The Cottage, Knockanree, Avoca, Co. WicklowY14E042
€195,000
2 Bed~1 Bath~66 m²~BER G
What you'll like:
- Scenic countryside setting: The property is located in a picturesque rural area close to Avoca village, offering buyers a peaceful environment with natural beauty and local charm.
- Generous site size: Set on a mature site extending to just over half an acre, providing ample outdoor space for landscaping, gardening, and potential future expansion.
- Detached property layout: Stands as a detached two-bedroom home, ensuring superior privacy and independence compared to semi-detached or terraced options in the same price bracket.
- Traditional cottage character: Retains charming original features including exposed timber ceiling details, wooden floorboards, and traditional fireplaces that provide an authentic rustic aesthetic.
- Dual reception rooms: Features both a living room and a dining room on the ground floor, offering flexible living arrangements and options for interior reconfiguration.
- Elevated bedroom outlooks: The first-floor bedrooms enjoy pleasant elevated views overlooking the surrounding greenery and scenic countryside landscape.
- Compact kitchen space: Positioned conveniently off the main living room, offering a dedicated footprint for a future galley-style kitchen installation.
- Ground floor bathroom: Includes a functional ground floor bathroom fitted with a bath, WC, and wash hand basin, benefiting from dual-aspect windows for natural light.
- Mature grounds and trees: The exterior features established trees and informal garden areas, giving buyers an established green canvas rather than starting on bare earth.
- Renovation project potential: Represents an ideal purchase for builders or DIY enthusiasts looking to completely restore and shape a property to their personal taste.
- Proximity to Avoca village: Situated close to the historic Avoca village, ensuring easy access to local community amenities, shops, and traditional social spots.
- Accessible regional towns: Well placed within reach of Arklow and Wicklow Town, providing access to larger retail outlets, schools, and comprehensive services.
- Transport links nearby: Conveniently positioned within reach of the M11 corridor, facilitating practical commuting routes towards Dublin and the wider southeast region.
- Affordable entry price: Offered at an accessible asking price of €195,000, making it an attractive proposition for buyers with a dedicated refurbishment budget.
- Scope for landscaping: The sloping site offers exciting possibilities for terraced garden design and creative outdoor living spaces to maximize the rural views.
- Privacy and seclusion: Positioned away from high-density housing developments, ensuring a quiet lifestyle with minimal passing traffic and excellent personal privacy.
- Historical architectural charm: The traditional cottage footprint allows preservation-minded buyers to retain local vernacular building styles while upgrading modern conveniences.
- Good room dimensions: The main living room and double bedrooms offer reasonably proportioned spaces for comfortable furniture placement post-restoration.
- Natural light in wet areas: The bathroom benefits from dual-aspect windows, ensuring good ventilation and natural illumination in a crucial functional zone.
- Investment upside: Successfully executing a comprehensive renovation could significantly increase the capital value of the property in a desirable countryside location.
But keep in mind:
- Extremely poor BER rating: The property holds a G energy rating, indicating severe thermal inefficiency that will require major insulation and heating upgrades.
- Complete lack of services: The cottage is currently without services, meaning a buyer must budget heavily to install basic utilities from scratch.
- Private well required: Purchasers will need to install a private well subject to necessary consents, adding complexity and ongoing testing responsibilities for clean water.
- Septic tank installation needed: A new septic tank system must be installed on site, requiring percolation tests and local authority approval before habitation.
- Cash purchasers only: Due to the current lack of services and poor condition, standard mortgage financing will likely be unavailable, restricting buyers to cash funds.
- Substantial refurbishment required: The building is in need of comprehensive refurbishment throughout, demanding significant capital expenditure beyond the initial purchase price.
- Sloping site challenges: The half-acre grounds are sloping, which may complicate heavy machinery access, drainage solutions, and exterior landscaping works.
- Compact kitchen footprint: The existing kitchen area is very small at just 1.60m x 2.13m, likely necessitating a reconfiguration or extension for modern living standards.
- First floor access constraints: Accommodation is split-level with bedrooms on the first floor accessed via a narrow landing, which may limit accessibility for some occupants.
- Low ceiling joists risk: Traditional timber ceiling joists observed in reception rooms may impact vertical clearance and require careful treatment for modern insulation.
- Uncertain structural integrity: Given the age of the cottage, buyers should commission a thorough structural survey to check for damp, timber rot, and foundation stability.
- Roof and chimney inspection: The presence of traditional chimneys and older roof structures requires specialist investigation to ensure weatherproofing and structural soundness.
- Planning permission hurdles: Installing a new wastewater treatment system and making structural alterations will require navigating local planning and environmental regulations.
- Lack of central heating: The property lacks an operational central heating system, requiring the installation of a complete plumbing and boiler infrastructure.
- Window and door upgrades: Existing windows and exterior doors likely require full replacement to improve security and address the current G energy rating.
- Electrical rewiring needed: An older cottage of this type will almost certainly require a complete electrical rewiring to meet modern safety standards.
- Hidden moisture issues: Traditional stone or brick cottages often suffer from rising damp and inadequate ventilation, which should be thoroughly investigated prior to purchase.
- Boundary verification required: Buyers must verify exact site boundaries and legal rights of way across the sloping half-acre grounds with their legal representatives.
- Unconnected utility infrastructure: Bringing electricity and telecommunication lines to the dwelling may incur substantial connection fees from utility providers.
- Project management overhead: Managing a rural renovation project without existing services requires significant time, local contractor coordination, and contingency budgeting.
Price positioning
?
- The asking price appears modestly positioned given the significant capital expenditure required to install essential services like a well and septic tank while addressing a very poor energy efficiency rating.
- Signals pointing towards a potentially lower valuation include the total absence of current services, the extensive nature of the required structural refurbishment, and cash-only buyer restrictions that limit market liquidity.
- Support for this pricing level could stem from the substantial half-acre site footprint, attractive countryside setting, and strong historical precedent for rural properties fetching higher figures following full modernization.
- Relevant factors include the ongoing demand for rural lifestyle projects in the region, which often attract competitive interest from buyers willing to undertake long-term phased renovations.
Build Analysis
What we know from similar construction types
- The property is a traditional detached two-bedroom cottage requiring comprehensive refurbishment.
- The listing notes that the property is currently without services, meaning a buyer must investigate the installation of a new well and septic tank subject to planning and environmental consents.
- Given the need for extensive capital investment and lack of active services, the property is stated to be suitable for cash purchasers only.
- Buyers should verify the structural integrity of the timber ceilings, floors, and roof, as well as investigate dampness and the condition of the traditional fireplaces.
Retrofit Cost*
Possible renovating / insulating expenditure
- The property holds a G BER rating, indicating poor energy efficiency and requiring a complete deep retrofit.
- Estimated costs for a comprehensive deep retrofit on a 66 square metre cottage of this age typically range from €50,000 to €80,000 or more, depending on the extent of works required.
- Key interventions would include internal or external wall insulation, roof insulation, window and door replacements, and the installation of a modern heating system along with renewable energy technologies to achieve a modern energy standard.
Heating cost*
Estimated expense to heat this property every year
- Estimated annual heating cost: over 2,500 euro
- Explanation: The property currently has a G energy rating and is in need of extensive refurbishment and the installation of services, which will result in very high energy usage until significant insulation and heating upgrades are completed.
Pollution Safe
9/10Environmental situation to investigate
- The property is situated in a quiet rural setting in Knockanree, Avoca, appearing well removed from major industrial facilities, incinerators, or active large-scale landfills.
- Any historical or localized environmental concerns, such as private well water quality or legacy agricultural practices, should be verified by the purchaser.
Flood Safe
8/10Water overflow reports to follow up
- The cottage occupies an elevated site extending to over half an acre in a scenic countryside location, suggesting a lower natural susceptibility to surface water flooding.
- Prospective buyers should consult local flood maps and verify site drainage characteristics, particularly given the sloping nature of the grounds.
Recent Local Sales
Verified residential transactions published in the previous five years
Sales on the same street or estate
YELLOW COTTAGE, KNOCKANREE, AVOCA
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €330,000.00
Recent sales in the wider Avoca area
5 WOODVIEW PARK, AVOCA, CO WICKLOW
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €300,000.00
THE BUNGALOW, KILMAGIG UPPER, AVOCA
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €550,000.00
4 BROOK MEADOWS, AVOCA, WICKLOW
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €463,000.00
UMMERA, 13 AVOCA WOOD, AVOCA
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €625,000.00
CASTLEMACADAM COTTAGE, CASTLEMACADAM, AVOCA
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €310,000.00
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: approximately 1 percent of the purchase price (around 1,950 euro) for properties under 1 million euro
- Solicitor legal fees: roughly 1,500 euro to 3,000 euro plus outlay and VAT
- Land registration fees: roughly 175 euro to 400 euro depending on the registration type
- Property valuation fees: about 150 euro to 250 euro
- Surveyor fees: approximately 500 euro to 1,000 euro depending on the depth of the survey required
- Annual home insurance: estimated between 400 euro and 800 euro depending on the level of cover and rebuilding costs
Forum Talk
What people are saying about this area
- Locals in the Avoca area frequently discuss the scenic appeal and peaceful rural lifestyle of the surrounding countryside.
- Residents often share updates on community events and local amenities available in Avoca village and nearby Arklow.
- Discussions in regional forums sometimes highlight the importance of maintaining rural properties and upgrading older septic tank systems.
- Community groups note the ongoing demand for countryside renovation projects and traditional cottage restorations in County Wicklow.
LifeFit Assessment
How well this property may suit your lifestyle
Family
7 areas- Young Children3/10
The property requires substantial refurbishment and lacks current services, which makes it unsuitable for young children until significant work is completed.
- Teenagers4/10
While the half-acre site offers plenty of outdoor space, the compact interior and lack of modern amenities present challenges for teenagers.
- Multi-generational Living2/10
With a floor area of only 66 square metres and two bedrooms, there is insufficient space for multi-generational living without major extension.
- Single Buyers6/10
A single buyer looking for a countryside restoration project could find this traditional cottage appealing, provided they have the budget and cash funds for renovations.
- Couples6/10
Suited for couples seeking a rural project to shape a home to their own requirements, though the scale of the works should be carefully considered.
- Empty Nesters5/10
The quiet rural setting is attractive for empty nesters, but the need for extensive modernisation and installation of services requires careful thought.
- Retirees4/10
Ageing in place would be difficult given the current poor BER rating, lack of services, and the need for comprehensive refurbishment.
Work
3 areas- Remote Working6/10
The tranquil setting is ideal for remote working, but buyers should verify broadband connectivity and service availability given the property's current unserviced state.
- Hybrid Commuting5/10
While within reach of the M11 for access, the rural location means commuting times to major employment hubs will be notable.
- Retired5/10
Appealing for a peaceful retirement project, but the heavy maintenance and renovation required may not suit everyone.
Practical
8 areas- Ageing in Place2/10
The property requires extensive refurbishment, installation of services, and a G-rated BER, making it impractical for ageing in place without major investment.
- Low Maintenance1/10
Requiring complete refurbishment, well and septic tank installation, and grounds clearance, this property is the opposite of low maintenance.
- Secure Gated Entry3/10
The property currently features an open rural entrance with no secure gated setup.
- Minimalist Design4/10
It features a traditional cottage layout with fireplaces and timber ceilings rather than a contemporary minimalist aesthetic.
- Flexible Floor Plans5/10
While the traditional layout offers some scope for reconfiguration during the renovation process, the footprint is relatively small at 66 square metres.
- Heritage Home8/10
Retains genuine traditional cottage character, including fireplaces, timber ceiling details, and historic charm.
- Ecological Setup3/10
The current G BER rating and lack of connected services mean significant upgrades are needed to achieve an eco-friendly standard.
- Outdoor areas9/10
Extending to just over half an acre, the mature, sloping site with established trees offers fantastic potential for landscaping and outdoor enjoyment.
Interests
9 areas- Gardening9/10
The sloping, mature site extending to over half an acre features established trees and informal areas offering immense potential for landscaping.
- Walking8/10
The scenic countryside setting around Avoca provides excellent opportunities for rural walking and exploring.
- Gym2/10
Gym facilities are not nearby, requiring travel into larger towns for fitness centers.
- Cycling7/10
The surrounding country roads are picturesque for cycling enthusiasts, though care is needed on rural lanes.
- Golf5/10
While local courses exist in the wider County Wicklow area, none are immediately adjacent.
- Fishing7/10
The proximity to the Avoca area offers good potential for local angling and river access.
- Horse Riding7/10
The rural setting and land availability could appeal to those with equestrian interests, subject to setting up suitable facilities.
- Water Sports4/10
Water sports would require travelling toward the coast or larger river/lake destinations.
- Entertaining5/10
The outdoor grounds offer great summer entertaining potential once cleared, but indoor living spaces are currently quite compact.
Lifestyle
5 areas- Quiet Living9/10
Set in a scenic countryside location close to Avoca village, the property offers a peaceful and private rural environment.
- Rural Living10/10
Positioned on a mature site extending to just over half an acre surrounded by greenery, delivering an authentic rural experience.
- Village Living7/10
The property is located close to Avoca village, providing good proximity to local amenities while maintaining a countryside feel.
- Coastal Living3/10
The location is inland in County Wicklow, though towns like Arklow are within reach for coastal access.
- Urban Living2/10
This is strictly a rural property far removed from urban centers, though within reach of the M11.
Social
6 areas- Community Involvement7/10
Proximity to Avoca village allows for integration into a tight-knit local community.
- Café Culture4/10
Limited café options immediately nearby, requiring trips into Avoca or larger nearby towns.
- Nightlife2/10
Nightlife options are minimal in this rural countryside setting.
- Health/Wellness groups5/10
Pilates & stretching or similar wellness groups would likely be found in nearby community centers or larger towns.
- Networking Opportunities2/10
Not suited for professional networking due to its isolated rural nature.
- Tech-Hub Connectivity2/10
There are no tech hubs nearby, relying entirely on remote connectivity.
Listing information
- Agent
- DNG Thornton Properties
- Phone
- 0404 25565
- Published on HouseDelve
- 13 September 2026
- Correction
- Report an issue
HD-D0AF78HouseDelve · Republic of Ireland* Estimate — not advice. Actual costs and outcomes can vary materially. Obtain current quotations and professional advice before making financial or property decisions.