Photograph 1 of 32 of Gahanive, Castlefreke, Rosscarbery, Co. Cork
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Gahanive, Castlefreke, Rosscarbery, Co. CorkP85V309

€295,000

4 Bed~1 Bath~BER G

What you'll like:

  • Elevated coastal views: The property commands beautiful elevated vistas overlooking Red Strand and the Atlantic Ocean, providing a picturesque and highly desirable coastal living environment for future residents.
  • Proximity to beaches: Located just moments from the golden sands of Red Strand Beach, buyers will enjoy effortless access to coastal walks, swimming, and scenic outdoor recreation.
  • Generous floor area: The four-bedroom bungalow extends to approximately 1400 square feet, offering a spacious single-story layout that appeals to families and downsizers alike.
  • Attached garage space: An exceptionally large attached garage provides convenient internal access through the utility room, offering substantial secure parking and excellent storage or workshop potential.
  • Detached steel garage: A separate steel-framed garage measuring about 25 square meters includes power connections, giving hobbyists or tradespeople a ready-made dedicated workspace.
  • Grant potential availability: The property has remained vacant for several years, meaning buyers should investigate whether it qualifies for lucrative Vacant Property Refurbishment and SEAI grants.
  • Scenic local amenities: Positioned close to the iconic Galley Head lighthouse and the wooded trails of Castlefreke, offering endless weekend activities right on your doorstep.
  • Desirable coastal location: Situated within a short drive of both the award-winning town of Clonakilty and the stunning village of Rosscarbery, ensuring access to vibrant dining and shopping.
  • Functional room proportions: Features four double bedrooms, all equipped with fitted storage, ensuring practical family accommodation once the necessary modernizations are fully completed.
  • South and west orientation: The sitting room benefits from excellent natural light and sea views from windows facing both south and west, creating a bright and welcoming daytime living space.
  • Established mains connection: The property benefits from a mains water connection, eliminating the uncertainty and potential cost of drilling a private well on the site.
  • Established outdoor space: Occupying a manageable plot of approximately 0.214 acres, giving owners enough private garden space to landscape without excessive ongoing maintenance demands.
  • Close to popular spots: The local Fishers Cross pub and the popular local café are just a short distance away, fostering a strong sense of local community and convenience.
  • Single-story accessibility: The traditional bungalow layout avoids interior staircases, making it an ideal long-term home for buyers planning for lifetime mobility and accessibility needs.
  • Asking price stability: The asking price has remained stable at €295,000 without any recorded increases, suggesting a potentially straightforward negotiation dynamic with the motivated vendor.
  • Clear geographic directions: Comprehensive local directions and Eircode availability make scheduling and executing site visits straightforward for prospective buyers and their engineering surveyors.
  • Outdoor lifestyle appeal: Ardfield village is just two miles away, placing the property within an active rural community known for sports clubs and community engagement.
  • Airport connectivity convenience: Cork City International airport is approximately a one-hour drive away, providing practical access for frequent flyers or international holiday homeowners.
  • Flexible layout potential: The separation between the main living quarters and the utility-to-garage zone allows imaginative renovators to reconfigure the kitchen and dining areas seamlessly.
  • Solid structural footprint: Providing 1400 square feet of existing built area saves considerable time and planning hurdles compared to starting a brand-new custom rural build from scratch.

But keep in mind:

  • Extremely poor BER rating: The property holds a dreadful G energy rating with an energy performance indicator of 655.69 kWh/m2/yr, indicating severe insulation and thermal efficiency deficits.
  • Full renovation required: The official description explicitly states that the dwelling requires a comprehensive, costly full renovation before it becomes habitable for modern living standards.
  • Severe modernization costs: Buyers must budget extensively for new heating systems, rewiring, plumbing, windows, and structural upgrades beyond the initial purchase price of €295,000.
  • Septic tank right-of-way: The property relies on a septic tank utilizing a registered right-of-way access, which buyers' legal teams must thoroughly inspect for maintenance liabilities and legal clarity.
  • Working farm proximity: Situated directly alongside a working farm, meaning prospective buyers should anticipate potential agricultural noises, odors, and seasonal machinery traffic.
  • Untested property services: The selling agent explicitly notes that no apparatus, fixtures, fittings, or services have been tested, placing the full investigative burden onto the purchaser.
  • Outdated oil heating system: The current heating relies on oil-fired central heating and an open fire, both of which will likely need complete replacement to achieve acceptable efficiency.
  • Single bathroom limitation: Despite offering four double bedrooms, the property features only one bathroom and a separate WC, which may create bottlenecks for larger family households.
  • Unverified boundary lines: The 0.214-acre plot boundaries and right-of-way pathways must be carefully verified by a qualified chartered land surveyor prior to unconditional contract signing.
  • Grant approval uncertainty: While advertised as potentially grant-eligible, buyers must independently confirm that vacant property and SEAI grant criteria apply to their specific financial situation.
  • Hidden structural defects Risk: Given the extended period of vacancy, hidden dampness, roof timber rot, or foundation issues may only become apparent during a detailed structural survey.
  • Potential planning restrictions: Upgrading or expanding a rural property situated in a sensitive coastal landscape may face stringent local authority planning guidelines and restrictions.
  • High local refurbishment demand: Sourcing reliable local builders and tradespeople for a major West Cork renovation project may prove challenging given current regional construction shortages.
  • Lack of floor area verification: Official floor area measurements are noted as approximate in the listing, requiring precise verification by an architect or engineer during pre-purchase due diligence.
  • Exposed coastal weathering: The elevated coastal location exposes the structure to heavy Atlantic winds and salt spray, which can accelerate exterior wear and maintenance requirements.
  • Potential insulation deficits: Bringing a G-rated home up to modern comfort levels will likely require extensive external or internal wall insulation, further reducing interior room dimensions.
  • Unpaved access verification: Buyers should investigate the exact legal maintenance obligations and physical condition of the private approach road leading to the dwelling.
  • Agricultural boundary interface: Living adjacent to a working farm may impose restrictions on domestic landscaping or privacy along the shared boundary lines.
  • Potential drainage complications: Given the reliance on a rural septic system, soil percolation tests should be commissioned to ensure current environmental compliance standards are met.
  • Total project financial risk: Unforeseen renovation inflation could significantly push total capital outlay beyond local market ceilings, requiring careful contingency budgeting by the buyer.

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 mildly overvalued compared with the available evidence.
  • The asking price of €295,000 appears slightly overvalued initially given the severe infrastructural deficiencies, notably the very poor G energy rating and the requirement for a comprehensive, costly renovation project to bring the dwelling up to modern standards.
  • Positive valuation signals include the highly desirable coastal location with stunning elevated views over Red Strand, proximity to local amenities in Rosscarbery, and potential eligibility for government refurbishment grants that can offset repair costs.
  • Such a price point could be strongly supported by intense buyer demand for coastal fixer-uppers in West Cork, whereas it might be undermined by unexpected structural remediation expenses or delays in accessing vacant home refurbishment funds.
  • The stable price history suggests the vendor is currently testing market sentiment firmly, while broader regional comparables indicate that coastal properties with scenic vistas often command significant premiums once fully modernized.

Build Analysis

What we know from similar construction types

  • The property is a detached 4-bedroom bungalow of approximately 130 to 1400 square feet, featuring an attached garage and an additional detached steel frame garage.
  • The BER rating is a very poor G with a high energy performance indicator, indicating that the building envelope, insulation, and heating systems are severely outdated and inefficient.
  • The listing notes the property requires a full renovation and has been vacant for several years, meaning a buyer should investigate potential issues related to damp, structural integrity, roof condition, and outdated plumbing or electrical systems.
  • The property relies on a septic tank with a registered right of way access, which the buyer's legal representative should verify for compliance, condition, and maintenance rights.
  • The presence of an adjacent working farm should be considered regarding potential agricultural noises, odours, and activity.
  • The structure may qualify for the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant and SEAI grants due to its vacant history, though eligibility and actual costs must be independently verified.

Retrofit Cost*

Possible renovating / insulating expenditure

  • Given the G BER rating and the requirement for a full renovation of a 1400 sq ft bungalow, a comprehensive deep retrofit is estimated to cost between 80,000 and 120,000 euros.
  • This estimated cost accounts for extensive external and internal insulation, window and door replacements, installation of a modern renewable heating system such as a heat pump, and upgrading electrical and plumbing systems to achieve a modern A or B BER standard.

Heating cost*

Estimated expense to heat this property every year

  • Estimated annual heating cost: €2,500 to €3,500.
  • Explanation: Given the poor BER rating of G and oil-fired central heating combined with an open fire, the property will experience significant heat loss, resulting in high energy consumption until major insulation and efficiency upgrades are completed.

Pollution Safe

9/10

Environmental situation to investigate

  • The property is situated in a scenic coastal and rural setting, appearing generally free from major industrial pollution concerns.
  • Any proximity to a working farm should be evaluated locally regarding standard agricultural activities and storage.

Flood Safe

8/10

Water overflow reports to follow up

  • The property occupies an elevated position commanding views over Red Strand and the Atlantic Ocean, typically lowering direct coastal flood risk.
  • Prospective buyers should verify local drainage and site-specific topography given proximity to coastal environments.

Recent Local Sales

Verified residential transactions published in the previous five years

Sales on the same street or estate

  • CASTLEFREKE, CORK

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €920,000.00

Recent sales in the wider Rosscarbery area

  • CHAPEL STREET, ROSSCARBERY, CO CORK

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €210,000.00
  • GALLANE, ROSSCARBERY, CORK

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €700,000.00
  • 4 CEOL NA MARA, ROSSCARBERY, CO CORK

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €435,000.00
  • GULLANE, ROSSCARBERY, CORK

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €510,000.00
  • CHAPEL LANE, ROSSCARBERY, CORK

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €300,000.00

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

  • Solicitor legal fees: approximately €1,500 to €3,500 plus VAT and outlay.
  • Land registration fees: approximately €400 to €800 depending on the property value and registration type.
  • Property valuation fees: approximately €150 to €300 for mortgage or assessment purposes.
  • Surveyor fees: approximately €500 to €1,200 depending on the depth of the structural survey required for a property requiring full renovation.
  • Annual home insurance: approximately €400 to €900 depending on the rebuild cost and location near the coast.

Forum Talk

What people are saying about this area

  • Residents in the wider West Cork area frequently discuss the scenic beauty and coastal lifestyle associated with living near Red Strand and Castlefreke.
  • Local community forums often highlight the desirability of proximity to amenities in nearby Clonakilty and Rosscarbery.
  • Discussions in rural Cork communities often center on the potential and requirements for utilizing vacant property and SEAI refurbishment grants.
  • Local commentary notes that rural properties in coastal settings can experience high demand from holiday-home buyers and renovators.

LifeFit Assessment

How well this property may suit your lifestyle

Family

7 areas
  • Young Children

    The property features a plot size of 0.214 acres and proximity to beaches and trails, offering great outdoor space for young children, though the requirement for a full renovation means safety and modern child-proofing measures must be established first.

    6/10
  • Teenagers

    With four bedrooms and ample outdoor area, there is plenty of room for teenagers, but the rural location means they will rely heavily on parents for transport to social hubs and schools.

    5/10
  • Multi-generational Living

    The single-level bungalow layout and 1400 sqft footprint offer potential for multi-generational living, though the current single bathroom and need for extensive renovation require careful reconfiguration to suit multiple generations comfortably.

    5/10
  • Single Buyers

    A single buyer taking on a four-bedroom fixer-upper with a G BER rating will face significant project management and renovation costs, making it a demanding undertaking for one person.

    4/10
  • Couples

    Couples looking for a scenic coastal project with immense potential will find the seaside location appealing, provided they have the budget and vision to completely modernize the property.

    6/10
  • Empty Nesters

    The single-level bungalow style is well-suited for empty nesters wanting to downsize to a scenic coastal setting, though they should factor in the effort required to manage a full renovation.

    7/10
  • Retirees

    Bungalow living eliminates stairs, which is ideal for retirees, but the remote rural setting and the need for significant building works mean buyers should verify access to local healthcare and contractor availability.

    6/10

Work

3 areas
  • Remote Working

    The quiet rural setting is conducive to focused home office work, but buyers should investigate local broadband speeds and connectivity options before committing.

    6/10
  • Hybrid Commuting

    With Cork City an hour's drive away, hybrid commuting is feasible but involves substantial driving times for office days.

    4/10
  • Retired

    The tranquil surroundings, single-level layout, and scenic coastal views make it a compelling proposition for retirees looking for a scenic project or peaceful sanctuary.

    8/10

Practical

8 areas
  • Ageing in Place

    The single-level bungalow design supports ageing in place well, provided the bathroom and internal spaces are adapted during the renovation process for accessibility.

    7/10
  • Low Maintenance

    Requiring a full renovation from a G BER rating and vacant status, the property will demand substantial ongoing maintenance and capital investment.

    2/10
  • Secure Gated Entry

    The property does not feature a secure gated entry in its current state, though buyers could easily install gates along the private approach.

    3/10
  • Minimalist Design

    The existing 1970s or traditional bungalow layout features conventional compartmentalized rooms, requiring architectural changes to achieve a minimalist open-plan design.

    4/10
  • Flexible Floor Plans

    The 1400 sqft footprint and adjoining large garage offer ample spatial flexibility to reconfigure bedrooms, living areas, and utilities during refurbishment.

    6/10
  • Heritage Home

    This is a mid-20th-century bungalow rather than a protected or period heritage home, representing standard mid-century rural Irish housing stock.

    2/10
  • Ecological Setup

    With a poor G BER rating (655.69 kWh/m2/yr), oil-fired heating, and a septic tank, the current ecological and energy setup is inefficient, though it offers eligibility for SEAI grants to upgrade.

    3/10
  • Outdoor areas

    The 0.214-acre plot includes a detached steel frame garage and an attached garage, offering fantastic scope for outdoor storage, workshops, and garden landscaping.

    8/10

Interests

9 areas
  • Gardening

    The 0.214-acre plot provides a decent canvas for landscaping and gardening enthusiasts to create outdoor sanctuary spaces tailored to the coastal climate.

    7/10
  • Walking

    Positioned moments from the wooded trails of Castlefreke, Red Strand Beach, and Long Strand, walking and hiking opportunities are exceptional right from the doorstep.

    10/10
  • Gym

    There are no commercial gym facilities in the immediate vicinity, requiring travel into nearby towns for indoor fitness centers.

    3/10
  • Cycling

    The scenic local coastal and rural roads offer wonderful cycling routes, though narrow rural lanes require caution around local traffic and farm vehicles.

    7/10
  • Golf

    While the region offers access to regional courses, golfers will need to drive to nearby towns to access club facilities.

    5/10
  • Fishing

    The prime coastal position close to the Atlantic Ocean and local strands makes this an excellent spot for sea fishing enthusiasts.

    9/10
  • Horse Riding

    The rural West Cork setting and nearby strand access provide a traditional environment well-suited for equestrian activities.

    7/10
  • Water Sports

    Proximity to Red Strand Beach and Long Strand makes this location ideal for swimming, surfing, and various other coastal water sports.

    9/10
  • Entertaining

    The large reception spaces and stunning sea views offer great potential for hosting guests once the interior layout is fully renovated and modernized.

    6/10

Lifestyle

5 areas
  • Quiet Living

    Situated in a scenic West Cork coastal position near Red Strand and Castlefreke, the property offers an exceptionally peaceful and quiet living environment, though buyers should note it is situated alongside a working farm.

    9/10
  • Rural Living

    The location delivers an authentic rural and coastal experience, surrounded by open countryside, farmland, and walking trails while remaining a short drive from local villages.

    8/10
  • Village Living

    While not directly in a village, the property is a short drive from Rosscarbery, Ardfield, and Rathbarry, offering convenient access to local community amenities.

    7/10
  • Coastal Living

    Commanding beautiful elevated views over Red Strand and the Atlantic Ocean, and moments from golden sands and the Galley Head lighthouse, this location is a haven for coastal enthusiasts.

    10/10
  • Urban Living

    Urban conveniences are distant, with Clonakilty a 15-minute drive and Cork City an hour away, offering very limited urban city-style living on the doorstep.

    2/10

Social

6 areas
  • Community Involvement

    Proximity to tight-knit communities in Ardfield, Rosscarbery, and local spots like Fishers Cross pub fosters opportunities for local community engagement.

    7/10
  • Café Culture

    While local spots like the Fish Basket café are nearby, broader café culture requires traveling to nearby towns like Clonakilty or Rosscarbery.

    5/10
  • Nightlife

    Nightlife options are restricted to local country pubs, with vibrant evening entertainment requiring trips into Clonakilty or Cork City.

    3/10
  • Health/Wellness groups

    Structured wellness classes and groups are sparse locally and will typically require travel to nearby populated centers.

    4/10
  • Networking Opportunities

    The rural location offers minimal local professional networking venues, suiting remote or independent workers rather than corporate networkers.

    3/10
  • Tech-Hub Connectivity

    There are no local tech hubs nearby, meaning remote tech workers will rely entirely on home internet connections.

    2/10

Listing information

Agent
Martin Kelleher Property Ltd.
Phone
023 885 9111
Published on HouseDelve
6 October 2026
Correction
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Property reference: HD-90DF3EHouseDelve · 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.