
Railway View, Ballinacourty, Castleconnell, LimerickV94X4CW
€160,000
2 Bed~1 Bath~62 m²~BER G
What you'll like:
- Generous site acreage: The property sits on approximately 0.5 acres, offering substantial outdoor space that is relatively rare for a compact cottage and provides excellent room for future landscaping.
- Compact footprint: Extending to about 62.2 square meters, the single-level dwelling offers a manageable scale for renovation, keeping initial material costs lower than larger homes.
- Traditional cottage character: The structure retains classic architectural features that can be highlighted during a restoration, creating a charming final aesthetic for the new owner.
- Extension potential: The large plot provides plenty of physical space to design and build a substantial extension, subject to securing the necessary local planning permissions.
- Detached storage shed: An existing outbuilding on the grounds offers immediate secure storage for construction tools and materials during the upcoming renovation works.
- Established outdoor grounds: The site already features mature trees and shrubs, giving the garden an established feel rather than starting completely from bare earth.
- Refurbishment grant eligibility: The property is noted as likely qualifying for various government renovation grants, which could significantly offset the heavy costs of modernization.
- Single-level layout: Accommodation is arranged entirely on one floor, making it convenient for future accessibility and simplifying the structural builder's renovation tasks.
- Semi-detached footprint: Sharing a boundary may reduce exterior wall exposure on one side, while still leaving ample surrounding grounds for independent private use.
- Attractive entry price: Listed at €160,000, the low initial acquisition cost leaves a realistic financial margin for buyers to invest heavily in structural upgrades.
- Recent price reduction: The asking price was recently lowered by €5,000 from €165,000, indicating a motivated seller who may be open to further sensible negotiations.
- Rural yet accessible setting: Situated near Castleconnell in County Limerick, the location combines peaceful countryside living with proximity to local towns and services.
- Mains water connection: The presence of a mains water supply eliminates the initial uncertainty and expense of drilling a private well for the property.
- Clear project scope: Because the home requires complete modernization, buyers have a blank canvas to design the interior layout and finishes entirely to their own taste.
- Investment upside: Successfully renovating a G-rated cottage on a half-acre site can yield a significantly higher market value upon completion than the total outlay.
- Private yard space: The spacious yard area offers practical off-street parking potential and secure vehicle turning room once cleared and surfaced.
- Manageable demolition: The small interior scale means gutting the property to stone walls will be faster and less labor-intensive than handling a larger multi-story home.
- Local amenities nearby: Castleconnell offers schools, shops, and river walks within reasonable driving distance, supporting a comfortable lifestyle after renovation.
- Direct agent representation: Being handled by a known regional estate agent ensures straightforward communication channels for arranging viewings and submitting formal offers.
- Flexible project timeline: Unoccupied and in need of total works, buyers can phase their renovation budget over time without interrupting a current living situation.
But keep in mind:
- Extremely poor BER rating: The property holds a G energy rating with a very high energy performance indicator of 579.77 kWh/m²/yr, indicating severe insulation and thermal efficiency deficits.
- Complete renovation required: The listing explicitly states the home needs complete modernization throughout, meaning buyers must budget for a total gut-out and rebuild of interiors.
- Septic tank infrastructure: Drainage relies on a septic tank which will require professional inspection to ensure it meets current environmental standards or needs total replacement.
- Solid fuel heating limitations: The existing heating system is solid fuel, which is outdated and will need to be replaced entirely with a modern, efficient heat source.
- Planning permission uncertainty: While the site is large, any major structural extension remains subject to local authority planning approval, which is never guaranteed.
- Hidden structural defects: Given its derelict or semi-derelict state, buyers should thoroughly investigate potential rising damp, roof timber rot, and masonry cracks.
- Asbestos risk in older builds: Older cottages undergoing renovation frequently contain hazardous materials like asbestos in roof tiles or old insulation that require specialist removal.
- Upfront capital intensity: The low purchase price must be balanced against the massive cash injection required before the property becomes safe and habitable.
- Limited existing accommodation: With only two bedrooms and one bathroom in 62.2 square meters, the current layout is cramped by modern standards without an extension.
- Uncertain timeline for works: Securing contractors, planning approvals, and grant approvals can cause extensive delays before a builder can actually make the cottage liveable.
- Utility connection costs: Bringing electricity, upgraded plumbing, and modern broadband up to current building standards will add substantial unplanned expenses to the budget.
- Boundary fence verification: Buyers must verify legal folio maps to ensure all established trees, shrubs, and the detached shed sit securely within the owned title boundaries.
- Local planning restrictions: County Limerick planning guidelines may impose strict design criteria on extensions or alterations for rural properties, limiting architectural choices.
- Temporary housing costs: Because the home is entirely uninhabitable in its current condition, buyers will likely need to rent nearby while the works are completed.
- Vermin and pest damage: Vacant properties often suffer from rodent infestations or weather ingress, which can compromise remaining wooden structural elements.
- Access road limitations: Narrow rural lanes leading to the property should be inspected to ensure heavy construction traffic and concrete mixers can reach the site safely.
- Surface water drainage: The large yard and garden areas should be checked for proper run-off slope to prevent pooling or dampness affecting the cottage foundations.
- Insurance availability: Obtaining comprehensive building insurance for a vacant, G-rated property undergoing heavy renovation can be expensive and subject to strict conditions.
- Asking price history volatility: The recent €5,000 price drop reflects adjusting expectations, but buyers should conduct thorough local comparable research to confirm true market value.
- Specialist contractor demand: Finding reliable tradespeople willing to take on a rural cottage renovation project can be difficult amid current regional labor shortages.
Price positioning
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- The asking price appears somewhat elevated relative to the baseline land value because the dwelling requires extensive capital expenditure for complete structural and internal renovation to achieve habitable standards.
- Valuation signals are mixed between the attractive half-acre site size offering future expansion potential and the severe G energy rating indicating substantial remediation costs before occupancy.
- Support for this price point relies heavily on potential purchasers leveraging government refurbishment grants, whereas high material inflation and construction delays could severely undermine project viability.
- The recent price reduction from one hundred sixty-five thousand to one hundred sixty thousand euros suggests realistic seller adjustment in response to initial market feedback on the renovation burden.
Build Analysis
What we know from similar construction types
- The property is a traditional semi-detached cottage extending to approximately 62 square metres and is in need of complete renovation and modernisation throughout.
- A buyer should investigate the condition of the structural walls, roof, and foundations, given the requirement for extensive refurbishment.
- The services include mains water, solid fuel heating, and a septic tank; a buyer must verify the structural integrity and current regulatory compliance of the septic tank system.
- The property occupies a generous site of approximately 0.5 acres with a detached storage shed, offering potential for an extension subject to obtaining the necessary planning permission.
Retrofit Cost*
Possible renovating / insulating expenditure
- The property has a BER rating of G with a high energy performance indicator of 579.77 kWh/m2/yr, indicating that a whole-house deep retrofit is necessary.
- A comprehensive deep retrofit including extensive insulation, window and door replacements, heating system upgrade, and ventilation improvements for a 62.2 square metre cottage is estimated to cost between 45,000 and 70,000 euros.
- Actual costs may vary depending on material choices and contractor pricing, though the property may qualify for available government refurbishment grants to help offset these expenses.
Heating cost*
Estimated expense to heat this property every year
- Estimated annual heating cost: over 2,500 euro due to the G energy rating, poor thermal insulation, solid fuel heating system, and small floor area of 62.2 square metres requiring major modernization.
Environmental checks
Area-level evidence and things to investigate
Air quality
Nearby sites
Landfills
None foundWaste facilities
None foundIndustrial facilities
None foundNearby infrastructure
Mobile phone masts
None foundOverhead electricity lines
None foundUnderground electricity cables
None foundFlood Safe
6/10Water overflow reports to follow up
- The property is located in the general Castleconnell area near the River Shannon corridor, a region known for high water levels during prolonged periods of heavy winter rainfall.
- Official mapping does not currently place this specific site within a designated flood zone, suggesting a moderate baseline level of protection from major river overflow.
- Given the traditional cottage build and low-lying geography common to parts of the Shannon catchment, any future renovation plans should factor in local drainage capacity during extreme weather.
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 Ballinacourty area
2 CASTLECOURT, CASTLECONNELL, LIMERICK
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €492,000.00
32 CASTLEROCK AVENUE, CASTLECONNELL, CO. LIMERICK
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €400,000.00
GARDENHILL, CASTLECONNELL, LIMERICK
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €635,000.00
14 CASTLEROCK DR, CASTLECONNELL, LIMERICK
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €456,000.00
9 COOLBANE WOOD, CASTLECONNELL, CO LIMERICK
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €733,000.00
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: €1,600 — 1% of €160,000.
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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 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 for a standard mortgage or purchase valuation.
- Surveyor fees: approximately 600 to 1,200 euro, noting that a more detailed structural survey is recommended given the property requires complete renovation.
- Annual home insurance: approximately 400 to 800 euro, though comprehensive building insurance for a vacant or under-renovation property should be verified.
Forum Talk
What people are saying about this area
- Local community discussions in the Castleconnell and broader Limerick areas frequently highlight the growing interest in traditional cottage renovation projects, particularly among buyers looking to take advantage of government refurbishment grants.
- Residents on local forums often note the strong demand for properties with substantial site sizes, such as this half-acre plot, which offer the potential for future extensions subject to planning permission.
- Property commentators and local groups frequently discuss the challenges and timelines involved in upgrading properties with a G energy rating to modern efficiency standards.
- Discussions regarding the local housing market in East Limerick often point to modest price adjustments by sellers, reflecting realistic pricing strategies for fixer-upper properties needing complete modernisation.
LifeFit Assessment
How well this property may suit your lifestyle
Family
7 areas- Young Children3/10
The property requires complete renovation and modernisation throughout, presenting safety hazards and an unsuitable living environment for young children until extensive works are finished.
- Teenagers3/10
With only 62.2 square metres of floor space and a single bathroom, space is limited for teenagers, and the extensive renovation needs will disrupt normal household routines.
- Multi-generational Living1/10
At just 62.2 square metres with two bedrooms and one bathroom, the layout is far too small to accommodate multi-generational living arrangements comfortably.
- Single Buyers7/10
A single buyer with a vision and budget for a major renovation project could find this an appealing entry-level opportunity to create a bespoke home on a generous site.
- Couples6/10
Couples willing to take on a significant fixer-upper project will find potential here, though living through a total modernisation process presents substantial challenges.
- Empty Nesters5/10
The single-level accommodation appeals to those looking to downsize stairs, but the heavy renovation workload requires significant energy, time, and project management.
- Retirees4/10
While single-level living is a plus for retirees, the property's severe state of disrepair requiring complete modernisation makes it a daunting undertaking for older buyers.
Work
3 areas- Remote Working4/10
The property requires extensive modernisation, and buyers should verify the availability of high-speed broadband infrastructure necessary for reliable remote working.
- Hybrid Commuting5/10
The location provides access to regional transport routes, but commuting times will depend heavily on your exact workplace destination and local traffic patterns.
- Retired5/10
Single-level accommodation suits retirement needs, but managing a heavy renovation project can be physically demanding for retirees.
Practical
8 areas- Ageing in Place6/10
The accommodation is arranged entirely on one level, which is ideal for ageing in place, provided the complete renovation incorporates modern accessibility features.
- Low Maintenance1/10
The property is sold in need of complete renovation and modernisation, featuring a G BER rating and a septic tank, meaning maintenance demands will be exceptionally high initially.
- Secure Gated Entry2/10
There is no mention of secure gated entry, leaving boundary security to be established by the new owner.
- Minimalist Design3/10
This is a traditional cottage structure with established character, meaning achieving a sleek minimalist aesthetic would require significant architectural intervention.
- Flexible Floor Plans4/10
With a compact 62.2 sq m footprint across two bedrooms and one bathroom, floor plan flexibility is constrained, though an extension could be explored subject to planning permission.
- Heritage Home7/10
The property possesses traditional cottage character, offering a classic vernacular style for buyers interested in restoring older heritage structures.
- Ecological Setup2/10
The property currently holds a G BER rating with an energy performance indicator of 579.77 kWh/m²/yr, requiring massive energy upgrades to achieve an ecological setup.
- Outdoor areas8/10
The generous site of c. 0.5 acres includes a spacious yard, garden areas, established trees, shrubs, and a detached storage shed, offering superb outdoor space.
Interests
9 areas- Gardening8/10
The generous site of approximately 0.5 acres featuring established trees, shrubs, and a spacious yard offers fantastic potential for avid gardeners.
- Walking6/10
The surrounding countryside offers pleasant rural walking routes, though local pedestrian infrastructure may vary and should be checked.
- Gym2/10
Dedicated fitness and gym facilities will require travel to nearby towns, as none are immediately integrated into the immediate rural setting.
- Cycling5/10
Local country roads can be suitable for cycling enthusiasts, though narrow rural lanes require caution regarding vehicular traffic.
- Golf4/10
Golf enthusiasts will need to travel to regional clubs, as there are no courses directly adjacent to the property.
- Fishing7/10
The proximity to the River Shannon region around Castleconnell historically offers notable local angling opportunities worth investigating.
- Horse Riding6/10
The rural environment and spacious grounds could potentially support equestrian interests, subject to local stable availability and lane suitability.
- Water Sports4/10
While the River Shannon is nearby, specific water sports facilities will require independent local exploration.
- Entertaining4/10
The current interior layout requires complete renovation before it can host guests, though the large outdoor grounds offer future potential for garden entertaining.
Lifestyle
5 areas- Quiet Living8/10
Located in Ballinacourty, Castleconnell, the setting offers a peaceful rural or semi-rural ambiance away from heavy urban hustle and bustle.
- Rural Living7/10
The generous site of approximately 0.5 acres provides a distinctly rural feel, though buyers should verify local infrastructural connections and surroundings.
- Village Living6/10
Situated near Castleconnell, the location offers reasonable proximity to village amenities, balancing country character with community access.
- Coastal Living1/10
The inland location in County Limerick offers no proximity to the coast or marine amenities.
- Urban Living2/10
This is firmly a countryside cottage setting rather than an urban location, offering minimal access to city-center conveniences.
Social
6 areas- Community Involvement6/10
Proximity to Castleconnell provides opportunities to engage with local community groups, clubs, and rural village life.
- Café Culture3/10
Local café options are limited immediately around the property and typically require a trip into nearby village or town centers.
- Nightlife1/10
Nightlife options are virtually nonexistent in this quiet rural pocket, requiring travel to larger urban centers.
- Health/Wellness groups3/10
Organized wellness groups or classes will necessitate travel into nearby towns, as the immediate rural setting lacks these amenities.
- Networking Opportunities2/10
Professional networking is minimal in this rural setting, making it unsuited for those seeking local business networking events.
- Tech-Hub Connectivity2/10
There are no local tech hubs nearby, meaning remote professionals must rely entirely on their own home internet connections.
Listing information
- Agent
- REA John Lee
- Phone
- 061 378 121
- Current status
- active
- Published on HouseDelve
- 9 November 2026
- Correction
- Report an issue
HD-901E72HouseDelve · 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.