
Gortnatraw South, Kerrykeel, County DonegalF92K4V8
€249,000
3 Bed~2 Bath~BER E
What you'll like:
- Walking distance to village: The cottage is situated within easy walking distance of Kerrykeel village amenities, offering convenient access to local shops and services without needing to drive constantly.
- Tranquil rural setting: Located in peaceful Gortnatraw South, the property enjoys picturesque surroundings and lovely landscapes, providing an appealing balance of quiet country living.
- Proximity to coastal areas: The nearby coastline and accessible towns like Rathmullan and Ramelton offer wonderful recreational opportunities and scenic coastal spots for weekend outings.
- Comfortable driving distance: Larger towns such as Letterkenny and Milford are nearby, ensuring that extensive shopping, employment, and medical services are within a reasonable commute.
- Flexible accommodation options: Featuring three well-proportioned bedrooms, the layout suits first-time buyers, growing families, or those seeking a peaceful holiday retreat.
- Principal ensuite bedroom: The inclusion of an ensuite bathroom connected to the main bedroom adds valuable convenience and privacy for daily family living arrangements.
- Bright double aspect living: The living room features a double aspect layout, flooding the primary family space with natural daylight throughout the day.
- Attractive open fireplace: A decorative timber and cast-iron fireplace provides a charming focal point in the main living room for cozy winter evenings.
- Oil fired central heating: The installed central heating system ensures the home can be easily warmed during colder months alongside the open fire.
- PVC double glazing: The property is fitted with double-glazed windows throughout, helping to improve interior thermal retention and reduce outside noise intrusion.
- Private enclosed grounds: Mature hedging fully encloses the boundaries, creating a wonderful sense of privacy and establishing a secure space for children or pets.
- Ample off street parking: A gravel driveway provides generous parking space for multiple vehicles right at the front of the dwelling.
- Established front garden: The front lawn is well-defined and framed by mature greenery, offering immediate kerb appeal and outdoor relaxation potential.
- Concrete perimeter path: A practical concrete pathway surrounds the entire house, ensuring clean and dry external access during wet weather conditions.
- Integrated kitchen appliances: The kitchen-dining area comes equipped with an integrated four-ring gas hob and electric oven, reducing initial move-in expenses.
- Plumbed utility readiness: The kitchen area is already plumbed for a washing machine, simplifying laundry setup for the incoming homeowner.
- Electric shower installed: The separate shower cubicle features a reliable Triton electric shower, ensuring independent hot water availability for bathing.
- Stable asking price: The asking price has remained stable at €249,000 without upward revisions, potentially indicating a straightforward vendor pricing approach.
- Versatile property usage: The layout and location make it equally suitable as a permanent family residence, a holiday home, or a rural investment retreat.
- Established construction era: Built in 1962, the cottage represents a traditional rural build style that many buyers find aesthetically appealing after modernization.
But keep in mind:
- Poor energy rating: The property holds a weak BER rating of E, indicating high energy inefficiency that will likely result in expensive heating bills until upgraded.
- High energy consumption: The energy performance indicator sits at 311.78 kWh/m2/yr, which significantly exceeds modern efficiency standards and requires urgent insulation improvements.
- Compact floor area: While specific square footage is not provided, individual room measurements indicate a modest overall footprint that may feel restrictive for large families.
- Older build vintage: Constructed in 1962, the dwelling is over six decades old, meaning buyers should budget for potential hidden maintenance issues or structural wear.
- Outdated interior finishes: Features such as vinyl flooring in key areas and older bathroom suites suggest buyers will need capital to modernize the decor.
- Unknown septic tank status: Buyers must thoroughly investigate wastewater arrangements, including whether the septic tank complies with current environmental regulations.
- Private water supply checks: If the property relies on a well rather than mains supply, purchasers should test water quality and flow rates before finalizing purchases.
- Potential roof insulation gaps: Given the poor energy rating, the attic insulation levels should be professionally inspected to determine if upgrading is immediately necessary.
- Window seal longevity: Although PVC double-glazed windows are fitted, their exact age is unverified, and seals could be nearing the end of their operational lifespan.
- Electrical system compliance: The 1962 build date implies the electrical wiring may require a thorough survey by a certified electrician to ensure modern safety standards.
- Potential damp risks: Mature hedging and close proximity to lawns around a mid-twentieth-century cottage require careful checks for dampness and sub-floor ventilation.
- Limited bathroom space: The main bathroom contains a standard three-piece suite, and buyers should verify if there is adequate room for a separate shower installation.
- Heating system age: The oil-fired boiler should be inspected for efficiency and remaining lifespan, as replacement costs can be substantial for older units.
- Boundary hedge maintenance: While mature hedging provides privacy, buyers should verify exact legal boundary lines to ensure upkeep responsibilities are clear.
- Unverified structural condition: Glen Estates notes that fixtures and services remain untested, placing the full burden of technical due diligence on the purchaser.
- Single sink limitations: The kitchen features only a single drainer sink unit, which might feel restrictive for high-volume kitchen prep and cleanup.
- Electric shower reliance: The ensuite shower is electric, meaning simultaneous hot water demands elsewhere in the house could impact water pressure or temperature.
- Limited storage provisions: Aside from a hotpress in the hallway, built-in storage options appear minimal, potentially requiring freestanding wardrobes in bedrooms.
- Remote maintenance availability: Being located in rural Donegal, sourcing specialized tradespeople for renovation work could involve delays and higher travel costs.
- Resale liquidity factors: Rural cottages with low energy ratings can sometimes take longer to resell, making long-term value appreciation heavily dependent on upgrade quality.
Price positioning
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- The asking price of 249000 euros appears slightly elevated relative to local historical norms, potentially reflecting strong lifestyle appeal as a holiday retreat rather than pure structural value.
- Valuation signals are mixed, supported by a peaceful rural setting close to coastal amenities and three well-proportioned bedrooms, but constrained by an inefficient BER rating of E requiring energy upgrades.
- Market support for this pricing level could be sustained by continued demand for rural holiday homes in scenic Donegal, whereas poor energy performance and potential renovation costs might undermine buyer enthusiasm.
- Relevant market comparisons in the wider area indicate that detached and semi-detached properties achieve varied price points, suggesting buyers will scrutinize the overall condition before meeting the current asking price.
Build Analysis
What we know from similar construction types
- The property is a detached cottage built in 1962, meaning a buyer should investigate potential issues related to older construction standards, including the adequacy of insulation, dampness, roof condition, and electrical or plumbing systems.
- Features oil-fired central heating and PVC double-glazed windows, but a structural survey should be carried out to assess the overall integrity of the 1960s fabric.
- Given its rural location, a buyer should verify the status and compliance of the on-site wastewater treatment system (septic tank) and water supply source.
Retrofit Cost*
Possible renovating / insulating expenditure
- The property has an E BER rating, indicating poor energy efficiency and significant heat loss.
- A comprehensive deep retrofit to bring the home up to a modern B2 standard would typically cost between €40,000 and €60,000, depending on the extent of external wall insulation, upgrading windows and doors, installing a heat pump, and improving attic insulation.
Heating cost*
Estimated expense to heat this property every year
- Estimated annual heating cost: 2,000 euro to 2,600 euro.
- Explanation: Given the BER rating of E and the presence of oil-fired central heating in a 1962 cottage, the energy efficiency is lower than modern standards, resulting in higher estimated annual fuel consumption.
Environmental checks
Area-level evidence and things to investigate
Air quality
Nearby sites
Landfills
None foundWaste facilities
None foundIndustrial facilities
None foundNearby infrastructure
Overhead electricity lines
None foundUnderground electricity cables
None foundFlood Safe
8/10Water overflow reports to follow up
- The property is situated at a reasonable separation distance from mapped river flood areas, reducing direct exposure to fluvial flooding.
- Although some modelled flood zones exist within the wider locality, the local topography provides a buffer against frequent inundation events.
- Standard surface water management during heavy rainfall remains advisable, as is typical for rural countryside settings.
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 Kerrykeel area
GORTCALLY, KERRYKEEL, CO. DONEGAL
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €96,500.00
LEITRIM, SHORE RD, KERRYKEEL
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €220,000.00
11 FORD GARDEN, KERRYKEEL, DONEGAL
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €170,000.00
6 CUAN NA TRA, KERRYKEEL, LETTERKENNY
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €240,000.00
KNOCKBRACK, KERRYKEEL, COUNTY DONEGAL
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €80,062.00
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: €2,490 — 1% of €249,000.
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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: approximately 1,500 euro to 3,000 euro plus VAT and outlays.
- Land registration fees: approximately 400 euro to 800 euro depending on the property value and registration type.
- Property valuation fees: approximately 150 euro to 250 euro.
- Surveyor fees: approximately 400 euro to 800 euro depending on the level of detail required.
- Annual home insurance: approximately 350 euro to 600 euro.
Forum Talk
What people are saying about this area
- Local discussions highlight Kerrykeel as an increasingly popular spot for holiday homes and rural retreats, driven by its scenic coastal landscapes and proximity to Mulroy Bay.
- Residents on regional community forums often note that properties within walking distance of Kerrykeel village experience steady demand from both first-time buyers and families relocating from larger urban centres.
- Community groups frequently discuss the appeal of the wider North Donegal area, particularly the ease of access to nearby towns like Letterkenny, Milford, and Rathmullan for daily amenities and employment.
- Buyers exploring rural properties in the locality are advised to verify broadband availability and mobile coverage, as connectivity can vary significantly across remote townlands in the region.
LifeFit Assessment
How well this property may suit your lifestyle
Family
7 areas- Young Children7/10
The property features three bedrooms and a front garden laid to lawn, making it suitable for young children, though buyers should verify the safety and boundaries of the outdoor spaces.
- Teenagers6/10
Three bedrooms provide adequate individual space, but the rural location means teenagers may have to travel further for secondary schools, extracurricular activities, and social hubs.
- Multi-generational Living4/10
With a single-story layout of three bedrooms and two bathrooms built in 1962, the home might feel somewhat compact for multiple generations living under one roof without alterations.
- Single Buyers8/10
At an asking price of €249,000, this detached cottage offers an affordable entry point for single buyers looking for a permanent residence or rural holiday retreat.
- Couples9/10
An ideal setup for couples wanting a peaceful country lifestyle with extra bedrooms for guests or a home office, complemented by a cozy living room with an open fireplace.
- Empty Nesters8/10
Single-level cottage living appeals to empty nesters seeking to downsize to a manageable footprint while remaining close to a village and coastal amenities.
- Retirees7/10
The single-level accommodation is beneficial for retirees, although the rural location in County Donegal means proximity to specialized medical and transport services should be independently verified.
Work
3 areas- Remote Working7/10
The peaceful rural setting offers a tranquil environment for a home office, though buyers should independently verify local broadband speeds and reliability.
- Hybrid Commuting4/10
The rural location in County Donegal means hybrid commuting to major employment cities would involve significant travel times.
- Retired9/10
An excellent match for retirees looking to step away from the bustle of city life into a manageable, single-story country home.
Practical
8 areas- Ageing in Place8/10
The single-level cottage layout supports ageing in place, though buyers should evaluate doorways and bathroom configurations for accessibility needs.
- Low Maintenance7/10
A modest three-bedroom footprint with PVC double glazing and oil-fired central heating, though built in 1962 with a BER rating of E, indicating potential energy upgrade works may be needed.
- Secure Gated Entry4/10
The property has a gravel driveway and mature hedging enclosing the boundaries for privacy, but lacks formal secure gated entry.
- Minimalist Design5/10
A traditional 1962 cottage layout with separate rooms rather than open-plan minimalist architectural styling.
- Flexible Floor Plans5/10
Features a standard three-bedroom, two-bathroom cottage configuration with fixed structural divisions typical of its era.
- Heritage Home7/10
Originally built in 1962, the property retains a charming cottage character with traditional features like an open fireplace with a cast-iron surround.
- Ecological Setup4/10
Equipped with standard oil-fired central heating and an E energy rating, meaning buyers may want to invest in green retrofitting to improve thermal efficiency.
- Outdoor areas7/10
Includes a front garden laid to lawn, a concrete pathway surrounding the house, a gravel driveway for ample parking, and mature hedging providing privacy.
Interests
9 areas- Gardening7/10
Features a front garden laid to lawn and mature hedging, providing a lovely established foundation for keen gardeners to develop further.
- Walking8/10
The surrounding picturesque landscapes and proximity to local coastlines and Kerrykeel village offer excellent opportunities for scenic walks.
- Gym3/10
Dedicated commercial fitness facilities are sparse in the immediate rural vicinity, likely requiring a drive to larger nearby towns.
- Cycling7/10
Scenic local roads provide great routes for cyclists, though narrow country lanes require caution regarding traffic.
- Golf6/10
North Donegal is home to notable golf courses, though buyers should verify the exact driving times to the nearest clubs from Kerrykeel.
- Fishing8/10
The coastal location and proximity to water bodies in North Donegal offer strong potential for angling and fishing enthusiasts.
- Horse Riding6/10
Rural country roads and open spaces offer a pleasant environment for horse riding, subject to local equestrian facilities and stable availability.
- Water Sports7/10
Proximity to nearby coastlines and inlets makes this a practical location for those interested in kayaking, swimming, and other coastal water sports.
- Entertaining6/10
The kitchen-dining room and double-aspect living room provide decent indoor social space, complemented by a gravel parking area and lawn for casual outdoor gatherings.
Lifestyle
5 areas- Quiet Living9/10
Situated in the peaceful countryside setting of Gortnatraw South with mature hedging enclosing the boundaries, offering high levels of privacy and quiet surroundings.
- Rural Living10/10
A classic rural Donegal setting built in 1962, surrounded by picturesque landscapes and tranquil countryside while still being within walking distance of Kerrykeel village.
- Village Living8/10
The property is within walking distance of Kerrykeel village, offering easy access to local conveniences while retaining a countryside ambiance.
- Coastal Living8/10
Located in North Donegal close to nearby coastlines, making it a great base for those who enjoy marine landscapes and coastal drives.
- Urban Living3/10
This is strictly a rural and village-adjacent setting rather than an urban environment, with larger towns like Letterkenny requiring a drive.
Social
6 areas- Community Involvement7/10
Being close to Kerrykeel village allows residents to easily integrate into local community groups, events, and village life.
- Café Culture5/10
While Kerrykeel and surrounding villages offer local amenities, a wider selection of vibrant cafe culture is found in larger nearby towns.
- Nightlife3/10
Nightlife options are limited to local village pubs, with extensive entertainment venues requiring travel to larger regional centers.
- Health/Wellness groups5/10
Local wellness classes or community groups may be available in the village or nearby towns, but options are more limited than in urban centers.
- Networking Opportunities3/10
Professional networking is minimal in this rural setting, making it primarily suited for remote workers or retirees rather than network-driven professionals.
- Tech-Hub Connectivity2/10
There are no major tech hubs in the immediate rural vicinity, relying entirely on remote telecommunications connectivity.
Listing information
- Agent
- Glen Estates
- Phone
- +353 (86) 3853312
- Current status
- active
- Published on HouseDelve
- 10 November 2026
- Correction
- Report an issue
HD-2CBC39HouseDelve · 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.