Photograph 1 of 29 of Meenreagh, Rathmullan, Co. Donegal
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Meenreagh, Rathmullan, Co. DonegalF92Y7W8

€180,000

3 Bed~3 Bath~136 m²~BER D

What you'll like:

  • Scenic location: The property is situated in a beautiful scenic location offering lovely views of Lough Swilly, which enhances daily living and long-term appeal.
  • Proximity to village: Located less than 4km from Rathmullan Village, residents enjoy convenient access to local amenities while maintaining a peaceful rural atmosphere.
  • Generous site size: The dwelling occupies a spacious site extending to approximately 0.52 acres, providing plenty of outdoor room for family activities and gardening.
  • Landscaped grounds: Beautifully landscaped gardens to both the front and rear feature mature shrubs and an attractive stone chip driveway for great curb appeal.
  • Outdoor structures: A timber sun house is included in the sale, offering a ready-made shaded retreat or hobby space within the rear garden.
  • Spacious floor area: Offering approximately 136 square metres of living space, the detached layout easily accommodates comfortable modern family routines.
  • Flexible layout: The inclusion of a ground-floor bedroom with an ensuite bathroom provides convenient single-level living options or guest accommodation.
  • Open plan living: The ground floor features a bright open-plan living, kitchen, and dining area that creates an inclusive environment for entertaining guests.
  • Character fireplace: The living room includes a feature red brick fireplace with a sleeper beam overmantel and a solid fuel burning stove for cozy winter evenings.
  • Triple aspect views: The generous living room benefits from triple aspect windows and patio doors, flooding the interior with natural light and scenic vistas.
  • Modern kitchen fittings: The kitchen is equipped with eye and low-level units, tiled splash backs, an integrated dishwasher, and a built-in electric oven with a hob.
  • Dedicated utility: A separate utility room provides functional laundry space with plumbing for appliances and direct access to the rear of the property.
  • Vaulted entrance ceiling: The entrance hallway features an impressive high vaulted ceiling with recessed lighting and a glass panel door with a fan window.
  • Well-proportioned upstairs: The first floor contains two additional spacious bedrooms alongside a separate shower room to prevent morning congestion.
  • Eaves storage access: Bedroom three includes a dedicated eaves storage area, making it easy to keep seasonal items and luggage out of sight.
  • High standard decor: The interior has been decorated to a high standard throughout, meaning a new owner can move in with minimal immediate redecoration effort.
  • Stable asking price: The recorded asking price has remained stable at 180,000 euros, suggesting a straightforward pricing strategy without recent erratic fluctuations.
  • Detached privacy: As a detached family home constructed in 1999, it offers better sound insulation and privacy from neighbors than semi-detached alternatives.
  • Ample natural light: Multiple rooms feature double aspect windows or Velux rooflights that maximize sunlight penetration throughout the day.
  • Bathroom convenience: The house features three bathrooms in total, ensuring that family members and guests have easily accessible facilities on both floors.

But keep in mind:

  • Defective concrete blocks: The property listing explicitly warns that testing indicates concrete blocks are not fully compliant, requiring immediate expert review of the available report.
  • Substantial remediation risk: Due to the defective block findings, prospective buyers must carefully budget for potentially extensive structural remediation and engineering costs.
  • Moderate energy rating: The dwelling holds a D BER rating with an energy performance indicator of 228.87, indicating higher heating costs and poor thermal efficiency.
  • Future insulation upgrades: Achieving a more comfortable living environment will likely require significant investment in upgraded roof, wall, or window insulation.
  • Mortgage approval hurdles: Lenders frequently hesitate or refuse to finance properties with confirmed or suspected structural concrete issues, limiting buyer financing options.
  • Resale value uncertainty: Buying a home with known non-compliant blocks carries long-term marketability risks that could severely impact future resale value.
  • Roof window reliance: Upstairs bedrooms depend heavily on Velux windows for natural light, which can create solar heat gain in summer or noise during heavy rain.
  • Eaves space limitations: The slanted ceilings associated with the dormer design may limit furniture placement and standing headroom in upstairs rooms.
  • Rural septic dependency: Being located in a rural townland outside a main settlement, buyers should verify the status and capacity of the private wastewater treatment system.
  • Private water supply check: Prospective purchasers must investigate whether the property relies on a private well and test the water quality for safety.
  • Maintenance of grounds: Maintaining 0.52 acres of landscaped gardens and mature shrubs will demand ongoing physical effort or regular professional landscaping expenses.
  • Exposed coastal climate: The scenic coastal setting near Lough Swilly can expose the building envelope to harsh driving rain and high winds, increasing weathering.
  • Driveway upkeep: Stone chip driveways require periodic topping up and weed control to maintain a tidy appearance and prevent rutting over time.
  • Solid fuel reliance: Utilizing a solid fuel burning stove as a primary heat feature requires regular fuel sourcing, storage space, and chimney cleaning maintenance.
  • Limited ground bathroom size: The downstairs WC measures 2.2 by 1.0 meters, which is compact and strictly functional rather than spacious.
  • Hot press reliance: Hot water heating relies on a traditional hot press with an immersion, which may require careful management of electricity usage for water heating.
  • Eaves storage vulnerability: Eaves storage areas can sometimes be prone to temperature fluctuations and limited insulation, risking dampness for stored items.
  • Boundary verification needed: Buyers should inspect the legal mapping to ensure all landscaped garden areas and the timber sun house sit entirely within the title boundaries.
  • Building age considerations: Constructed in 1999, the property is over two decades old and certain fixtures like plumbing seals or electrical components may need upgrading.
  • Professional survey essential: Given the structural disclosure note, obtaining an independent structural engineer survey is non-negotiable before making any financial commitment.

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 undervalued relative to standard detached homes of this size primarily due to disclosed structural concerns regarding defective concrete blocks, which significantly impacts market value and buyer confidence.
  • Valuation signals point to a downward adjustment because the property has been tested and found not fully compliant, introducing substantial remediation uncertainty and repair costs for any prospective purchaser.
  • Support for this lower price level stems from the generous 0.52-acre scenic site and coastal views, while factors that could undermine even this modest valuation include escalating remediation estimates or mortgage lending restrictions.
  • Additional relevant market indicators show that surrounding properties command varying price points depending on their condition, making transparency on structural compliance critical for achieving a successful sale.

Build Analysis

What we know from similar construction types

  • The property is a detached dormer bungalow constructed in 1999, extending to approximately 136 sq. m. on a 0.52-acre site.
  • The listing explicitly notes that the property has been tested for defective concrete blocks and the results indicate that the blocks are not fully compliant, with a report available.
  • A buyer must thoroughly investigate the defective concrete block test report with a qualified structural engineer to understand the extent of any pyritic or mica-related damage, potential remediation costs, and eligibility for government redress schemes.

Retrofit Cost*

Possible renovating / insulating expenditure

  • The property has a BER rating of D, which places it in the D to G category requiring potential deep-retrofit consideration.
  • Given the floor area of approximately 136 sq. m., a comprehensive deep retrofit to bring the property to a B2 rating or higher—including upgraded insulation, heat pump installation, and window improvements—would typically cost between 35,000 and 55,000 euros, though actual costs will depend heavily on the findings regarding the concrete block compliance and structural integrity.

Heating cost*

Estimated expense to heat this property every year

  • Estimated annual heating cost is approximately 1,800 to 2,400 euro.
  • The property has a D BER rating and a floor area of 136 square metres, featuring a solid fuel burning stove in the living room alongside standard central heating, which influences the overall energy consumption.

Pollution Safe

9/10

Environmental situation to investigate

  • The property is located in a predominantly rural, scenic coastal area with no apparent major industrial facilities, incinerators, or active large-scale landfills nearby.
  • Given the rural setting, prospective buyers should verify local agricultural runoff factors and ensure private well or septic systems are properly inspected and maintained.

Flood Safe

8/10

Water overflow reports to follow up

  • The property occupies an elevated scenic setting overlooking Lough Swilly in County Donegal, which generally places it well above major coastal flood levels.
  • Official mapping shows no recorded flood zones immediately impacting this specific townland location near Rathmullan.
  • The detached dormer bungalow layout features ground-floor living areas that would benefit from localized surface water management during exceptionally heavy rainfall events.
Supporting evidence: Low

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

  • 1 MOORE COTTAGES, MEENREAGH, RATHMULLEN

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €220,000.00

Recent sales in the wider Rathmullan area

  • 2 BREFFINI COTTAGES, BALLYBOE, RATHMULLAN

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €200,000.00
  • 6 ABBEY VIEW RATHMULLAN, RATHMULLAN, DONEGAL

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €116,912.00
  • GLENCROSS, RATHMULLAN, DONEGAL

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €340,000.00
  • 11 KINNEGAR CLOSE, RATHMULLAN, DONEGAL

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €345,000.00
  • LEATHARDAN, RATHMULLAN, COUNTY DONEGAL

    Sale date
    Declared sale price
    €140,000.00

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: €1,800 — 1% of €180,000.
    ?
    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 3,000 euro plus VAT and outlays.
  • Land registration fees: approximately 400 to 800 euro depending on the property value and registration type.
  • Property valuation fees: approximately 150 to 300 euro.
  • Surveyor fees: approximately 400 to 1,000 euro, with specialized building engineering reports potentially costing more.
  • Annual home insurance: approximately 400 to 800 euro depending on coverage levels and location.

Forum Talk

What people are saying about this area

  • Local discussions around Rathmullan frequently highlight its appeal as a scenic coastal destination with strong community engagement and popularity as a holiday home location.
  • Residents often discuss local infrastructure updates, including road maintenance and community amenities managed by the Donegal County Council.
  • Property buyers in the wider Co. Donegal region frequently exchange advice on verifying local water supply quality and septic tank compliance in rural settings.
  • Discussions regarding rural properties in North Donegal often emphasize the importance of thorough structural surveys, particularly concerning legacy building materials and regional issues.

LifeFit Assessment

How well this property may suit your lifestyle

Family

7 areas
  • Young Children

    The property offers a generous 0.52-acre site with landscaped gardens, giving children plenty of outdoor play space. However, the stairs layout in a dormer bungalow and a rural location mean parents will need to be vigilant.

    6/10
  • Teenagers

    Three well-proportioned bedrooms and open living spaces provide decent room for growing teenagers, though the rural setting near Rathmullan means public transport options are limited for independent travel.

    6/10
  • Multi-generational Living

    Featuring a ground-floor bedroom with an ensuite, it offers good accessibility for an older family member. Total floor space of 136 sq m is adequate, but sharing a single main living area might feel restrictive for multiple generations.

    5/10
  • Single Buyers

    At an asking price of €180,000 for 136 sq m, it offers competitive space, but solo maintenance on a 0.52-acre site and a detached rural house can be demanding.

    5/10
  • Couples

    An attractive detached home with scenic Lough Swilly views, an open-plan kitchen and dining area, and a solid fuel stove make this a very comfortable setting for couples looking for space and tranquility.

    8/10
  • Empty Nesters

    Having a ground-floor bedroom and ensuite allows for single-level living capability if mobility declines, though the upper floor and garden upkeep require consideration.

    7/10
  • Retirees

    The peaceful scenic setting and ground-floor bedroom suit retirement well, though prospective buyers should verify local healthcare access and winter weather practicalities in rural Donegal.

    7/10

Work

3 areas
  • Remote Working

    The spacious layout allows for a comfortable home office setup, though buyers should verify local broadband speeds and reliability in this rural townland.

    7/10
  • Hybrid Commuting

    The remote location in Meenreagh, Co. Donegal, makes regular commuting to major employment hubs impractical.

    3/10
  • Retired

    An ideal setup for retirees seeking peace, scenic views, and a manageable single-level footprint option via the ground-floor bedroom.

    9/10

Practical

8 areas
  • Ageing in Place

    The inclusion of a ground-floor bedroom and ensuite bathroom makes single-floor living viable, though rural isolation in later years should be considered.

    7/10
  • Low Maintenance

    The interior is decorated to a high standard, but maintaining a 0.52-acre landscaped site and detached structure requires regular upkeep.

    6/10
  • Secure Gated Entry

    The property features a stone chip driveway and open access rather than a secure gated entry system.

    3/10
  • Minimalist Design

    Traditional dormer features such as a vaulted ceiling and a red brick fireplace give it a cosy, characterful feel rather than minimalist styling.

    5/10
  • Flexible Floor Plans

    The open-plan ground floor combined with three well-sized bedrooms and a separate utility room offers good functional flexibility.

    7/10
  • Heritage Home

    Constructed in 1999, this is a modern dormer bungalow rather than a period or heritage property.

    2/10
  • Ecological Setup

    The property carries a D BER rating, indicating that energy efficiency is average and could benefit from future upgrades.

    4/10
  • Outdoor areas

    A generous 0.52-acre plot featuring landscaped gardens, mature shrubs, and an included timber sun house provides fantastic outdoor amenity space.

    9/10

Interests

9 areas
  • Gardening

    The 0.52-acre site includes beautifully landscaped gardens to the front and rear with mature shrubs, plus a timber sun house, offering a great canvas for gardening enthusiasts.

    8/10
  • Walking

    The scenic rural roads and proximity to the coast around Rathmullan provide ample opportunities for scenic walks and outdoor exploration.

    8/10
  • Gym

    Dedicated fitness facilities are not close by, meaning residents would need to travel towards larger towns for commercial gym access.

    3/10
  • Cycling

    Quiet local country roads offer pleasant cycling routes, though rural hills and varying weather conditions should be factored in.

    7/10
  • Golf

    The region features notable golf links nearby in North Donegal, making it reasonably convenient for golf enthusiasts.

    6/10
  • Fishing

    Proximity to Lough Swilly and coastal waters provides excellent local opportunities for sea and shore fishing.

    8/10
  • Horse Riding

    Rural roads and open spaces lend themselves well to equestrian pursuits, though specialized livery yards would need to be verified locally.

    6/10
  • Water Sports

    Lough Swilly and nearby coastal spots are ideal for boating, kayaking, and other water-based activities.

    8/10
  • Entertaining

    The open-plan living, kitchen, and dining area combined with patio doors leading to the generous outdoor space make this an excellent home for hosting guests.

    8/10

Lifestyle

5 areas
  • Quiet Living

    Situated in the peaceful townland of Meenreagh, the property offers a high degree of privacy, minimal surrounding noise, and tranquil countryside surroundings.

    9/10
  • Rural Living

    Set on 0.52 acres of landscaped grounds roughly 4km from Rathmullan village, this property epitomizes rural Donegal countryside living.

    9/10
  • Village Living

    Rathmullan Village is less than 4km away, providing convenient access to local community amenities while retaining a countryside buffer.

    7/10
  • Coastal Living

    The property boasts lovely views of Lough Swilly and places the coastal attractions of the area within easy reach.

    8/10
  • Urban Living

    This is strictly a rural and scenic location far removed from city amenities, requiring a car for daily essentials.

    2/10

Social

6 areas
  • Community Involvement

    Proximity to Rathmullan village allows residents to plug into local community groups, sports clubs, and village events.

    7/10
  • Café Culture

    Rathmullan village provides local café options during peak seasons, but wider choices require traveling further afield.

    5/10
  • Nightlife

    Nightlife is limited to local village pubs and hotel venues, with minimal city-style entertainment options nearby.

    3/10
  • Health/Wellness groups

    Community-led wellness or fitness classes may be found in the village hall or nearby towns, but options are relatively sparse.

    5/10
  • Networking Opportunities

    The rural setting is heavily residential and leisure-oriented, offering very few local professional networking avenues.

    2/10
  • Tech-Hub Connectivity

    There are no major tech hubs in the immediate vicinity, making this location entirely dependent on remote digital connectivity.

    2/10

Listing information

Agent
Sherry FitzGerald Paul Reynolds
Phone
074 9122399
Current status
active
Published on HouseDelve
8 November 2026
Correction
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Property reference: HD-62632AHouseDelve · 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.