Birr is well-served by four primary schools and one secondary school, benefiting families with children.
  • Recreational Amenities: The area offers local sporting clubs and a renowned 18-hole golf course, ensuring plenty of leisure options close to home.
  • Short Drive to Roscrea: The larger town of Roscrea is only a short drive away, providing broader commercial amenities and essential transport links.
  • Historical Heritage Appeal: Living near Birr Castle and Gardens adds a wonderful cultural dimension and scenic weekend walking opportunities for residents.
  • Stable Asking Price: The recorded asking price has remained stable at €85,000 without increases, indicating a straightforward pricing strategy from the seller.
  • Auction Sale Format: Being sold via auction provides a transparent, fixed timeline for motivated buyers to secure the property without prolonged bidding delays.
  • Mature Boundaries: Established mature boundaries surrounding the plot offer immediate natural privacy and a settled, established rural atmosphere.
  • River Proximity: The region is near the Camcor and Little Brosna rivers, offering scenic local waterways and picturesque rural landscapes.
  • Renovation Blank Canvas: Because the house needs total refurbishment, buyers can completely customize the layout and finishes to their exact personal taste.
  • Strong Value Potential: Purchasing a detached home with over an acre of land at this price point leaves room for added value post-renovation.

But keep in mind:

  • Extensive Refurbishment Needed: The house needs refurbishment throughout, meaning buyers must budget heavily for comprehensive modernization and structural repairs.
  • Poor Energy Rating: The property carries a very low BER rating of G, which indicates severe energy inefficiency and high heating costs until upgraded.
  • Small Floor Area: Extending to only about 63 square metres, the accommodation is quite compact and will require clever space planning for modern living.
  • Heating and Insulation Costs: Achieving a comfortable living standard will require significant investment in insulation, windows, and an entirely new heating system.
  • Potential Plumbing Replacement: Given the age of the 1950s build, buyers should verify the condition of all water pipes and internal plumbing infrastructure.
  • Electrical System Overhaul: The electrical wiring likely dates back many decades and should be thoroughly inspected and replaced to meet modern safety codes.
  • Wastewater System Inspection: Buyers must investigate the existing septic tank or wastewater treatment facilities to ensure they comply with current environmental regulations.
  • Water Supply Verification: It is essential to confirm whether the property relies on a private well or mains water, and test the quality and pressure.
  • Roof and Chimney Checks: The roof structure and chimneys should be professionally surveyed to check for damp, structural sagging, or slate degradation.
  • Structural Damp Issues: Older vacant bungalows frequently suffer from rising damp, requiring professional damp-proofing treatments before interior finishes can begin.
  • Asbestos Material Presence: Homes built in the 1950s may contain asbestos in ceiling tiles or insulation, requiring specialist removal and disposal precautions.
  • Planning Permission Limits: Any major structural extensions or changes to the agricultural sheds will require careful navigation of local planning guidelines.
  • Auction Legal Risks: Purchasing via auction means buyers must review legal contracts thoroughly beforehand, as winning bids are legally binding immediately.
  • Limited Public Transport: The rural address lacks frequent public transport options, making a reliable personal car essential for daily commuting and errands.
  • Boundary Demarcation Check: Buyers should have their solicitor carefully verify the exact folio boundaries on the ground to prevent future neighbor disputes.
  • Agricultural Shed Condition: The agricultural sheds may require substantial roof repairs or structural reinforcement due to weathering over the years.
  • Lack of Central Amenities: Daily conveniences are not within walking distance, requiring a drive to Birr or Roscrea for groceries and services.
  • High Renovation Inflation: Construction material and labor costs are currently high, which could cause total refurbishment expenses to exceed initial budget estimates.
  • Uncertainty of Final Cost: Because hidden defects often emerge during deep retrofits, buyers should maintain a robust financial contingency fund.
  • Low Energy Upgrades Mandate: Achieving an acceptable BER rating will likely demand renewable technologies like heat pumps or solar panels, adding to project complexity.

Price positioning

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This comparison depends on limited public and listing evidence, which may be incomplete, outdated or not directly comparable. The score is not a percentage, professional valuation or guaranteed estimate. Ask an independent qualified valuer before relying on a property value.
The asking price looks moderately undervalued compared with the available evidence.
  • The asking price appears attractively positioned below typical rural market values primarily due to the extensive renovation required and the lowest possible energy efficiency rating, which necessitates substantial upfront capital expenditure from any prospective buyer before habitation.
  • Under-valuation signals are clearly driven by the property requiring complete modernization throughout, its modest compact floor area of sixty-three square meters, and a poor energy performance certificate rating that demands comprehensive thermal upgrades.
  • Such a low guide price is strongly supported by the need for heavy structural or internal investment, while factors that could undermine this low pricing strategy include competitive auction bidding stimulated by the inclusion of agricultural sheds and land acres.
  • Additional relevant market factors involve the auction method of sale via Wilsons Auctions, which deliberately utilizes an accessible entry price to generate widespread competitive interest and drive final bidding closer to true market worth.

Build Analysis

What we know from similar construction types

  • The property is a single-storey, semi-detached double-fronted bungalow believed to have been built around 1950, extending to approximately 63 square metres.
  • The listing explicitly states that the house needs refurbishment throughout, indicating that potential buyers should budget for extensive modernization and repairs.
  • Buyers should investigate the structural integrity, roof condition, dampness, and the state of plumbing and electrical systems given the age of the property and its vacant or un-refurbished status.
  • The property sits on approximately 1.06 acres and includes agricultural sheds, so a buyer should verify boundary lines, planning compliance for the outbuildings, and the overall condition of the surrounding land.

Retrofit Cost*

Possible renovating / insulating expenditure

  • The property has a BER rating of G, which indicates poor energy efficiency and necessitates a comprehensive deep retrofit.
  • A full deep retrofit—including external wall insulation, upgraded windows and doors, roof insulation, and the installation of a modern heat pump system—is estimated to cost between €40,000 and €60,000, potentially offset by available SEAI grants.

Heating cost*

Estimated expense to heat this property every year

  • Estimated annual heating cost: €2,000 to €2,800.
  • Explanation: Given the small floor area of 63 m², energy demand would normally be modest, but the poor BER rating of G indicates severe thermal inefficiency, lack of insulation, and high potential heat loss, leading to significantly elevated heating expenses.

Pollution Safe

9/10

Environmental situation to investigate

  • The property is located in a tranquil rural setting surrounded by agricultural land and countryside, appearing well away from major industrial pollution sources or large commercial incinerators.
  • Any potential risks from legacy agricultural activities or local septic tanks are typical of rural areas and should be verified during standard property surveys.

Flood Safe

8/10

Water overflow reports to follow up

  • The regional geography features nearby rivers such as the Camcor and Little Brosna, meaning buyers should consult local flood maps to verify specific parcel vulnerability.
  • The elevated rural site layout suggests a relatively low likelihood of direct flooding, though localized surface water accumulation during heavy rainfall should be investigated.

Recent Local Sales

Verified residential transactions published in the previous five years

Sales on the same street or estate

  • STREAMSTOWN, KILLYON, BIRR

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €305,000.00
  • RATHURE, KILLYON, BIRR

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €135,000.00
  • STREAMSTOWN, KILLYON, BIRR

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €520,000.00
  • STREAMSTOWN, KILLYON, BIRR

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €210,000.00

Recent sales in the wider Birr area

  • CASTLETOWN, FORTAL, BIRR

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €350,000.00
  • CLONBRONE, FORTAL, BIRR

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €162,000.00
  • 7 LISMOONEY COURT, KINNITY, BIRR

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €211,453.70
  • 3 RIVERSIDE HOUSE, BIRR, COUNTY OFFALY

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €200,000.00
  • 14 BALLINCUR, KINNITY, BIRR

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €205,000.00

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

  • Estimated stamp duty: €850 — 1% of €85,000.
    ?
    Based on the asking price shown on this page, using standard residential stamp-duty rates. No adjustments are made for VAT, reliefs, mixed-use property or additional land. The final purchase price and your circumstances may change the amount payable.
  • Solicitor legal fees: €1,500 to €3,000 excluding VAT and outlays.
  • Land registration fees: €400 to €800 depending on the property value and registration type.
  • Property valuation fees: €150 to €300 for a standard mortgage valuation report.
  • Surveyor fees: €400 to €800 depending on the level of detail required for the inspection.
  • Annual home insurance: €350 to €600 depending on the level of cover and property condition.

Forum Talk

What people are saying about this area

  • Locals in the Birr and Killyon areas frequently discuss rural housing needs, property renovations, and the charm of living near the Slieve Bloom mountains.
  • Community discussions often highlight the importance of septic tank maintenance and upgrading older rural dwellings to improve energy ratings like the current G BER.
  • Residents value the proximity to Birr for daily amenities, schools, and local heritage attractions while enjoying a quiet countryside setting.
  • Infrastructure topics in surrounding Co Offaly regions generally center on rural road upkeep, local council services, and connectivity to larger towns like Roscrea.

LifeFit Assessment

How well this property may suit your lifestyle

Family

7 areas
  • Young Children

    The property requires extensive refurbishment throughout and has a G BER rating, meaning safety, insulation, and modern heating will need significant upgrades before it is suitable for young children.

    3/10
  • Teenagers

    With only 63 square metres of floor area and three bedrooms, space is quite limited for teenagers, and the remote rural location offers very limited local entertainment or independence.

    3/10
  • Multi-generational Living

    A floor area of 63 square metres with a single bathroom and a single-storey semi-detached layout provides virtually no space or privacy for multi-generational living arrangements.

    1/10
  • Single Buyers

    At an asking price of 85,000 euros, this property presents an affordable entry point for single buyers willing to take on a project, though substantial renovation funds will be necessary.

    6/10
  • Couples

    Couples looking for a fixer-upper project will find potential in the c. 1.06 acres of land, but the poor energy rating and need for full refurbishment require careful budgeting.

    5/10
  • Empty Nesters

    The single-storey layout avoids stairs, which suits ageing in place, but the heavy maintenance required for a property needing complete refurbishment may offset these benefits.

    5/10
  • Retirees

    While the bungalow design avoids stairs, the rural location is isolated, and managing a major renovation project and large plot might prove challenging for retirees.

    4/10

Work

3 areas
  • Remote Working

    While the quiet environment suits home working, prospective buyers should verify the availability and speed of local broadband infrastructure, as rural connections can vary.

    4/10
  • Hybrid Commuting

    The rural Offaly location makes regular commuting to major employment hubs like Dublin impractical for a standard hybrid schedule.

    2/10
  • Retired

    The single-storey bungalow layout is convenient for retirees, though the extensive home improvements needed might require physical or financial stress.

    6/10

Practical

8 areas
  • Ageing in Place

    As a single-storey bungalow, it avoids stairs, but substantial adaptation and modernization would be necessary to make it truly comfortable for ageing in place.

    6/10
  • Low Maintenance

    The property requires complete refurbishment throughout, holds a G BER rating, and includes acreage and outbuildings that will demand ongoing upkeep.

    1/10
  • Secure Gated Entry

    The property benefits from a gated side access from the road and an enclosed walled front garden, providing a baseline of security.

    5/10
  • Minimalist Design

    The 1950s built structure has a traditional compartmentalised layout rather than an open-plan minimalist aesthetic.

    3/10
  • Flexible Floor Plans

    At 63 square metres across three bedrooms, the rooms are relatively compact with limited flexibility for major structural reconfiguration without expansion.

    3/10
  • Heritage Home

    Built around 1950 in a rural setting, it has a traditional character but is not classified as a protected historic architectural monument.

    4/10
  • Ecological Setup

    A G BER energy rating indicates poor thermal performance and high carbon emissions, requiring a comprehensive energy retrofitting overhaul.

    1/10
  • Outdoor areas

    Features approximately 1.06 acres of land, agricultural sheds, an enclosed rear yard, and a walled front garden, offering extensive practical outdoor space.

    8/10

Interests

9 areas
  • Gardening

    With approximately 1.06 acres of land, a large enclosed rear yard, and an enclosed walled front garden, there is abundant space for keen gardeners to develop.

    8/10
  • Walking

    The quiet country road setting provides pleasant opportunities for local walks, though proximity to major waymarked trails should be verified.

    7/10
  • Gym

    There are no gyms within immediate walking distance, requiring a drive into nearby towns like Birr for fitness facilities.

    2/10
  • Cycling

    The surrounding country roads are generally quiet for cycling, though rural road conditions and lack of dedicated cycle lanes should be considered.

    6/10
  • Golf

    Birr features an 18-hole golf course located roughly 10 kilometres away, offering reasonable access for players.

    5/10
  • Fishing

    The area is situated near the meeting of the Camcor and Little Brosna rivers, offering potential freshwater fishing opportunities nearby.

    5/10
  • Horse Riding

    The inclusion of land, agricultural sheds, and mature boundaries could potentially support equestrian interests with some adaptation.

    7/10
  • Water Sports

    Being located inland in the midlands, water sports opportunities are extremely limited compared to coastal or lakeside locations.

    2/10
  • Entertaining

    The indoor living space is restricted at 63 square metres, though the large outdoor grounds offer potential for warm-weather gatherings once cleared and landscaped.

    4/10

Lifestyle

5 areas
  • Quiet Living

    Situated on a quiet country road in Croagh Upper with splendid views of the verdant countryside, the location offers exceptional peace and tranquility.

    9/10
  • Rural Living

    Set on approximately 1.06 acres of land with agricultural sheds and mature boundaries, this property epitomises authentic rural country living.

    10/10
  • Village Living

    The property is quite isolated from immediate village shops and amenities, with Birr located 10 kilometres away and smaller settlements like Kinnitty 5 kilometres away.

    4/10
  • Coastal Living

    Located inland in County Offaly near Birr, the property is very far from any coastal areas or marine environments.

    1/10
  • Urban Living

    This is a distinctly rural setting far removed from urban centers, with the nearest town of Birr having a modest population of under 5,000.

    1/10

Social

6 areas
  • Community Involvement

    Rural townlands rely on close-knit community ties, but active involvement generally requires travelling into nearby Birr or surrounding villages.

    5/10
  • Café Culture

    Cafés and restaurants are absent in the immediate townland, requiring a trip into the heritage market town of Birr.

    3/10
  • Nightlife

    Nightlife options are virtually non-existent in the immediate rural vicinity, with local pubs concentrated in nearby towns.

    2/10
  • Health/Wellness groups

    Wellness groups and organised classes will necessitate travel to larger nearby settlements like Birr or Roscrea.

    3/10
  • Networking Opportunities

    The rural location offers almost no local professional networking opportunities.

    1/10
  • Tech-Hub Connectivity

    There are no technology hubs or shared workspaces in the immediate rural area.

    1/10

Listing information

Agent
Wilsons Auctions
Phone
01 464 2800
Current status
active
Published on HouseDelve
2 November 2026
Correction
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Property reference: HD-51121FHouseDelve · Republic of Ireland

Report 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.