Photograph 1 of 8 of Lands Bunnanertish, Knockanillaun, Ballina, Co. Mayo
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Lands Bunnanertish, Knockanillaun, Ballina, Co. Mayo

€50,000

BER B2

What you'll like:

  • Affordable entry price: The attractive guiding price of fifty thousand euros offers a low-cost investment opportunity for agricultural buyers, local farmers, or those seeking rural land holdings.
  • Substantial land area: Spanning approximately seven point one six acres in a single block, the holding provides a manageable scale for grazing livestock or agricultural hobby farming.
  • Good quality pasture: The land is currently in grass and described as good quality, making it immediately suitable for various farming enterprises or seasonal animal grazing.
  • Manageable divisions: The holding is laid out in large open plan divisions which allow for efficient movement of machinery and simplified livestock management across the site.
  • Mature natural boundaries: Existing boundaries featuring established hedging and trees offer natural shelter for livestock and contribute positively to the rural aesthetic of the property.
  • Good road frontage: Direct access along the local road ensures straightforward entry for agricultural machinery, maintenance vehicles, and potential future development access points.
  • Existing agricultural shed: An older type detached shed near the road provides convenient immediate storage space for basic farm equipment, tools, or seasonal fodder.
  • Proximity to Ballina: Situated just seven kilometers west of the historic market town of Ballina, the property benefits from easy access to a large population base and commercial services.
  • Strong local amenities: Ballina provides an excellent choice of primary schools, secondary institutions, modern sports facilities, and a vibrant town centre with artisan cafes and shopping.
  • Transport connectivity: The nearby town features a railway station connecting to major regional hubs, providing reliable public transport links for commuters and regional travelers.
  • Coastal recreational access: The famed surfing beach at Enniscrone is located only a short drive away, offering fantastic leisure and weekend recreational opportunities for residents.
  • Natural scenic surroundings: Positioned between the Ox Mountains and the Nephin Mountains near Killala Bay, the area offers breathtaking natural scenery and an active outdoor lifestyle.
  • Live virtual auction format: The property is offered via a flexible hybrid auction format, allowing prospective bidders to participate conveniently online or physically in Dublin.
  • Clear folio boundaries: The lands are securely contained within a single folio identifier, simplifying legal title checks and conveyance procedures for the purchaser's solicitor.
  • Potential site opportunity: The land is noted as an ideal location for a one-off residential dwelling, which may appeal to buyers exploring long-term housing options.
  • Established agricultural community: Located in a traditional farming hinterland, the property is surrounded by active agricultural enterprises and supportive local farming networks.
  • Accessible regional routes: Convenient access from the N59 national road ensures that larger regional towns like Castlebar and Sligo are within comfortable driving distances.
  • Direct utility proximity: The presence of neighboring rural housing suggests that essential utility connections such as electricity may be accessible close to the roadside boundary.
  • Agricultural versatility: The productive nature of the grassland accommodates diverse farming uses, ranging from sheep grazing to silage production or equine pursuits.
  • Growth potential: Investing in rural acreage near an expanding regional town provides a tangible asset with enduring intrinsic value tied to the local agricultural economy.

But keep in mind:

  • Unconditional sale risk: The property is being sold as seen and expressly not subject to planning permission, meaning buyers risk losing deposits if planning is refused.
  • Strict planning hurdles: Local rural housing control policies in County Mayo are notoriously stringent, requiring applicants to demonstrate strong local housing need criteria.
  • Irregular land shape: The parcel is described as being in one irregular shaped block, which might slightly complicate fencing maintenance and mechanized agricultural operations.
  • Condition of shed: The older type detached shed near the road may require significant structural repair, asbestos testing, or demolition before modern usage is viable.
  • Lack of services: There are no explicit mentions of existing on-site water, electricity, or waste infrastructure, which could require costly connections from the public road.
  • Unverified title conditions: Buyers must carefully review legal contracts regarding VAT liabilities and specific covenants contained within the folio before committing funds.
  • Auction deposit requirements: Purchasing through a public auction typically requires an immediate non-refundable deposit on the day of sale, demanding prior financial readiness.
  • Legal fees and conveyancing: Due diligence must be conducted swiftly prior to the auction date, requiring prompt engagement of legal professionals to review complex paperwork.
  • Hidden boundary discrepancies: The exact physical boundaries on the ground should be thoroughly verified against the official folio map to ensure no historical encroachments exist.
  • Potential drainage issues: Prospective buyers should inspect the land during wet weather to ensure there are no hidden sub-surface waterlogging or heavy drainage challenges.
  • Right of way queries: Due diligence should confirm whether any third parties hold grazing rights, rights of way, or utility wayleaves across the subject land parcel.
  • Agricultural access safety: The local road access point should be assessed for adequate sightlines to ensure safe entry and exit for slow-moving farm vehicles.
  • Market volatility risks: Buying land at auction without financing contingencies places the full financial burden on the purchaser if mortgage approvals face unexpected delays.
  • Absence of residential entitlements: The listing highlights potential rather than guaranteed residential planning, meaning buyers should not assume a house can be built easily.
  • Local area restrictions: Rural planning guidelines in Mayo often restrict new builds to individuals closely tied to the immediate agricultural or local community.
  • Future development costs: Constructing a new dwelling from scratch will involve substantial capital investment in driveway installation, percolation testing, and septic tanks.
  • Lack of indoor plumbing: The complete absence of residential or bathroom structures means all living infrastructure must be built entirely from the ground up.
  • Dependence on private wells: Any future residential development would likely rely on installing a private bored well and wastewater treatment system.
  • Distance from major cities: Commuting to major economic hubs like Dublin or Galway is impractical for daily travel, limiting the property primarily to local occupiers.
  • Agricultural rental yields: Renting agricultural land of this size may yield modest returns, meaning the property is primarily suited for capital holding or personal use.

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 somewhat undervalued compared with the available evidence.
  • The asking price appears attractively valued because €50,000 for approximately 7.16 acres of agricultural land with road frontage represents a relatively low entry threshold for rural acreage in this region.
  • Valuation signals are driven by the agricultural utility of the good quality grassland combined with an older type detached shed, though potential buyers must factor in the speculative nature of acquiring unzoned rural land.
  • Factors that could support a higher final realization include strong local farming demand or prospective interest regarding a one-off residential site, while the restriction of being sold strictly as seen without planning permission could heavily undermine higher bids.
  • Relevant considerations encompass the parcel's irregular shape, mature boundaries, and convenient location just seven kilometers from Ballina, making it an accessible holding for agricultural expansion or long-term speculative holding.

Build Analysis

What we know from similar construction types

  • The property listing is for agricultural land measuring approximately 2.90 hectares (7.16 acres) rather than a built residential dwelling, meaning there is no existing house structure to evaluate.
  • The listing notes the presence of an older type detached shed near the road, which a buyer should inspect for structural integrity, asbestos presence, and utility connections if reuse is intended.
  • The description mentions the land is ideal for a one-off house subject to necessary planning permission, and since the property is being sold as seen and not subject to planning, a buyer must investigate local housing need rules, zoning restrictions, and percolation test results prior to purchase.

Heating cost*

Estimated expense to heat this property every year

  • Annual heating cost is not applicable as the listing pertains to land (approximately 7.16 acres) rather than a built residential dwelling with a heating system.

Pollution Safe

9/10

Environmental situation to investigate

  • The rural agricultural setting appears largely free from major industrial pollution concerns, heavy manufacturing plants, or active large-scale waste facilities.
  • Any legacy agricultural or localized chemical runoff should be independently verified by prospective buyers prior to farming or residential development.

Flood Safe

7/10

Water overflow reports to follow up

  • While the regional geography includes the River Moy basin and Killala Bay catchment, the specific elevated nature of the lands suggests a moderate to low apparent flood risk.
  • Buyers should consult detailed local authority flood maps and verify drainage conditions near the mature boundaries to ensure comprehensive flood safety.

Recent Local Sales

Verified residential transactions published in the previous five years

Sales on the same street or estate

  • RATHBALL, KNOCKANILLAUN, BALLINA

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €130,000.00
  • CLOONGLASNA, KNOCKANILLAUN, BALLINA

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €500,000.00
  • COOLCRAN, KNOCKANILLAUN, BALLINA

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €252,000.00
  • RAPPA CASTLE, KNOCKANILLAUN, BALLINA

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €437,500.00

Recent sales in the wider Ballina area

  • 16 THE GLEBE, CHURCH RD, BALLINA

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €237,500.00
  • 32 COIS NA HABHANN, BONNICONLON, BALLINA

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €125,000.00
  • 19 RATHGLAS, REHINS FORT, BALLINA

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €277,500.00
  • 28 CHILDERS HEIGHTS, BALLINA, CO MAYO

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €200,000.00
  • 2 JAMES CONNOLLY MEWS, BALLINA, CO MAYO

    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

  • Stamp duty: Approximately 1% to 7.5% of the purchase price depending on whether the property is residential or commercial/agricultural.
  • Solicitor legal fees: Generally ranges from €1,500 to €3,000 plus VAT and outlays.
  • Land registration fees: Typically €40 to €170 depending on the value and method of registration.
  • Property valuation fees: Usually between €150 and €300.
  • Surveyor fees: Generally ranges from €300 to €800 depending on the property type and size.
  • Annual home insurance: Varies significantly by property type and coverage, but typically starts around €300 to €600 per year.

Forum Talk

What people are saying about this area

  • Locals in the Ballina and Knockanillaun areas frequently discuss rural housing development and planning guidelines for one-off agricultural properties.
  • Community forums often highlight the scenic appeal of proximity to the River Moy and the Nephin Mountains for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Discussions in the wider Mayo region often touch upon infrastructural investments and regional road maintenance along routes connecting Ballina and Crossmolina.
  • Agricultural groups and local landowners regularly share insights regarding grassland management, livestock farming conditions, and land leasing opportunities in north County Mayo.

LifeFit Assessment

How well this property may suit your lifestyle

Family

7 areas
  • Young Children

    The property consists of agricultural land rather than a habitable residential home, making it entirely unsuitable for families with young children unless a new home is built.

    3/10
  • Teenagers

    With no existing dwelling on the site, teenagers would not find suitable accommodation here currently, though the rural location is peaceful.

    3/10
  • Multi-generational Living

    The generous plot size of over 7 acres offers potential space, but the lack of existing structures means multi-generational living is entirely dependent on securing future planning permission.

    4/10
  • Single Buyers

    Single buyers looking for an immediate home will find this land requires substantial capital and planning effort to develop from scratch.

    3/10
  • Couples

    An attractive opportunity for couples wishing to design and build their own home, though subject to obtaining necessary planning permission.

    4/10
  • Empty Nesters

    Empty nesters seeking a manageable downsizing option will find raw land less practical than a ready-to-occupy property.

    3/10
  • Retirees

    Building a custom retirement home requires navigating complex planning rules and construction management, which may not suit all retirees.

    3/10

Work

3 areas
  • Remote Working

    Remote working is only possible if a residential property with reliable broadband infrastructure is successfully built on the site.

    4/10
  • Hybrid Commuting

    Ballina railway station provides rail links to Castlebar, Westport, and Dublin, but the land itself lacks a dwelling and requires travel to transport hubs.

    4/10
  • Retired

    Managing a rural landholding and undertaking a self-build project may present significant physical and logistical challenges for retirees.

    3/10

Practical

8 areas
  • Ageing in Place

    The property is currently undeveloped land and is not suitable for ageing in place without a purpose-built accessible home.

    2/10
  • Low Maintenance

    Agricultural land in grass requires ongoing management, grazing, or maintenance of boundaries and hedging.

    4/10
  • Secure Gated Entry

    The land has good road frontage, but secure gated entry infrastructure would need to be installed by the buyer.

    3/10
  • Minimalist Design

    The open-plan manageable divisions offer a blank canvas for anyone wishing to pursue a minimalist architectural design in the future.

    5/10
  • Flexible Floor Plans

    Building from scratch allows for complete flexibility in floor plan design, subject to planning approval.

    5/10
  • Heritage Home

    There is no heritage home on the site, only an older type detached shed near the road.

    1/10
  • Ecological Setup

    The c. 7.16 acres of good quality land with mature hedging and trees present strong potential for ecological or sustainable farming projects.

    8/10
  • Outdoor areas

    The property offers extensive outdoor space with over 7 acres of open-plan divisions and mature natural boundaries.

    10/10

Interests

9 areas
  • Gardening

    With over 7 acres of land, keen gardeners and horticulturists have vast amounts of space to cultivate gardens, polytunnels, or orchards.

    9/10
  • Walking

    The surrounding scenic countryside and proximity to the Ox and Nephin Mountains offer ample opportunities for outdoor walking.

    7/10
  • Gym

    There are no gym facilities directly on the property, requiring travel into nearby Ballina for fitness centres.

    2/10
  • Cycling

    Quiet rural roads provide cycling routes, though caution is required on local rural links.

    6/10
  • Golf

    While there is no golf course on the land, the wider Co. Mayo region features accessible courses.

    5/10
  • Fishing

    The location near the renowned River Moy makes this an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts.

    8/10
  • Horse Riding

    The large acreage and rural setting provide ample space to potentially keep horses and set up equestrian facilities.

    8/10
  • Water Sports

    Proximity to Killala Bay and Enniscrone beach provides good access to coastal water sports.

    6/10
  • Entertaining

    As vacant agricultural land with only an older detached shed, entertaining guests is not feasible until a home is built.

    2/10

Lifestyle

5 areas
  • Quiet Living

    Located in a rural area of County Mayo, the site offers a very peaceful setting surrounded by mature hedging and trees.

    9/10
  • Rural Living

    Comprising approximately 7.16 acres of good quality agricultural land in grass, this is the epitome of rural County Mayo living.

    10/10
  • Village Living

    While rural, the lands are located a short drive from Ballina and Crossmolina, offering a balance between countryside isolation and nearby community services.

    5/10
  • Coastal Living

    The property is located near Killala Bay and a short drive from the famed surfing beach at Enniscrone, offering good coastal access.

    6/10
  • Urban Living

    This is a strictly rural landholding with no urban infrastructure directly on-site.

    1/10

Social

6 areas
  • Community Involvement

    Integration into the local community would rely on engaging with nearby towns like Ballina and Crossmolina.

    5/10
  • Café Culture

    While Ballina offers artisan cafes and boutique shopping, there are no social amenities directly adjacent to the rural plot.

    4/10
  • Nightlife

    The immediate rural area is very quiet, with nightlife restricted to nearby towns.

    2/10
  • Health/Wellness groups

    Access to wellness groups depends on traveling into Ballina town.

    4/10
  • Networking Opportunities

    As vacant agricultural land, there are no inherent professional networking opportunities on-site.

    2/10
  • Tech-Hub Connectivity

    The site is raw agricultural land without digital infrastructure or tech-hub facilities.

    2/10

Listing information

Agent
Wilsons Auctions
Phone
01 464 2800
Published on HouseDelve
26 September 2026
Correction
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Property reference: HD-0C5F38HouseDelve · 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.