River Cottage, Feorus East, Kenmare, Co. KerryV93EW92
€315,000
1 Bed~51 m²~BER G
What you'll like:
- Charming historic character: Dating back to the early 1900s, this cottage retains delightful original features like flagstone floors and exposed wooden beams that offer authentic rustic appeal.
- Recent 2022/2023 renovations: Thoughtful modern improvements executed recently combine traditional charm with contemporary comforts, reducing immediate out-of-pocket upgrade needs for the incoming buyer.
- Substantial 1.13 acre plot: The property includes mature gardens, woodland, and a private paddock, providing an exceptionally peaceful rural setting and outdoor space.
- Generous workshop space: A separate 14 sqm workshop with a brand new roof replaced in 2023 offers fantastic potential for hobbies, crafts, or practical projects.
- Spacious garden shed: The 16 sqm shed features a concrete floor and double-height ceiling, delivering excellent additional storage solutions for outdoor gear and equipment.
- Impressive double-height living: The open-plan living area features soaring ceilings that create a wonderful sense of space and light uncommon in compact historic cottages.
- Powerful wood-burning stove: A substantial 25kW wood-burning stove with a natural stone beam provides a warm, characterful focal point and efficient primary heating.
- Abundant natural light: Velux windows strategically placed in the loft bedroom and living area ensure the interior spaces remain bright and inviting throughout the day.
- Versatile occasional room: Positioned just off the kitchen, this flexible secondary room can easily serve as a home office, study, hobby room, or guest sleeping space.
- Modernized shower room: The contemporary shower room features stylish tiled flooring and fully tiled walls, ensuring modern hygiene and comfort standards are met.
- Fibre broadband availability: High-speed fibre internet is reported as available in the local area, making remote working from this rural retreat entirely feasible.
- Convenient proximity to town: Situated approximately 8 to 9 kilometres from Kenmare heritage town, buyers enjoy complete tranquility while remaining close to shops and cafes.
- Scenic rural location: Feorus East offers a picturesque countryside setting in County Kerry, ideal for anyone seeking a peaceful holiday home or permanent escape.
- Original flagstone flooring: The kitchen preserves authentic flagstone floors, adding unique local character and historical authenticity that synthetic modern tiles cannot replicate.
- Functional boot room: A covered area set off the occasional room provides a practical space for shedding muddy boots and wet coats after rural walks.
- Deep window sills: The windows feature deep sills that enhance the cottage aesthetic and offer lovely spots for displaying plants or decor items.
- Compact manageable footprint: At 51 square metres, the main dwelling is easy to maintain and heat efficiently compared to larger, more demanding country houses.
- External half-glazed door: A charming half-glazed door leading directly from the dining area out into the garden seamlessly connects indoor and outdoor living spaces.
- Private countryside setting: The property enjoys high levels of privacy due to its mature surrounding greenery, shielding residents from nearby road traffic.
- Ideal holiday home potential: The combination of manageable size, scenic acreage, and proximity to Kenmare makes this a turnkey prospect for short-term rental investment.
But keep in mind:
- Extremely poor BER rating: The property carries a G energy rating with a high energy performance indicator, indicating severe thermal inefficiency that requires urgent remediation.
- Substantial insulation upgrades needed: Achieving an acceptable energy rating will likely demand extensive insulation works across walls, roof, and windows to reduce heating bills.
- Group water scheme reliability: The water supply relies on a local group water scheme, meaning buyers should investigate capacity, water quality consistency, and maintenance fees.
- Private septic tank compliance: Sewage is handled by a septic tank, requiring a specialist inspection to verify structural integrity and compliance with current environmental regulations.
- Loft bedroom ceiling height: The restricted headroom typical of loft spaces accessed via a wooden staircase may limit comfort and long-term usability for some occupants.
- Limited main bathroom facilities: The listing indicates a separate shower room and toilet, but buyers should verify if there is any bathtub or potential to improve layout flow.
- High heating dependence on wood: Relying primarily on a 25kW wood-burning stove requires consistent fuel sourcing, manual labor, and active management during colder winter months.
- Narrow rural access roads: Country roads around Feorus East can be narrow and winding, which might present driving challenges during adverse winter weather conditions.
- Historic property maintenance demands: Early 1900s construction methods mean ongoing vigilance is required to monitor damp, timber decay, and masonry maintenance.
- Unclear planning compliance: Buyers should instruct their solicitor to verify that all 2022/23 renovations and the workshop roof replacement received proper planning permission.
- Potential boundary verification needs: With 1.13 acres of woodland and paddock, a formal mapping check by a surveyor is essential to confirm exact property boundaries.
- Lack of central heating system: The primary heat source appears to be the wood burner, so buyers desiring conventional central heating should budget for a retrofit.
- Potential damp in older walls: Historic stone or rubble wall construction without modern damp-proof courses should be carefully checked by a qualified building surveyor.
- Remote emergency response times: The rural location means emergency services, medical assistance, or tradespeople may take longer to reach the property in a crisis.
- Storage heating electrical load: If electric heaters are used to supplement the stove, buyers should inspect the electrical distribution board and wiring capacity.
- Septic tank percolation area: The buyer must verify that the percolation area functions correctly and sits entirely within the property boundaries without neighbor disputes.
- Roof condition verification: While the workshop roof was replaced in 2023, the main cottage roof age and condition must be thoroughly inspected by an expert.
- Limited permanent wardrobe space: Compact cottage dimensions mean built-in storage is at a premium, requiring careful consideration for full-time living arrangements.
- Woodland maintenance overheads: Owning over an acre of woodland requires active management to deal with fallen trees, overgrowth, and potential fire safety hazards.
- Resale liquidity considerations: G-rated rural one-bedroom properties represent a niche market, which could influence future resale timelines compared to standard suburban homes.
Price positioning
?
- The asking price appears somewhat undervalued given the substantial acreage of over one acre and extensive outbuildings, which significantly enhance the overall utility and rural appeal compared to typical suburban entry-level cottages.
- Valuation signals are tempered by the exceptionally poor energy rating of BER G, indicating that a substantial capital investment will be required immediately to achieve acceptable standards of modern thermal efficiency and comfort.
- Support for this price point is bolstered by recent broader regional transactions for rural and semi-rural properties in the surrounding Kenmare area, whereas potential underperformance could be driven by high heating costs and upgrade expenses.
- Additional relevant factors include the charm of the early 1900s renovations, a desirable location close to Kenmare heritage town, and versatile ancillary spaces like the workshop and garden shed that add considerable lifestyle value.
Build Analysis
What we know from similar construction types
- The property is an early 1900s traditional cottage extending to approximately 51 m², featuring an open-plan layout, double-height ceilings, original flagstone flooring, and a loft bedroom.
- Renovations and improvements were carried out in 2022/2023, and the workshop roof was replaced in 2023.
- Heating relies on a 25 kW wood-burning stove, and the water supply is via a local group water scheme with a private septic tank.
- A buyer should investigate the compliance and condition of the septic tank, the structural integrity of the historic elements, the adequacy of insulation added during recent renovations, and any potential planning permissions required for the workshop and shed structures.
Retrofit Cost*
Possible renovating / insulating expenditure
- The property has a BER rating of G with a high energy performance indicator of 586.29 kWh/m²/yr, primarily due to its early 1900s cottage origins.
- A comprehensive deep retrofit for a 51 m² cottage to bring it up to a modern energy standard would likely cost between €30,000 and €50,000.
- Costs would cover external or internal wall insulation, roof/attic insulation, upgrading windows and exterior doors, installing a modern primary heating system to replace or supplement the wood-burning stove, and addressing airtightness and ventilation.
Heating cost*
Estimated expense to heat this property every year
- Estimated annual heating cost: €1,800 to €2,500. Given the G BER rating and an energy performance indicator of 586.29 kWh/m2/yr over a 51 m2 floor area, the property has high thermal energy demands. While the 25kW wood-burning stove can offset costs if timber is readily available, reliance on supplementary or primary electric heating for such a low energy rating will result in elevated heating expenses.
Pollution Safe
9/10Environmental situation to investigate
- The property is situated in a tranquil rural setting near Kenmare, well away from major industrial plants, incinerators, or heavy manufacturing zones.
- There are no apparent legacy industrial pollution or active landfill concerns in the immediate vicinity, though standard rural environmental checks are always advisable.
Flood Safe
8/10Water overflow reports to follow up
- The property is set in an elevated rural landscape with mature gardens and woodland, which generally reduces the likelihood of direct river or coastal flooding.
- As with many rural properties relying on local topography, buyers should verify localized surface water drainage during periods of heavy rainfall.
Recent Local Sales
Verified residential transactions published in the previous five years
Sales on the same street or estate
BILLOWS, FEORUS EAST, KENMARE
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €580,000.00
Recent sales in the wider Kenmare area
3 MOUNTAIN VIEW, SHEEN FALLS, KENMARE
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €560,000.00
31 OAKWOOD MANOR, KENMARE, KERRY
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €295,000.00
23 RIVERSIDE VILLAS, KENMARE, CO KERRY
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €265,000.00
33 HENRY STREET, KENMARE, CO. KERRY
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €267,000.00
KILLAHA WEST, KENMARE, KERRY
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €335,000.00
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: €3,150 (calculated at 1% of the asking price of €315,000 for residential property up to €1 million)
- Solicitor legal fees: Approximately €1,500 to €3,000 plus outlays and VAT
- Land registration fees: Approximately €600 to €800 depending on the property value and registry type
- Property valuation fees: Approximately €150 to €300 if required by a mortgage lender
- Surveyor fees: Approximately €500 to €1,200 depending on the level of detailed inspection required
- Annual home insurance: Approximately €400 to €800 depending on the policy coverage and rural location
Forum Talk
What people are saying about this area
- Local residents frequently discuss the charm and appeal of rural properties located just outside Kenmare.
- Community forums often highlight the scenic beauty and privacy offered by properties in the Feorus East area.
- Discussions in regional groups often touch upon the availability and reliability of local group water schemes.
- Buyers in rural Kerry frequently share tips on upgrading older properties to improve energy efficiency given lower BER ratings.
LifeFit Assessment
How well this property may suit your lifestyle
Family
7 areas- Young Children3/10
The property is a compact 1-bedroom cottage with a loft layout and only about 51 sqm of floor area, which is very restrictive for growing children, though the 1.13-acre site offers plenty of outdoor space to play.
- Teenagers2/10
With a single bedroom layout and limited indoor space, teenagers would find it cramped and lacking in privacy.
- Multi-generational Living1/10
The tiny footprint, single bedroom, and open-plan design make multi-generational living virtually impossible here.
- Single Buyers7/10
An ideal, highly characterful rural sanctuary for a single buyer looking for a manageable project and a peaceful lifestyle close to Kenmare.
- Couples7/10
Well-suited as a romantic holiday home or cosy permanent retreat for a couple, featuring a lovely open-plan living space and expansive gardens.
- Empty Nesters8/10
Great for downsizers wanting a tranquil country property with manageable indoor upkeep and large natural grounds to enjoy.
- Retirees6/10
Peaceful rural setting appeals to retirees, though the loft bedroom access and potential challenges of maintaining a 1.13-acre plot and older cottage features should be considered.
Work
3 areas- Remote Working7/10
Features an occasional room suitable for a home office, and fibre broadband is noted as available in the area, supporting remote setups.
- Hybrid Commuting3/10
The rural location roughly 8 km outside Kenmare makes regular commuting to major employment hubs impractical.
- Retired9/10
An exceptional escape for retirees seeking privacy, nature, and a slower pace of life in County Kerry.
Practical
8 areas- Ageing in Place4/10
The property features a loft bedroom accessed via a wooden staircase and a G-rated energy profile, which may present hurdles for long-term ageing in place without upgrades.
- Low Maintenance5/10
While recent improvements like a workshop roof replacement in 2023 help, maintaining an early 1900s cottage and 1.13 acres of grounds requires ongoing effort.
- Secure Gated Entry3/10
A private rural setting, but specific secure gated entry features are not highlighted in the listing.
- Minimalist Design7/10
The open-plan layout, exposed beams, and compact 51 sqm footprint lend themselves naturally to minimalist living.
- Flexible Floor Plans6/10
Includes an occasional room off the kitchen that can serve as a guest room, study, or hobby space.
- Heritage Home9/10
A charming and beautifully renovated cottage dating back to the early 1900s, retaining original flagstone flooring, stone fireplace, and character beams.
- Ecological Setup6/10
Features a 25kW wood-burning stove and extensive private grounds, though the G BER rating indicates poor thermal efficiency that a buyer should investigate upgrading.
- Outdoor areas10/10
Boasts approximately 1.13 acres of mature gardens, woodland, and paddock, complemented by a 14 sqm workshop and 16 sqm shed.
Interests
9 areas- Gardening9/10
Features approximately 1.13 acres of mature gardens, woodland, and paddock, alongside a garden shed and workshop for equipment.
- Walking8/10
The scenic rural surroundings near Kenmare provide lovely countryside walking and exploring opportunities right from the doorstep.
- Gym2/10
No dedicated indoor gym space within the modest cottage, requiring travel into Kenmare for fitness facilities.
- Cycling7/10
Quiet country roads surrounding the property offer pleasant cycling routes, though the distance to town involves hilly rural terrain.
- Golf5/10
Kenmare has local golfing amenities, but they require a short drive from this rural location.
- Fishing6/10
The Kerry region is renowned for fishing opportunities, though buyers should verify local river or sea access points.
- Horse Riding6/10
The paddock and rural acreage offer a country backdrop, though equestrian infrastructure would need to be established.
- Water Sports4/10
Proximity to the wider Kerry coastline allows for water sports access, but it is not directly on the water.
- Entertaining5/10
While the open-plan living and large outdoor grounds are great for small gatherings, the overall indoor living space is very compact.
Lifestyle
5 areas- Quiet Living10/10
Situated in a wonderfully private countryside location about 8 km from Kenmare, offering ultimate peace and quiet.
- Rural Living10/10
Set on 1.13 acres of mature gardens, woodland, and paddock, this property epitomises authentic rural Irish living.
- Village Living5/10
It is located in the countryside rather than a village, though the heritage town of Kenmare is roughly 8 km away for local amenities.
- Coastal Living3/10
While located in County Kerry, the setting is deeply rural inland rather than directly coastal.
- Urban Living1/10
Entirely removed from urban centres, offering a rural escape rather than city convenience.
Social
6 areas- Community Involvement6/10
Engagement relies on connecting with the broader rural community and nearby Kenmare town activities.
- Café Culture4/10
Café culture is absent immediately on-site, though an excellent selection can be found a drive away in Kenmare.
- Nightlife2/10
The property offers deep rural seclusion with no nightlife on hand, though Kenmare provides local pubs and restaurants.
- Health/Wellness groups4/10
Access to health and wellness classes requires traveling into the nearest town.
- Networking Opportunities2/10
Not suited for professional networking due to its isolated rural position.
- Tech-Hub Connectivity5/10
Fibre broadband is available in the area, helping bridge the gap for tech connectivity in a rural spot.
Listing information
- Agent
- Sherry FitzGerald Daly
- Phone
- 064 664 1213
- Published on HouseDelve
- 1 October 2026
- Correction
- Report an issue
HD-5B6629HouseDelve · 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.