
Site at 1 Ashgrove Avenue, Ballyvolane, Cork
€125,000
3 Bed~2 Bath
What you'll like:
- Full planning permission: Full planning permission was granted in July 2024 for a three-bedroom detached dormer bungalow, significantly reducing the regulatory risk and development timeline for the buyer.
- Defined floor area: The proposed dwelling design spans approximately 105 square meters, offering a practical and highly marketable layout for future occupants or resale buyers.
- Established residential setting: Situated as a side garden infill at an existing residential address, the plot benefits from pre-established neighbourhood infrastructure and mature surrounding amenities.
- Demolition scope included: The current planning permission covers the removal of existing domestic outbuildings, clearing the way for an unhindered construction start once conditions are met.
- Dedicated vehicular access: The approved plans provide for a new, separate vehicular entrance, ensuring independent parking arrangements and privacy for the newly constructed dwelling.
- Pedestrian entrance provision: New pedestrian access points are officially sanctioned in the planning layout, creating safe and distinct walkways for both the existing and proposed properties.
- Existing entrance adjustment: The scheme accounts for the modification of the current driveway setup, maintaining functionality for the host property without creating boundary disputes.
- Manageable acquisition cost: With an asking price of €125,000, the entry point is relatively low for a fully permitted development site in an established urban-adjacent suburb.
- Stable asking price: The tracked listing price has remained completely unchanged at €125,000 since observation began, suggesting a firm vendor stance and transparent initial valuation.
- No price inflation: The absence of upward price adjustments during the monitoring period indicates that the seller is not currently testing the market with aggressive speculative hikes.
- Ballyvolane location: Cork city outskirts placement offers strong commuter convenience while retaining suburban residential appeal, making finished homes attractive to future buyers.
- Detached property format: Designing a detached dormer bungalow rather than a semi-detached or terraced unit generally commands higher market interest and stronger ultimate valuation potential.
- Three-bedroom layout: A three-bedroom configuration directly targets the core family and first-time buyer demographic, ensuring robust future demand upon completion.
- Dormer bungalow style: The single-storey-over-dormer profile can appeal to downsizers as well as growing families, broadening the eventual target market for the completed home.
- Clear reference landmark: The inclusion of a nearby Eircode in the directions makes the plot exceptionally easy for contractors, surveyors, and prospective buyers to locate independently.
- Defined planning reference: The explicit planning reference number allows developers to easily pull the full local authority file and check all compliance conditions prior to purchase.
- Side garden utilization: Utilizing an oversized side garden maximizes land efficiency without requiring complex land assembly or the acquisition of multiple neighboring parcels.
- Ancillary site works included: The grant covers all associated site works, ensuring that necessary drainage, grading, and boundary adjustments are legally pre-approved.
- Direct vendor engagement: Working through an established local agency allows for streamlined communication regarding contract specifics and conditional sale terms.
- Independent development timeline: Buyers are not locked into a pre-packaged builder contract, allowing them to tender the construction phase independently to manage costs.
But keep in mind:
- Lack of BER rating: No Building Energy Rating has been provided, which is typical for a bare site but means future compliance costs for nearly zero-energy building standards must be independently budgeted.
- Construction cost volatility: Building a 105-square-meter detached home from scratch involves exposure to fluctuating material and labour costs that could heavily impact overall project margins.
- Development levies risk: The buyer should carefully verify whether local authority development contributions have been paid or remain outstanding under the planning reference.
- Connection fees uncertainty: Utility connections for water, electricity, and sewage must be verified for proximity and capacity, as connection fees can add unexpected capital expenses.
- Party wall considerations: Building close to an existing dwelling may trigger party wall or boundary agreements that require legal consultation and cooperation with the neighbour.
- Condition compliance checks: The buyer must inspect the planning permission conditions to ensure no onerous environmental, archaeological, or infrastructural constraints were attached.
- Demolition obligations: The requirement to demolish existing domestic garages and sheds introduces preliminary site-clearance costs before any new foundation work can begin.
- Traffic impact adjustments: Altering existing vehicular entrances requires strict adherence to local road safety standards, which could incur extra civil engineering expenses.
- Restricted site access: Infill sites often suffer from narrow construction access, potentially limiting the use of heavy machinery and increasing manual labour timelines.
- Uncertain final valuation: While the acquisition cost is €125,000, total all-in development costs must be weighed against local ceiling prices to ensure a profitable venture.
- Financing complexities: Securing a standard residential mortgage for a raw development site can be difficult, often requiring specialized self-build or development finance products.
- Planning expiration risk: Planning permissions have a limited lifespan, meaning the buyer must act quickly to commence works before the statutory permission period lapses.
- Unforeseen ground conditions: Sub-surface geotechnical testing is essential, as poor soil bearing capacity or high water tables could necessitate expensive foundation engineering.
- Boundary demarcation: Exact property lines should be verified by a professional land surveyor against the planning maps to prevent post-purchase encroachment disputes.
- Servitude and easements: The buyer should investigate whether any underground services cross the site that might restrict the placement of the new foundations.
- Stagnant pricing strategy: The lack of price movement could imply limited vendor flexibility, though it also reflects steady initial pricing rather than over-inflation.
- Limited floor area disclosure: The absence of a pre-calculated floor area in basic listing details places the burden entirely on the buyer to measure and verify dimensions from plans.
- Property type omission: The omission of a formal property type description in preliminary data underscores the need to independently verify title registry mapping.
- Contractual disclaimer reliance: Standard agent disclaimers emphasize that all details are for guidance only, leaving the buyer fully responsible for comprehensive pre-contract due diligence.
- Execution of ancillary works: Coordinating the simultaneous adjustments to existing vehicular entrances and new pedestrian gates requires careful contractor scheduling to minimize disruption.
Price positioning
?
- The asking price for this site appears notably conservative because it offers full planning permission for a detached three-bedroom dormer bungalow of 105 square meters, which typically commands a much higher finished market value in established suburban Cork residential areas.
- Valuation signals strongly indicate that purchasing a serviced site at this entry level leaves adequate margin for construction costs, professional fees, and developer profit, especially when compared to purchasing existing completed semi-detached or detached dwellings nearby.
- Potential factors that could support such an attractive guide price include the necessity for a buyer to manage construction risks, demolition works, and utility connections directly, which naturally deters inexperienced self-builders and reduces immediate buyer competition.
- Relevant considerations for prospective purchasers involve thoroughly verifying the precise conditions attached to the local authority planning reference and budgeting accurately for modern building inflation before committing to acquire this development opportunity.
Build Analysis
What we know from similar construction types
- The property is a site with full planning permission granted in July 2024 for a new three-bedroom detached dormer bungalow of approximately 105 sq.m.
- The development involves demolishing an existing domestic garage and outer shed, creating new vehicular and pedestrian entrances, and adjusting existing ones.
- A buyer should verify all conditions attached to Planning Reference No. 2342371 to ensure compliance with local authority requirements.
- As a new build project, a buyer must budget for construction costs, connection fees for utilities, and potential levies in addition to the site purchase price.
- Potential advantages of building a new home include modern energy efficiency standards, customisation of finishes, and lower maintenance costs compared to older properties.
Heating cost*
Estimated expense to heat this property every year
- Estimated annual heating cost: 1,200 to 1,800 euro.
- Explanation: This estimate is based on a proposed 105 sq.m. detached dormer bungalow constructed to modern building regulations, assuming standard energy efficiency standards upon completion.
Pollution Safe
8/10Environmental situation to investigate
Flood Safe
8/10Water overflow reports to follow up
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
8 ASHGROVE AVE, BALLYVOLANE, CORK
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €230,000.00
Recent sales in the wider Ballyvolane area
No verified results were found for this group in the previous five years.
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
- Solicitor legal fees: approximately 1,500 to 3,000 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 500 to 1,200 euro depending on the depth of the survey.
- Annual home insurance: approximately 350 to 700 euro for standard buildings and contents coverage.
Forum Talk
What people are saying about this area
- Residents in Ballyvolane frequently discuss local infrastructure developments and the ongoing need for improved traffic management and public transport links.
- Community forums often highlight the convenience of the area's proximity to Cork city centre while maintaining a suburban residential feel.
- Local discussions touch upon the steady growth of housing developments in the broader Ballyvolane and Mayfield districts.
- Neighbors share updates regarding local amenities, schools, and retail options available within a short commute.
LifeFit Assessment
How well this property may suit your lifestyle
Family
7 areas- Young Children7/10
A proposed three-bedroom detached dormer bungalow offering 105 sq.m. of space provides a practical layout for families with young children, though buyers should verify the safety and fencing of the site boundaries during construction.
- Teenagers6/10
Three bedrooms allow adequate space for a growing family, but the 105 sq.m. footprint may feel somewhat compact as children reach teenage years.
- Multi-generational Living3/10
The granted planning permission is for a standard three-bedroom dormer bungalow layout, which generally lacks the separate annexes or multi-generational flexibility typically required for extended family living.
- Single Buyers5/10
Purchasing a development site with planning permission involves self-build or contractor management risks and financing complexities that may not suit a first-time single buyer.
- Couples7/10
For couples looking to build their own custom home, a site with full planning permission already secured removes a significant administrative hurdle.
- Empty Nesters6/10
A brand new 105 sq.m. single-level or dormer home can offer low-maintenance living once built, though managing a construction project requires careful planning.
- Retirees5/10
While a new build allows for modern accessibility features to be incorporated, retirees should carefully consider the stress and timeline of managing a new construction project from scratch.
Work
3 areas- Remote Working7/10
Building a new home allows buyers to easily designate a dedicated home office space within the 105 sq.m. floor plan, though broadband connectivity should be verified.
- Hybrid Commuting7/10
The location in Ballyvolane offers practical access to Cork city transport routes for hybrid workers splitting time between home and an office.
- Retired5/10
The property is a development site requiring construction, which may be less appealing for retirees unless they partner with a reliable turnkey builder.
Practical
8 areas- Ageing in Place7/10
The granted planning permission for a detached dormer bungalow offers the potential for ground-floor bedroom and bathroom arrangements suitable for ageing in place.
- Low Maintenance8/10
A brand new 105 sq.m. home built to modern construction standards will require minimal maintenance in its initial years compared to older properties.
- Secure Gated Entry4/10
The planning details outline new vehicular and pedestrian entrances, but a secure gated boundary would need to be installed by the buyer if desired.
- Minimalist Design7/10
A new build provides a clean slate for buyers wishing to implement contemporary architectural finishes and minimalist interior design.
- Flexible Floor Plans7/10
With a total proposed size of 105 sq.m., the interior partitions can be tailored during the build phase to suit specific spatial requirements.
- Heritage Home1/10
This is a modern infill development site with planning permission for a new build rather than a period or heritage property.
- Ecological Setup6/10
New builds must comply with current building regulations regarding energy efficiency, though specific renewable installations like solar panels should be confirmed with the project plans.
- Outdoor areas6/10
The property occupies the side garden of an existing dwelling, creating a compact plot size where outdoor landscaping will need careful planning.
Interests
9 areas- Gardening6/10
As this is a new build on a side garden plot, buyers will have a blank canvas to design and landscape their own outdoor planting and garden areas.
- Walking5/10
Suburban walking is readily accessible from the location, though buyers should verify pedestrian infrastructure and footpaths connecting to wider recreational walking routes.
- Gym6/10
Proximity to Cork city and surrounding suburbs ensures reasonable access to commercial fitness facilities and local gyms.
- Cycling5/10
The suburban location allows for cycling, though commuters should evaluate local traffic conditions and dedicated cycle lane connectivity towards the city centre.
- Golf5/10
There are established golf courses within the broader Cork metropolitan area, requiring a short drive from Ballyvolane.
- Fishing4/10
While Cork offers regional angling opportunities, the immediate suburban site is not positioned directly adjacent to major fishing waters.
- Horse Riding3/10
Equestrian facilities are generally limited in this suburban setting, requiring travel further out into the Cork countryside.
- Water Sports3/10
Water sports activities require travel toward Cork harbour or coastal inlets rather than being accessible from the immediate location.
- Entertaining6/10
A newly constructed 105 sq.m. home provides an opportunity to design a modern open-plan kitchen and living space tailored for hosting guests.
Lifestyle
5 areas- Quiet Living6/10
Located on a side garden within an established residential area, the setting offers suburban convenience, though immediate construction activity will temporarily impact peace and quiet.
- Rural Living2/10
The property is situated in Ballyvolane, an established suburban environment rather than a rural setting.
- Village Living5/10
The location provides access to local suburban amenities while retaining a distinct residential neighbourhood feel.
- Coastal Living1/10
The location in Ballyvolane is inland within Cork and has no notable coastal proximity or characteristics.
- Urban Living7/10
Ballyvolane offers convenient access to Cork city amenities and transport infrastructure, making it well-suited for those seeking urban-adjacent convenience.
Social
6 areas- Community Involvement6/10
Being integrated into an established residential avenue provides natural opportunities to connect with local neighbours and community groups.
- Café Culture5/10
Local suburban conveniences are accessible, with broader café culture thriving closer to Cork city centre.
- Nightlife4/10
Ballyvolane is primarily a residential suburb, meaning residents will need to travel into Cork city for extensive nightlife options.
- Health/Wellness groups5/10
Standard community and wellness classes can be found within the wider suburban catchment area.
- Networking Opportunities5/10
Proximity to Cork city supports professional networking, though the immediate site is situated in a quiet residential side garden.
- Tech-Hub Connectivity6/10
Cork serves as a major regional tech and employment hub, making the general location practical for tech sector workers once broadband is installed.
Listing information
- Agent
- ERA Downey McCarthy
- Phone
- 021 490 5000
- Published on HouseDelve
- 7 October 2026
- Correction
- Report an issue
HD-D7D64FHouseDelve · 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.