Photograph 1 of 21 of Marino House, Off Wolfe Tone Square, Bantry, Co. Cork
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Marino House, Off Wolfe Tone Square, Bantry, Co. CorkP75HX88

€850,000

5 Bed~3 Bath~445 m²~BER D

What you'll like:

  • Generous floor area: Spanning an impressive 445 square meters across multiple levels, this extensive property offers incredible flexibility for a large family or multi-use investment.
  • Bantry Bay views: Enjoy picturesque, inspiring vistas of the water from a prime position that significantly enhances the daily living experience.
  • Central town location: Situated directly adjacent to Wolfe Tone Square, residents enjoy ultimate convenience within walking distance of all local amenities and services.
  • Rich historical character: Built circa 1820, this early 19th-century Georgian home retains wonderful architectural heritage that appeals to period property enthusiasts.
  • Income generation potential: The presence of separate accommodation units provides immediate possibilities for rental income, guest house operations, or multi-generational living.
  • Comprehensive parking: Featuring both a courtyard-style front yard and a generous rear parking area, the site easily accommodates multiple vehicles in a busy town setting.
  • Period architectural features: High ornate ceilings and authentic fireplaces create a sophisticated, elegant interior atmosphere difficult to replicate in modern builds.
  • Charming outdoor space: A private side garden offers a pleasant, secluded green retreat, perfectly balancing the bustling town-centre surroundings.
  • Versatile lower floors: The spacious lower levels are already renovated into useful rooms, allowing buyers to quickly adapt them for commercial offices or luxury apartments.
  • Attached workshop space: Three ground-floor garages provide secure storage, workshop potential, or valuable additional utility space directly connected to the main structure.
  • Self-contained apartment: The upper floor of the attached building includes a complete two-bedroom apartment, ideal for guests, staff quarters, or independent rental yield.
  • Charming country kitchen: The top-floor residence features an inviting Aga stove and granite worktops, blending traditional warmth with practical modern luxury.
  • Established local history: Having hosted notable figures and institutions over two centuries, the building serves as a celebrated local landmark with a fascinating past.
  • Stable asking price: Recorded price history shows the asking figure has remained firm at 850000 euros without erratic fluctuations, suggesting confident seller positioning.
  • Mixed-use adaptability: The layout seamlessly bridges residential comfort with commercial potential, granting future owners exceptional versatility under a single title.
  • Mature natural screening: Mature trees bordering the front courtyard preserve privacy and soften the hard boundaries of this central urban location.
  • Multiple heating systems: The property benefits from a combination of oil-fired and electric heating setups, providing flexible climate control across distinct building zones.
  • Connected municipal services: Reliable mains water and mains sewage connections are already in place, simplifying future operational management and residential upgrades.
  • Strong architectural presence: The imposing two-storey-over-basement Georgian facade delivers striking curb appeal and a prestigious sense of arrival.
  • Rare market offering: Substantial period properties with this unique combination of scale, central positioning, and commercial versatility seldom become available in this coastal town.

But keep in mind:

  • Poor energy rating: The D energy rating indicates sub-optimal thermal performance, meaning buyers should budget for substantial insulation and heating upgrades.
  • High energy consumption: An energy performance indicator exceeding 250 kWh per square meter highlights significant potential heating inefficiencies and elevated utility costs.
  • Mixed commercial residential: Operating a mixed-use building may introduce complex local planning, insurance, and tax considerations that require careful professional legal review.
  • Renovation maintenance costs: Maintaining a 200-year-old Georgian structure involves specialized conservation skills and potentially high ongoing repair expenses for historic fabric.
  • Basement damp risks: The lower basement levels require thorough moisture inspection to ensure dampness is properly managed in this coastal environment.
  • Uncertain planning status: Buyers must independently verify that all previous commercial conversions and current layouts comply fully with local planning permissions.
  • Complex internal layout: Spanning multiple disparate sections and floors, the configuration might feel disjointed for those seeking a unified family home.
  • Commercial traffic proximity: Being located right next to the town square could expose residents to urban noise, foot traffic, and local event disturbances.
  • Roof and timber inspection: Given the advanced age of the building, a comprehensive structural survey is essential to check for historic roof or timber decay.
  • Upgrading outdated services: Older portions of the plumbing and electrical systems may require complete replacement to meet modern safety and efficiency standards.
  • High capital investment: Beyond the substantial purchase price, buyers must prepare for significant capital outlay to modernize and harmonize the entire 445-square-meter layout.
  • Conservation restrictions: Local heritage guidelines might restrict certain exterior alterations or window replacements, complicating planned modernization efforts.
  • Commercial parking competition: Town-centre parking demands could occasionally impact the availability of the front courtyard spaces for private visitors.
  • Boundary clarification needed: Independent legal advice should be sought to accurately verify the exact extent of the 0.4-acre site boundaries and easements.
  • Insurance cost implications: Insuring a historic, mixed-use commercial and residential property can carry higher premiums and specialized policy requirements.
  • Accessibility challenges: Multi-level Georgian staircases and basement steps lack modern accessibility features, which could limit mobility for certain occupants.
  • Commercial viability unknown: Buyers intending to run a business from the lower floors should conduct independent market research to confirm local commercial demand.
  • Window thermal efficiency: Single or older double-glazed period windows could be major sources of heat loss, requiring expensive sympathetic restoration or secondary glazing.
  • Ventilation in older rooms: Enclosed basement and ground-floor rooms should be checked for adequate natural or mechanical ventilation to prevent condensation issues.
  • Future resale liquidity: Properties of this specific size, price point, and mixed-use nature cater to a niche buyer pool, potentially extending future marketing times.

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 appears broadly in line, with a slight undervaluation signal.
  • The asking price of €850,000 for this expansive Georgian property appears broadly in line with standard market valuations when evaluated against the substantial 445 square metre floor area, prime town-centre site with views of Bantry Bay, and extensive multi-use potential.
  • Valuation signals are bolstered by the combination of a main residential structure, attached commercial spaces, additional garage buildings, and a self-contained apartment, though tempered by a moderate D energy rating that could require future capital upgrades.
  • Such a price point is supported by the unique historical character, flexible configuration for commercial or residential income streams, and extensive parking, but could be undermined by the specialized nature of a mixed-use Georgian asset requiring niche buyer demand.
  • Market dynamics indicate a steady holding strategy with no recorded price reductions since initial tracking, suggesting the vendor is confident in the asset's distinct positioning despite regional transaction benchmarks typically clustering at lower price points.

Build Analysis

What we know from similar construction types

  • Marino House is a distinctive, early 19th-century Georgian period building constructed circa 1820, extending to approximately 445 square metres over two storeys above a basement.
  • The property has undergone careful renovation into a mixed-use style layout featuring a residential apartment on the upper floor, flexible rooms across the lower levels, and an attached two-storey building comprising ground-floor garages/workshops with a self-contained two-bedroom apartment above.
  • Given its historic age and protected or period status (dating back over 200 years), a buyer should investigate structural integrity, damp proofing, timber preservation, and adherence to any local planning regulations or protected structure guidelines regarding alterations or commercial use.
  • Services include oil-fired central heating, electric heating, mains water, and mains sewage, which should be independently inspected for efficiency and compliance.

Retrofit Cost*

Possible renovating / insulating expenditure

  • The property has a BER rating of D, indicating an inefficient energy performance profile for its substantial 445 sq. m. floor area.
  • A comprehensive deep retrofit to bring this historic Georgian building to a high energy efficiency standard would likely require substantial investment, estimated broadly between €80,000 and €150,000 or more.
  • Costs would be driven by the need for sensitive internal or external insulation solutions that preserve the period character, upgrading multiple heating systems, replacing outdated windows, and addressing potential ventilation challenges in a historic structure.

Heating cost*

Estimated expense to heat this property every year

  • Estimated annual heating cost: 3,500 to 5,000 euro
  • Explanation: Given the large 445 m² floor area and a D BER rating indicating lower energy efficiency, heating and maintaining a comfortable temperature across multiple sections will require substantial energy usage.

Pollution Safe

9/10

Environmental situation to investigate

  • The property is located in an established town-centre setting in Bantry, well-removed from heavy industrial zones or major manufacturing plants.
  • There are no apparent legacy landfill or major industrial pollution concerns directly associated with this immediate site, though buyers should verify local environmental records as part of standard due diligence.

Flood Safe

7/10

Water overflow reports to follow up

  • The property is situated close to the waterfront area of Bantry Bay around Wolfe Tone Square, which historically requires attention to coastal and tidal weather patterns.
  • Prospective buyers should consult detailed local flood maps and insurance assessments to fully understand any potential flood risks associated with low-lying coastal town settings.

Recent Local Sales

Verified residential transactions published in the previous five years

Sales on the same street or estateExtra effort was used to find nearby sales here

  • HARBOUR VIEW COTTAGE, WOLFE TONE SQUARE, BANTRY

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €290,000.00
  • HARBOUR VIEW COTTAGE, WOLFE TONE SQUARE, BANTRY

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €300,000.00
  • BANK HOUSE, WOLFE TONE SQUARE, BANTRY

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €300,000.00
  • HARBOUR VIEW COTTAGE, WOLFE TONE SQUARE, BANTRY

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €105,000.00

Recent sales in the wider Bantry area

  • 21 GLENGARRIFF ROAD, BANTRY, CO CORK

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €245,000.00
  • OCONNORS SEAFOOD RESTAURANT, THE SQUARE, BANTRY

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €310,000.00
  • 7 ST CANNARAS PLACE, BANTRY, CORK

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €135,000.00
  • THE MOORINGS, GURTEENROE, BANTRY

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €1,190,000.00
  • 39 GLENGARRIFF RD, BANTRY, CORK

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €245,000.00

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: €8,500 — 1% of €850,000.
    ?
    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: approximately 1,500 to 3,500 euro plus VAT
  • Land registration fees: approximately 400 to 800 euro depending on property value
  • Property valuation fees: approximately 150 to 300 euro
  • Surveyor fees: approximately 1,000 to 2,500 euro given the large floor area and period nature of the building
  • Annual home insurance: approximately 800 to 1,500 euro

Forum Talk

What people are saying about this area

  • Local residents frequently discuss the vibrant community atmosphere around Wolfe Tone Square and the convenience of having Bantry Bay amenities within walking distance.
  • Community forums often highlight Bantry as a desirable heritage town with a strong tourism sector and active local business networks.
  • Discussions regarding town-centre properties frequently note the balance between lively commercial activity and residential privacy.
  • Local groups occasionally share updates on civic enhancements, parking management, and infrastructural developments in the Bantry area.

LifeFit Assessment

How well this property may suit your lifestyle

Family

7 areas
  • Young Children

    The property offers extensive space and a small garden area, but the town-centre location near a square and commercial offices means fewer traditional suburban family amenities right outside the door.

    5/10
  • Teenagers

    With multiple bedrooms, a generous floor area, and independent apartment spaces, teenagers will appreciate the separation and space, while the town setting provides independence.

    7/10
  • Multi-generational Living

    Exceptional layout potential with a main house apartment, an attached 2-bedroom apartment over workshops, and lower floors suitable for adaptation, making it ideal for extended family living.

    9/10
  • Single Buyers

    At an asking price of €850,000 and with a massive 445 square metre footprint, this property is far too large and costly for the average single buyer, unless they intend to commercialise parts of it.

    4/10
  • Couples

    Couples looking for a grand period home with business or rental potential will find it appealing, though maintaining a 445 sq. m. Georgian building requires significant effort.

    6/10
  • Empty Nesters

    The top-floor apartment style home allows for comfortable single-level living while leaving the rest of the building for guests, hobbies, or income generation.

    7/10
  • Retirees

    Town-centre convenience is great for services, but the multi-story nature of the historic building and potential upkeep of a 0.4-acre site may pose accessibility challenges over time.

    6/10

Work

3 areas
  • Remote Working

    The property includes existing commercial offices and stores, plus multiple reception and rooms, making it ideal for dedicated home-office setups or remote working.

    9/10
  • Hybrid Commuting

    Bantry is relatively remote in West Cork terms, making hybrid commuting to major cities like Cork or Kerry demanding, though town-based remote working is well supported.

    5/10
  • Retired

    Retirees can enjoy town-centre convenience and income or guest potential from the attached apartments, though the scale of the property requires management.

    7/10

Practical

8 areas
  • Ageing in Place

    The top-floor apartment offers single-level living, but the multi-story historic nature of the main building with stairs and basement levels requires careful consideration for long-term mobility.

    5/10
  • Low Maintenance

    As an early 19th-century Georgian period property spanning 445 sq. m. with a D BER rating, ongoing maintenance, preservation, and energy efficiency upgrades will be substantial.

    3/10
  • Secure Gated Entry

    Features a courtyard-style yard bordered by mature trees and ample parking to the front and rear, though buyers should verify formal security gate installations.

    6/10
  • Minimalist Design

    This is a character-filled historic Georgian property defined by ornate high ceilings, period fireplaces, and classic architecture rather than minimalist modern aesthetics.

    2/10
  • Flexible Floor Plans

    Extremely flexible layout featuring a main house over three floors, lower floors adaptable for commercial or luxury apartments, an attached 2-storey building with workshops, and a separate 2-bedroom apartment.

    10/10
  • Heritage Home

    A magnificent circa 1820 Georgian period building with a rich local history, retaining numerous original architectural features and period charm.

    10/10
  • Ecological Setup

    With a D BER rating and oil-fired central heating, the property relies on older energy systems, though its historic fabric offers preservation challenges for deep eco-retrofitting.

    4/10
  • Outdoor areas

    Includes a courtyard-style yard with ample parking and a small side garden, balancing town-centre convenience with manageable private outdoor space.

    5/10

Interests

9 areas
  • Gardening

    The outdoor space is limited to a small side garden and a courtyard-style yard with parking, offering minimal room for serious gardening enthusiasts.

    4/10
  • Walking

    The town-centre location provides immediate access to local walking routes, town amenities, and scenic coastal pathways around Bantry.

    9/10
  • Gym

    There is ample interior space to set up a private home gym in one of the many unutilised rooms or workshops, though local commercial facilities depend on town offerings.

    5/10
  • Cycling

    The West Cork region offers fantastic cycling routes, and the property has secure garage/workshop spaces to store equipment.

    7/10
  • Golf

    Bantry Bay Golf Club is nearby, making this a convenient base for golfers, alongside secure parking for transport.

    6/10
  • Fishing

    Bantry's coastal and river location makes it a prime spot for fishing enthusiasts looking for sea angling or local freshwater spots.

    8/10
  • Horse Riding

    Equestrian activities are available in the broader West Cork countryside, though the property itself is urban-adjacent with courtyard parking rather than stables.

    5/10
  • Water Sports

    Proximity to Bantry Bay provides great access to sailing, kayaking, and various other water sports.

    8/10
  • Entertaining

    With high ornate ceilings, period fireplaces, a country-style kitchen with an Aga, and extensive parking, the house is exceptionally well-suited for hosting guests.

    9/10

Lifestyle

5 areas
  • Quiet Living

    Situated off Wolfe Tone Square in Bantry, it benefits from a historic setting, but town-centre proximity and commercial office usage on-site mean it is not a secluded rural retreat.

    5/10
  • Rural Living

    While West Cork is renowned for rural landscapes, Marino House is firmly positioned in a town-centre setting, though it does feature mature trees and a courtyard.

    3/10
  • Village Living

    The property is right next to the town square in Bantry, offering excellent access to local shops, amenities, and community life.

    8/10
  • Coastal Living

    The property boasts lovely views of Bantry Bay, placing it close to the coast and marine amenities in West Cork.

    8/10
  • Urban Living

    As a substantial Georgian town-house with commercial office history, it suits an urban or town-centre live-work lifestyle very well.

    7/10

Social

6 areas
  • Community Involvement

    A prominent historic landmark in the town with a rich local heritage, placing the owner right at the heart of the Bantry community.

    8/10
  • Café Culture

    Being adjacent to Wolfe Tone Square puts local cafes, restaurants, and social spots right on the doorstep.

    9/10
  • Nightlife

    Town-centre location ensures easy walking access to local pubs and evening venues in Bantry.

    7/10
  • Health/Wellness groups

    Access to local wellness groups depends on town facilities, but the expansive rooms inside the house could potentially host private classes or group activities.

    6/10
  • Networking Opportunities

    The combination of residential and commercial spaces offers interesting possibilities for local business networking or running a guesthouse.

    6/10
  • Tech-Hub Connectivity

    While remote work is feasible space-wise, buyers should verify local broadband speeds and infrastructure for heavy tech-hub connectivity in this historic West Cork town.

    4/10

Listing information

Agent
Sherry FitzGerald O'Neill West Cork
Phone
023 883 3995
Current status
active
Published on HouseDelve
24 October 2026
Correction
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Property reference: HD-F33D58HouseDelve · 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.