'Rose Cottage', Ballyara, Killybegs, Co. Donegal
€240,000
3 Bed~1 Bath~60 m²~BER D1
What you'll like:
- Pristine interior condition: The property has been substantially renovated and comes to the market in immaculate condition, meaning buyers can move in immediately without incurring major upfront repair costs.
- Fully furnished sale: The house is offered for sale fully furnished, which provides convenience and potential cost savings for anyone looking for a turnkey holiday home or ready-to-rent property.
- Proximity to beach: Located within a two-minute drive of Fintra's Blue Flag beach, the cottage offers exceptional coastal access that will strongly appeal to holidaymakers and water-sports enthusiasts.
- Scenic coastal views: The setting features both mountain views and sea views, enhancing the daily living experience and long-term appeal of this tranquil rural retreat.
- Walk-in holiday retreat: Because the home is presented in such high-end condition with appliances and furniture included, it serves as an ideal low-maintenance weekend escape.
- Charming rural setting: Situated just outside Killybegs town in a peaceful rural location, the property offers privacy and quiet surroundings while remaining within easy reach of local amenities.
- Equipped utility shed: One of the two detached storage sheds is plumbed with a sink, washing machine, and tumble dryer, effectively functioning as a dedicated external utility room.
- Included garden equipment: The sale includes a lawnmower and gardening equipment stored in the sheds, making it straightforward for the new owner to maintain the surrounding lawns and orchard.
- Developed outdoor spaces: The grounds are fully developed featuring front lawns, a side orchard, ample parking, and a raised rear seating area designed to capture the sun.
- Modern heating system: The installation of a modern condensing oil burner indicates recent mechanical upgrades that should offer reliable home heating performance for the new owner.
- Durable external cladding: The exterior is clad with Iroko hardwood timber, which provides a durable, high-end natural aesthetic that ages well with proper ongoing maintenance.
- Attractive asking price: Priced at €240,000 with no recorded price drops, the property represents an accessible entry point into a scenic coastal region of County Donegal.
- Stable pricing strategy: The asking price has remained unchanged since tracking began, suggesting a firm vendor stance and a straightforward pricing approach without erratic fluctuations.
- Dual aspect living area: The main kitchen and sitting room features dual aspect windows, ensuring excellent natural light penetration throughout the main daily living space.
- Convenient town access: Being located just outside Killybegs ensures that local shops, pubs, and seafood dining are only a short drive away from your quiet country doorstep.
- Established outdoor storage: Two outside storage sheds provide secure accommodation for bicycles, surfboards, and other bulky recreational gear suited to this coastal region.
- Cozy electric stove: The sitting room area features an electric stove, creating a warm focal point for cozy evenings without the maintenance demands of an open solid fuel fire.
- Quality kitchen fittings: The kitchen is well-appointed with high and low level units, a breakfast counter, and integrated electric appliances, maximizing the functional layout of the compact space.
- Modern bathroom amenities: The shower room includes a chrome heated towel rail, an electric shower, and an illuminated mirror, offering contemporary comforts within the efficient footprint.
- Turnkey rental potential: The combination of a coastal location, three double bedrooms, and full furnishing makes this an attractive prospect for short-term holiday letting investments.
But keep in mind:
- Compact floor area: Measuring only 59.65 square metres, the property is relatively small, which may feel constrained for permanent family living or buyers requiring extensive storage space.
- D1 BER rating: A D1 Building Energy Rating indicates sub-optimal thermal efficiency, meaning the buyer should budget for future energy upgrades to reduce heating bills and improve comfort.
- Timber frame construction: Originally built in the 1970s as a timber-framed bungalow, the buyer should commission a specialized structural survey to assess the long-term integrity of the timber frame.
- Single bathroom setup: With only one shared shower room for three double bedrooms, busy households may experience morning bottlenecks and restricted privacy.
- Septic tank verification: Due to the rural location, buyers must verify the presence, condition, and regulatory compliance of any private septic tank or wastewater treatment system.
- Private water supply check: The buyer should investigate whether the property relies on a private well or a local group water scheme, and test the water quality accordingly.
- Rural isolation security: The peaceful rural location means the property may be vacant for periods if used as a holiday home, making security and remote monitoring worth considering.
- Ongoing timber maintenance: While Iroko hardwood is durable, the extensive timber cladding requires regular staining and protective treatments to prevent weathering in the damp coastal climate.
- Non-traditional mortgage hurdles: Some mainstream lenders may apply stricter lending criteria or require specialist reports for 1970s timber-framed rural dwellings.
- Limited expansion potential: Given the modest 59.65 square metre footprint and specific site boundaries, expanding the bungalow significantly could prove logistically challenging and costly.
- Exposed coastal weather: The scenic coastal location exposes the property to Atlantic winds and driving rain, which can accelerate wear and tear on exterior finishes.
- No separate formal dining: The open-plan kitchen and sitting room combines dining and lounging functions into a single 6m x 3.6m space, limiting furniture layout flexibility.
- Potential drainage issues: The fully developed lawns and sloping rural topography mean buyers should inspect surface water drainage around the foundations during heavy rainfall.
- Title and boundary check: Buyers' legal representatives should carefully inspect mapping and title deeds to ensure all outbuildings and parking areas fall strictly within owned boundaries.
- Limited local employment: Being situated near a fishing port and holiday area, permanent year-round local employment opportunities may be more restricted compared to major urban centres.
- Reliance on oil heating: The reliance on an oil-fired central heating system exposes the owner to fluctuating home heating oil prices common in rural Irish markets.
- Strict viewing arrangements: Viewings are strictly by appointment through the sole agent, which may require careful scheduling for buyers traveling from outside the county.
- Fixed asking price stance: The lack of asking-price movement since initial tracking suggests the vendor may currently hold firm expectations, limiting immediate bargaining leeway.
- High holiday-season traffic: Proximity to Fintra Blue Flag beach means local roads and the surrounding area can experience heavy seasonal traffic during peak summer weekends.
- Future retrofit costs: Upgrading the D1 energy rating to a modern standard will likely require external insulation, upgraded windows, or heat pump installation, entailing significant capital.
Price positioning
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- The asking price of €240,000 appears elevated for a three-bedroom timber-framed bungalow measuring under sixty square metres, sitting significantly above broader local recorded market transactions in the wider area.
- Valuation signals are driven by the property's pristine turn-key condition, extensive recent renovations featuring Iroko hardwood cladding, and inclusion of furnishings, appliances, and external storage sheds in the sale.
- Support for this price point relies heavily on strong holiday-home demand or buyer willingness to pay a substantial premium for proximity to Fintra Beach, scenic views, and immediate move-in readiness without further capital expenditure.
- Conversely, factors that could undermine this valuation include the D1 energy rating, compact floor area, and a lack of flexible expansion room, which may deter buyers seeking year-round family homes at this price bracket.
Build Analysis
What we know from similar construction types
- The property is a timber-framed bungalow originally built in the 1970s and subsequently renovated, featuring an Iroko hardwood timber external cladding.
- A modern condensing oil burner has been recently fitted, which should improve heating efficiency.
- Buyers should investigate the structural condition of the 1970s timber frame, check for any history of moisture ingress or timber decay, and verify compliance with current building and insulation standards.
- Given the coastal location in County Donegal, buyers should verify the condition of the exterior timber cladding and check for any weather-related wear or maintenance requirements.
- Planning and local compliance for the detached storage sheds and any alterations made during the recent renovations should be verified by a surveyor or legal representative.
Retrofit Cost*
Possible renovating / insulating expenditure
- The property has a BER rating of D1, indicating that energy performance falls below modern standards and would benefit from a deep retrofit.
- A comprehensive deep retrofit for a detached bungalow of approximately 60 square metres typically ranges from €30,000 to €50,000, depending on the extent of works required.
- Key measures would likely include upgrading external wall insulation (particularly considering the timber-frame and hardwood cladding structure), installing high-performance double or triple-glazed windows and exterior doors, upgrading attic insulation, and potentially integrating renewable energy systems such as solar panels or a heat pump to significantly improve the energy rating.
Heating cost*
Estimated expense to heat this property every year
- Estimated annual heating cost: €1,200 to €1,800.
- Explanation: Given the property has a D1 BER rating and a floor area of approximately 59.65 m² featuring a modern condensing oil burner and electric stove, energy consumption will be influenced by oil prices and individual usage habits in this rural location.
Pollution Safe
9/10Environmental situation to investigate
Flood Safe
8/10Water overflow reports to follow up
- The property is situated in an elevated rural position featuring both mountain and sea views, which generally reduces surface flood vulnerability.
- Given the coastal proximity near Fintra, buyers should review local flood maps and verify coastal or surface water drainage conditions with the local authority.
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 Killybegs area
6 ST CUMMIN'S HILL, KILLYBEGS, CO DONEGAL
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €80,000.00
BALBANE, KILLYBEGS, CO DONEGAL
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €77,500.00
CLOUGHEY COTTAGE, THE BRAES, KILLYBEGS
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €95,000.00
CLOUGHEY COTTAGE FLAT, THE BRAES, KILLYBEGS
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €20,000.00
63 CONLIN RD, KILLYBEGS, DONEGAL
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €174,000.00
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: €2,400 — 1% of €240,000.
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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 plus VAT and outlays.
- Land registration fees: approximately €400 to €800 depending on the property value and registration type.
- Property valuation fees: approximately €150 to €300 for mortgage or independent valuation.
- Surveyor fees: approximately €500 to €1,200 depending on the level of detail and type of survey conducted.
- Annual home insurance: approximately €350 to €700 depending on the level of contents and buildings coverage chosen.
Forum Talk
What people are saying about this area
- Locals in the Killybegs area frequently highlight the strong sense of community and the appeal of living close to scenic coastal spots like Fintra Beach.
- Residents often discuss the bustling nature of Killybegs as Ireland's premier fishing port, contributing to a vibrant local economy and marine tourism.
- Community forums frequently mention the peaceful, rural character of outlying townlands like Ballyara, while noting the convenience of being just a short drive from town amenities.
- Traffic and seasonal visitors during the summer months near popular coastal amenities are occasional topics of local discussion.
LifeFit Assessment
How well this property may suit your lifestyle
Family
7 areas- Young Children5/10
The property offers safe outdoor lawns and proximity to a Blue Flag beach, but the 59.65 m² floor area is compact for a growing family with young children.
- Teenagers4/10
Three bedrooms provide individual sleeping spaces, but the single compact bathroom and limited overall indoor footprint may feel cramped for teenagers.
- Multi-generational Living2/10
With only one bathroom and a total floor area of under 60 square metres, multi-generational living is highly impractical here.
- Single Buyers8/10
A manageable, fully furnished three-bedroom bungalow in pristine condition represents an accessible and appealing option for single buyers.
- Couples9/10
An ideal setup for couples looking for a peaceful rural retreat, offering spare bedrooms for guests or a home office.
- Empty Nesters9/10
Single-story bungalow living makes this an excellent choice for empty nesters wanting to downsize without sacrificing garden space.
- Retirees9/10
The single-level layout removes the challenge of stairs, while the peaceful rural location and manageable garden suit retirement living well.
Work
3 areas- Remote Working7/10
The three-bedroom layout allows for a dedicated home office, though buyers should verify local broadband speeds for remote working suitability.
- Hybrid Commuting3/10
The rural Co. Donegal location involves significant travel times to major employment cities, making regular commuting impractical.
- Retired10/10
A peaceful single-story bungalow that is well-suited for retirement living.
Practical
8 areas- Ageing in Place9/10
Single-level bungalow living without stairs makes this layout very practical for ageing in place.
- Low Maintenance8/10
Substantially renovated in recent years, featuring Iroko hardwood timber cladding and a modern condensing oil burner.
- Secure Gated Entry3/10
The property relies on standard rural boundary setups rather than secure gated entry.
- Minimalist Design6/10
A compact footprint helps keep upkeep simple, though the cottage style features traditional rather than ultra-minimalist detailing.
- Flexible Floor Plans5/10
The 59.65 m² area offers a straightforward layout of three bedrooms and a combined kitchen/sitting room with limited flexibility for major reconfiguration.
- Heritage Home4/10
Originally built in the 1970s, it has been substantially modernised rather than retaining historic heritage features.
- Ecological Setup6/10
Equipped with a modern condensing oil burner, though buyers should verify overall energy efficiency metrics beyond the D1 BER rating.
- Outdoor areas9/10
Includes fully developed lawns, an orchard, two storage sheds, a raised rear sun trap, and a paved front seating area.
Interests
9 areas- Entertaining7/10
Features an elevated raised sun trap seating area at the rear, a paved front patio, and is offered fully furnished for hosting.
- Gardening9/10
The property features fully developed grounds with lawns, an orchard, and includes gardening equipment and a lawnmower in the sale.
- Walking8/10
Proximity to the coast and scenic local countryside provides good opportunities for recreational walking.
- Gym3/10
The rural location lacks dedicated local gym facilities within immediate walking distance.
- Cycling6/10
Quiet country roads offer scenic cycling routes, though the rural topography and distance from major hubs are factors to consider.
- Golf4/10
Access to golf courses requires travelling further afield from this rural location.
- Fishing9/10
The property's coastal positioning near a major fishing port town like Killybegs is ideal for fishing enthusiasts.
- Horse Riding5/10
Rural surroundings offer potential for equestrian activities, though buyers should verify local stables and trail availability.
- Water Sports9/10
Being within a two-minute drive of Fintra's Blue Flag beach makes this an exceptional location for water sports.
Lifestyle
5 areas- Quiet Living10/10
Situated in a peaceful rural location just outside Killybegs, offering a quiet environment with scenic mountain and sea views.
- Rural Living10/10
A quintessential rural setting featuring fully developed grounds, an orchard, and proximity to natural coastal landscapes.
- Village Living6/10
While not directly in a village, the property is just a short drive from Killybegs town conveniences.
- Coastal Living9/10
Located within a two-minute drive of Fintra's Blue Flag beach and boasting sea views, catering well to coastal enthusiasts.
- Urban Living2/10
The rural, countryside setting offers very little connection to vibrant urban life.
Social
6 areas- Community Involvement6/10
Proximity to Killybegs allows participation in local town community groups and events.
- Café Culture5/10
Local amenities in nearby Killybegs provide basic café options, though urban-style café culture is limited.
- Nightlife3/10
The quiet rural setting offers minimal local nightlife outside of traditional town pubs.
- Health/Wellness groups4/10
Access to structured wellness groups requires travelling toward the main town area.
- Networking Opportunities2/10
Rural isolation limits professional networking opportunities locally.
- Tech-Hub Connectivity2/10
Far removed from major technological hubs and innovation centres.
Listing information
- Agent
- Henry Kee & Son
- Phone
- 074 9131050
- Current status
- active
- Published on HouseDelve
- 14 October 2026
- Correction
- Report an issue
HD-B65BE0HouseDelve · 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.