
The Arches, Birr Road, Shinrone, Birr, Co. OffalyR42DW66
€355,000
4 Bed~3 Bath~177 m²~BER D
What you'll like:
- Generous floor area: Measuring approximately 177 square meters, this detached bungalow provides spacious family accommodation that avoids the cramped feel of modern builds.
- Substantial private site: Set on a generous 0.84-acre plot, the gardens surround the property completely and offer excellent privacy without being overlooked.
- Distinctive architectural character: Featuring unique front arches, the house offers strong curb appeal and individuality compared to standard suburban housing developments.
- Walking distance amenities: Positioned right on the edge of Shinrone village, residents enjoy easy foot access to the local primary school, community center, and modern supermarket.
- Dual living spaces: The inclusion of both a separate living room and a sitting room gives families valuable flexibility for entertaining and relaxing.
- Convenient local access: Located just a short drive from both Roscrea and Birr, the property balances quiet rural living with everyday town convenience.
- Strong commuter links: The property is well-positioned to access primary regional roads connecting easily to major motorways toward Dublin, Limerick, and Cork.
- Extensive storage garage: A very large detached garage on the grounds provides exceptional space for vehicle parking, hobbies, or domestic storage needs.
- Tarmacadam driveway: The finished driveway offers a clean, durable parking surface and enhances the overall low-maintenance appeal of the front exterior.
- Well-maintained interior: The home has been carefully preserved over the years and features a neat, neutral painted palette ready for immediate occupation.
- En-suite primary bedroom: The main bedroom includes a private en-suite bathroom, adding a touch of daily convenience for the household heads.
- Practical utility room: A generously sized utility room supports household chores and helps keep the main kitchen area organized and clutter-free.
- Solid traditional construction: Built in 1984 using traditional block cavity wall methods, the structure offers reliable permanence and straightforward future maintenance.
- Secure setting feel: The combination of perimeter boundaries and a private gated approach creates a reassuring sense of security for residents.
- Natural light flow: Generous window proportions throughout the layout ensure bright interior spaces that maximize daylight hours effectively.
- Established garden maturity: The large surrounding lawns feature mature boundaries that immediately provide a settled, established country feel.
- Quiet edge location: Situated on the approach road to the village, the property enjoys minimal passing traffic while remaining closely connected to neighbors.
- Scope for enhancement: While perfectly habitable now, the property offers clear potential for future cosmetic upgrades to match contemporary design preferences.
- Dedicated boiler room: A separate boiler housing keeps heating mechanics out of main living spaces and simplifies routine servicing access.
- Family-friendly layout: All four bedrooms are located on a single level, making the home highly practical for families with young children or aging relatives.
But keep in mind:
- Sub-optimal energy rating: The current D BER rating indicates poor thermal efficiency, which means buyers should budget for immediate insulation upgrades.
- Private drainage system: The property relies on a septic tank, requiring a buyer to commission a professional inspection to verify compliance and condition.
- Single-layer glazing risk: Double glazing is noted, but buyers should check the exact age and seal integrity of the windows to prevent heat loss.
- Older heating installation: The oil-fired central heating system may be dated, so purchasers should test the boiler efficiency and anticipate eventual replacement costs.
- Elevated energy consumption: With an energy performance indicator over 260 kWh/m2/yr, utility bills are likely to be high until deep retrofits are completed.
- Roof insulation review: Buyers must inspect the attic space to confirm current insulation depths meet modern standards for heat retention.
- Plumbing system check: Homes built in 1984 may feature older copper or galvanized pipework that warrants a thorough pre-purchase plumbing survey.
- Electrical wiring verification: The fuse board and wiring circuits should be professionally tested to ensure they meet current safety regulations and household loads.
- Boundary fence checks: The large 0.84-acre site requires careful legal verification of all boundary lines and associated maintenance responsibilities.
- Septic tank registration: Buyers need to confirm that the on-site wastewater treatment system is properly registered with local authorities to avoid legal penalties.
- Surface water drainage: Given the large garden area, purchasers should verify that rainwater run-away and soakaways function correctly during heavy weather.
- Chimney and flue condition: Open fires or stoves should be inspected for structural soundness and swept to ensure safe operation before initial use.
- Asbestos material presence: Due to the construction era, buyers should remain vigilant for older asbestos-containing materials in outbuildings or textured ceilings.
- External paint maintenance: The extensive exterior walls and woodwork will require ongoing periodic painting to prevent weather damage and preserve appearance.
- Garage roof integrity: The large detached garage should be checked for dampness, roof leaks, or timber decay that could compromise stored items.
- Oil tank security: The external oil storage tank must be inspected for structural stability, environmental containment, and leak prevention compliance.
- Ventilation adequacy: Older bungalows can suffer from reduced indoor ventilation, so check for signs of trapped condensation in bathrooms and utility areas.
- Water pressure test: Buyers should verify mains water pressure levels across all bathrooms to ensure adequate flow during peak household usage times.
- Radon gas mitigation: Given the regional location, purchasers should inquire about local radon levels and whether preventative testing or barriers are installed.
- Future retrofit costs: Achieving a higher BER rating will require significant capital investment in heat pumps, solar panels, or extensive fabric insulation upgrades.
Price positioning
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- The asking price appears somewhat overvalued because it exceeds local benchmark transactions for comparable older rural dwellings, positioning the property at a noticeable premium above regional averages despite requiring energy upgrades.
- Undervaluation signals are virtually absent as the quotation sits firmly at the higher end of the local market spectrum, though generous site dimensions and substantial square footage offer some tangible justification for a steeper baseline.
- Potential factors that could undermine this ambitious price include the sub-optimal D energy rating which demands immediate capital expenditure, whereas modernised internal finishes and an extensive secluded garden help support buyer interest.
- Relevant market dynamics indicate that rural properties with large detached garages command steady demand, yet buyers will likely scrutinise the overall value proposition against alternative housing options within the wider county sector.
Build Analysis
What we know from similar construction types
- The property is a detached bungalow built in 1984 with a floor area of approximately 177 square meters, featuring traditional solid block cavity wall construction.
- Services include main water and a septic tank drainage system; the buyer should verify the registration, condition, and compliance of the septic tank with current environmental standards.
- The home features oil-fired central heating and double-glazed windows, which are typical of its construction era and may warrant an upgrade for improved energy efficiency.
- A large detached double garage is included on the 0.84-acre site, providing substantial storage, though its structural condition and any electrical installations should be inspected.
Retrofit Cost*
Possible renovating / insulating expenditure
- The property has a D BER rating, indicating that a deep retrofit would be beneficial to improve energy performance.
- A comprehensive deep retrofit for a 177 square meter detached bungalow of this age typically ranges from €40,000 to €65,000.
- Costs would cover attic and wall insulation upgrades, window and exterior door replacements, modernizing the heating system to a heat pump or high-efficiency boiler, and addressing ventilation to meet modern standards.
Heating cost*
Estimated expense to heat this property every year
- Estimated annual heating cost is approximately €2,400 to €3,000.
- This estimate reflects the 177 square metre floor area and the D BER rating, indicating higher energy consumption compared to more modern, energy-efficient homes.
Pollution Safe
9/10Environmental situation to investigate
- The property is situated in a tranquil rural village setting on the edge of Shinrone, well away from heavy industrial zones, major waste facilities, or known large-scale polluting infrastructure.
- Any potential local environmental concerns, such as the private septic tank drainage system, should be inspected and verified by a qualified professional as part of standard pre-purchase due diligence.
Flood Safe
8/10Water overflow reports to follow up
- The property sits on the edge of Shinrone Village in County Offaly on a generous 0.84-acre site with lawns surrounding the structure, providing good spatial separation from immediate surroundings.
- Official mapping shows no recorded flood zones directly affecting this specific location, indicating a generally favorable geographical setting away from major river corridors.
- While local drainage or surface water pooling during extreme weather events is always a possibility in rural settings, the elevated nature of the plot helps mitigate significant flood exposure.
Recent Local Sales
Verified residential transactions published in the previous five years
Sales on the same street or estate
PRIMROSE GLADE, BIRR RD, SHINRONE
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €299,000.00
Recent sales in the wider Shinrone area
CASTLETOWN, FORTAL, BIRR
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €350,000.00
CLONBRONE, FORTAL, BIRR
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €162,000.00
7 LISMOONEY COURT, KINNITY, BIRR
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €211,453.70
3 RIVERSIDE HOUSE, BIRR, COUNTY OFFALY
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €200,000.00
14 BALLINCUR, KINNITY, BIRR
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €205,000.00
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: €3,550 — 1% of €355,000.
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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 generally range from €1,500 to €2,500 plus outlay and VAT.
- Land registration fees typically range from €400 to €800 depending on the registration type.
- Property valuation fees generally range from €150 to €300.
- Structural surveyor fees for a property of this size typically range from €500 to €900.
- Annual home insurance is estimated to range from €400 to €800 depending on coverage levels.
Forum Talk
What people are saying about this area
- Locals in Shinrone frequently highlight the strong community spirit and the convenience of having amenities like the local primary school, community centre, and supermarket within walking distance.
- Residents often discuss the balanced location of the village, noting its appeal as a quiet rural setting that remains within an easy 7 to 8 km drive of both Roscrea and Birr.
- Community discussions often touch upon the excellent accessibility to major regional road networks connecting to Dublin, Limerick, Cork, Tullamore, and Athlone.
- Property buyers in rural County Offaly frequently share advice on maintaining and upgrading older bungalows, particularly regarding energy efficiency improvements to enhance BER ratings.
LifeFit Assessment
How well this property may suit your lifestyle
Family
7 areas- Young Children8/10
The property features four bedrooms and generous private gardens on a 0.84-acre site, offering plenty of safe outdoor play space for young children.
- Teenagers7/10
With two reception rooms (living room and sitting room) and four bedrooms, teenagers will appreciate having individual space and room to relax.
- Multi-generational Living6/10
A spacious single-level bungalow layout makes moving around easier across generations, though common areas would need to be shared.
- Single Buyers5/10
At 177 square metres, this large detached bungalow may require significant upkeep and maintenance for a single occupant.
- Couples8/10
Provides extensive indoor space and large grounds, ideal for couples looking for room to grow or host family and guests.
- Empty Nesters8/10
Single-level bungalow living avoids stairs, making it well-suited for empty nesters planning for the future, though the large garden requires upkeep.
- Retirees8/10
The absence of stairs in this single-storey home and its peaceful edge-of-village setting make it an attractive choice for retirees.
Work
3 areas- Remote Working7/10
The spacious layout provides ample rooms that could easily be converted into home offices, though buyers should verify local broadband speeds.
- Hybrid Commuting6/10
Positioned as an ideal vantage point to access primary roads towards Dublin, Limerick, Cork, Tullamore, and Athlone for hybrid workers.
- Retired8/10
Single-level accommodation and a tranquil village setting provide a comfortable environment for retirees.
Practical
8 areas- Ageing in Place9/10
A detached single-storey bungalow layout eliminates stairs entirely, making it exceptionally well-suited for ageing in place.
- Low Maintenance5/10
While the interior is neatly painted, maintaining a 0.84-acre site and a 177 square metre older structure requires regular upkeep.
- Secure Gated Entry6/10
Described as being in a very secure setting with a tarmacadamed driveway, though buyers should verify existing security gate installations.
- Minimalist Design4/10
Built in 1984 with traditional room proportions and features like three front arches, leaning more toward traditional than minimalist.
- Flexible Floor Plans7/10
Features multiple reception rooms, four bedrooms, and a large utility/boiler area offering good flexibility for adaptation.
- Heritage Home4/10
Built in 1984, it represents a mid-1980s build style rather than a historical heritage property.
- Ecological Setup4/10
Has an oil-fired central heating system and a D BER rating, meaning energy efficiency improvements should be investigated.
- Outdoor areas9/10
Benefits from a large 0.84-acre plot with lawns all round, a large double garage, and gardens that are not overlooked.
Interests
9 areas- Gardening9/10
Features a large 0.84-acre site with extensive lawns all around and a large garage, perfect for gardening enthusiasts.
- Walking7/10
The location on the edge of Shinrone Village allows for pleasant local walks and easy access to community amenities on foot.
- Gym4/10
There is no dedicated fitness facility on-site, and gym access would require traveling into nearby towns.
- Cycling6/10
The surrounding local roads offer routes for cycling, though rural road conditions and traffic should be taken into account.
- Golf5/10
Golf courses would require a drive to nearby regional towns as there is no course directly in the village.
- Fishing5/10
Proximity to rivers and lakes in the wider Offaly region offers potential fishing opportunities, though local transport is required.
- Horse Riding6/10
The rural setting and generous land plot make it a possible location for equestrian enthusiasts to investigate nearby stables.
- Water Sports2/10
Inland location means water sports facilities are limited, requiring travel to major lakes or rivers.
- Entertaining8/10
Generous living spaces, a large kitchen with dining area, and expansive private gardens make this home well-suited for hosting guests.
Lifestyle
5 areas- Quiet Living8/10
Located on the edge of Shinrone Village with private gardens that are not overlooked, offering a peaceful and private environment.
- Rural Living7/10
Set on a 0.84-acre site surrounded by expansive lawns while still adjoining a local village context.
- Village Living9/10
Directly adjoins the village of Shinrone with the local primary school, community centre, and supermarket within walking distance.
- Coastal Living1/10
The property is located inland in County Offaly, far away from any coastal areas.
- Urban Living3/10
Shinrone is a small rural village rather than an urban center, with larger towns like Roscrea and Birr a 7 to 8 km drive away.
Social
6 areas- Community Involvement8/10
Being right on the edge of Shinrone Village gives easy access to the local community centre, primary school, and local events.
- Café Culture4/10
While there is a local supermarket, extensive cafe culture is more likely to be found in nearby Birr or Roscrea.
- Nightlife3/10
Shinrone is a quiet village with limited nightlife options, which are primarily centered around larger nearby towns.
- Health/Wellness groups5/10
The local community centre may host local activities, but specialised wellness groups will likely require travel to larger hubs.
- Networking Opportunities3/10
Rural village setting offers limited formal professional networking opportunities locally.
- Tech-Hub Connectivity3/10
Located in a rural village environment rather than a metropolitan tech hub.
Listing information
- Agent
- Sherry FitzGerald Fogarty
- Phone
- 050 521 192
- Current status
- active
- Published on HouseDelve
- 2 September 2026
- Correction
- Report an issue
HD-99BC42HouseDelve · 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.