The Cottage, Martinstown, Collinstown, WestmeathN91YT73
€245,000
2 Bed~1 Bath~733 m²~BER D
What you'll like:
- Heritage character: This delightful two up two down heritage stone cottage built circa 1915 offers immense character and charm, appealing directly to buyers seeking authentic rural aesthetics.
- Recent extension: The property features a rear extension constructed around 2019, providing enhanced living space while successfully blending modern comfort with traditional style.
- Elevated site: Situated on an approximately 0.4 acre elevated site with mature trees, the home enjoys a peaceful, tranquil setting that maximizes privacy and natural beauty.
- Modern bathroom: A contemporary bathroom is already installed, featuring a modern three piece suite including a freestanding bath and Triton shower unit for immediate convenience.
- Home office potential: The dedicated back hall with tiled flooring, PVC door, and window offers an ideal layout for a functional and quiet home office space.
- Solid fuel stove: The kitchen is equipped with a cozy solid fuel stove, providing an alternative heating source and adding a traditional focal point to daily living.
- Upgraded insulation: The roof has been refelted and fitted with 100ml insulation approximately five years ago, helping to improve overall thermal retention and energy efficiency.
- Radiator thermostats: Individual thermostats are installed on all radiators, allowing for precise temperature control across rooms to help optimize household energy consumption.
- Flue lined chimney: The chimney features a proper flue lining, ensuring safer operation for solid fuel burning and reducing potential maintenance concerns for future occupants.
- Double glazing: PVC windows and doors are installed throughout the home, enhancing exterior security and assisting with basic thermal insulation against winter weather.
- Included appliances: The sale includes major kitchen appliances such as an electric hot point cooker, dishwasher, fridge, and microwave oven, reducing initial move in costs.
- Outdoor patio area: A lovely sunny patio area is located to the rear, creating a perfect spot for outdoor dining and relaxing during warmer summer months.
- Ample storage shed: A small block built storage shed sits at the rear of the property, providing secure exterior space for gardening tools and outdoor equipment.
- Scenic local amenities: Located within 1.5km of Fore village, residents have easy access to local coffee shops, country pubs, a distillery, and historical abbey ruins.
- Proximity to lake: The neighboring village of Collinstown features Lough Lene, an inland Blue Flag lake ideal for fishing, swimming, and various water sports enthusiasts.
- Comprehensive nearby services: Castlepollard is only 8km away, offering primary and post-primary schools, a selection of local shops, pubs, a medical center, and a Tesco.
- Stable asking price: Recorded asking price history shows the property has remained steady at €245,000 without abrupt upward revisions, indicating a consistent seller pricing strategy.
- Accessible recreation: The surrounding region offers fantastic forestry walks, local GAA clubs for hurling and camogie, and multiple nearby lakes and rivers for outdoor pursuits.
- Mains water connection: The property benefits from a direct connection to mains water, avoiding the common reliability and maintenance issues associated with private well systems.
- Clear boundaries: The generous 0.4 acre plot includes well established mature trees and shrubberies, defining a private garden footprint without feeling cramped or overlooked.
But keep in mind:
- Energy rating: The dwelling holds a D2 BER rating with an EPI of 293.73 kWh/m2/yr, which indicates higher than average energy consumption and likely requires further thermal upgrades.
- Septic tank system: The property relies on a septic tank rather than municipal mains drainage, requiring the buyer to verify its current capacity, registration, and structural compliance.
- Compact floor area: Spanning approximately 68.1 square meters, the two bedroom layout is relatively compact and may feel restrictive for growing families or those requiring extensive storage.
- Historic construction: Built circa 1915, this heritage stone cottage likely requires ongoing specialist maintenance and monitoring for traditional building issues like rising damp or lime mortar degradation.
- Closed fireplace: The sitting room features a solid fuel fireplace with a wooden mantelpiece that is currently closed off, meaning a buyer must inspect the flue before use.
- Staircase configuration: The stairs leading from the kitchen directly to the upper bedrooms may present layout inefficiencies, limited privacy, or potential noise transfer between levels.
- Hot press location: Bedroom one houses the hot press, which could introduce minor ambient heat or noise from the water heating system into the sleeping quarters.
- Access road context: Nestled on a quiet country road, prospective buyers should investigate local council winter maintenance schedules and road upkeep standards for rural access.
- Extension compliance: Buyers must ensure that all necessary planning permissions and building regulations compliance certificates are fully documented for the 2019 rear extension.
- Oil heating age: The oil fired central heating system was reportedly fitted 10 years ago, suggesting the boiler may soon approach the end of its typical operational lifespan.
- Sloped or uneven site: Although elevated and scenic, a 0.4 acre sloping site may present ongoing landscaping challenges, drainage considerations, or limited flat lawn areas for play.
- Single bathroom: With only one bathroom servicing both double bedrooms, peak morning times could create household bottlenecks for larger family units or visiting guests.
- Limited local transport: The rural setting near Collinstown and Fore generally necessitates reliance on private vehicles, as public transport links are likely sparse or non-existent.
- Low ceiling potential: Traditional heritage cottages from 1915 often feature lower ceiling heights, which might feel confining for taller occupants or when furnishing specific spaces.
- Storage limitations: Aside from a small block built rear shed, indoor storage options are modest, meaning buyers might need to invest in additional garden outbuildings.
- Roof condition age: While the roof was refelted and insulated five years ago, the underlying timber structure of a century-old cottage warrants a thorough professional structural survey.
- Electrical system check: Given the mix of original 1915 fabric and a 2019 extension, a buyer should commission a detailed electrical inspection to verify modern circuit board safety.
- Boundary verification: Buyers should carefully inspect property deeds and maps with their legal representative to confirm that the entire 0.4-acre garden footprint is accurately titled.
- Window efficiency: Despite featuring PVC frames, the deep-set window openings should be checked for proper sealing and potential thermal bridging common in older stone wall structures.
- Market liquidity: Properties in highly rural settings like Martinstown can sometimes experience longer resale timelines, making thorough initial due-diligence essential for long-term value.
Price positioning
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- The asking price of two hundred and forty-five thousand euros appears quite balanced, sitting comfortably within the broader context of recent rural transactions in the surrounding Westmeath area.
- Valuation signals are supported by a modest two-bedroom heritage cottage footprint, an elevated four-tenth acre site, and recent back extensions, though restrained by a D2 energy rating.
- Potential support for this valuation includes picturesque countryside appeal and proximity to local historical amenities, whereas factors that might undermine it involve rural isolation and heating efficiency upgrades.
- Additional relevance comes from stable pricing history with no recorded reductions, indicating steady vendor expectations without immediate panic selling or urgent market clearance pressures.
Build Analysis
What we know from similar construction types
- The property is a heritage stone cottage built around 1915, featuring an extension added circa 2019 to the rear.
- Upgrades include roof insulation and reflective material installed about 5 years ago, alongside PVC windows and doors.
- Heating is provided by oil-fired central heating with radiator thermostats, a solid fuel stove in the kitchen, and a flue-lined chimney, though the buyer should verify the condition and compliance of the solid fuel fireplace in the sitting room which is currently closed off.
- Services include a private septic tank and mains water, meaning the buyer should investigate the capacity, condition, and regulatory compliance of the septic tank system.
- Given the age of the original structure, a structural survey is recommended to assess the condition of the heritage stonework, damp levels, and the structural interface between the 1915 build and the 2019 extension.
Retrofit Cost*
Possible renovating / insulating expenditure
- The property has a D2 BER rating, indicating that energy efficiency improvements are needed to reach modern standards.
- A deep retrofit for a cottage of approximately 68 square meters to bring it to a B2 BER rating or higher would typically cost between 25,000 and 45,000 euros, depending on the extent of external wall insulation suitable for a heritage stone structure, upgraded heating controls, and potential renewable energy installations such as a heat pump or solar panels.
Heating cost*
Estimated expense to heat this property every year
- Estimated annual heating cost: 1,800 to 2,400 euro per year
- Explanation: Given the D2 BER rating and an approximate floor area of 73.3 square meters utilizing oil-fired central heating and a solid fuel stove, energy efficiency is moderate and heating costs will reflect typical rural detached home consumption.
Pollution Safe
9/10Environmental situation to investigate
- The property is located in a predominantly rural agricultural setting, appearantly well away from major heavy industrial zones, modern incinerators, or large commercial landfills.
- Any potential local risks concerning historical land use or private septic tank arrangements should be independently verified by the buyer's surveyor.
Flood Safe
8/10Water overflow reports to follow up
- The property is situated on an elevated site, which naturally helps reduce its exposure to surface water accumulation during heavy rainfall.
- Official mapping indicates that the home is located outside of identified flood-risk zones in this part of County Westmeath.
- While the surrounding region includes lakes and historical water features, the local topography provides a healthy buffer against significant river or lake flooding.
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 Collinstown area
KILPATRICK, COLLINSTOWN, CO WESTMEATH
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €306,000.00
COMMERSTOWN, COLLINSTOWN, WESTMEATH
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €222,000.00
8 CLOG NA LEINN, COLLINSTOWN, CO WESTMEATH
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €580,000.00
BROWNSTOWN, COLLINSTOWN, CO WESTMEATH
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €397,000.00
COOLEIGHTER, DRUMCREE, COLLINSTOWN
- 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: €2,450 — 1% of €245,000.
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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: 1,500 to 2,500 euro plus outlay and VAT
- Land registration fees: 400 to 800 euro depending on property value and registration type
- Property valuation fees: 150 to 250 euro for a mortgage or independent valuation
- Surveyor fees: 500 to 1,000 euro depending on the level of detail required for a structural survey
- Annual home insurance: 350 to 600 euro per year depending on the policy and coverage level
Forum Talk
What people are saying about this area
- Locals in the Collinstown and Fore areas frequently highlight the peaceful, rural atmosphere and community spirit on community forums and social media groups.
- Proximity to Lough Lene is a common topic of discussion among residents, particularly regarding swimming, fishing, and local water sports events.
- The historical significance of Fore Abbey and its surrounding looped walks frequently attract positive commentary from visitors and heritage enthusiasts online.
- Community discussions often emphasize the convenience of nearby amenities in Castlepollard while maintaining a quiet country lifestyle.
LifeFit Assessment
How well this property may suit your lifestyle
Family
7 areas- Young Children5/10
The property features an enclosed 0.4-acre garden and is close to a local primary school in Fore, making it somewhat suitable for young families. However, with only two bedrooms and a rural setting, space and proximity to extensive childcare facilities are limited.
- Teenagers3/10
A two-bedroom heritage cottage with a floor area of 733 sq ft offers limited personal space for teenagers. Its isolated rural location also means older children would likely rely heavily on parents for transport to social and educational activities.
- Multi-generational Living2/10
With only two bedrooms and a compact layout spanning approximately 733 sq ft, the cottage lacks the spatial separation and capacity required for multi-generational living.
- Single Buyers8/10
Priced at €245,000, this two-bedroom cottage offers an affordable entry point for single buyers seeking a characterful home with a manageable footprint and rural charm.
- Couples8/10
The property provides an ideal romantic retreat or first-time home for a couple, featuring a cozy layout, characterful stone heritage details, and a peaceful country setting.
- Empty Nesters7/10
Empty nesters looking to downsize to a manageable single-story or two-up two-down cottage with a lovely garden will find the size appealing, though rural maintenance should be considered.
- Retirees6/10
While the single-acre grounds and countryside tranquility suit retirement, the stairs leading to the two bedrooms and the rural isolation from major medical centers present some challenges for long-term aging in place.
Work
3 areas- Remote Working8/10
The designated back hall measures 2.45m x 2.056m and is explicitly well-suited for use as a home office, making remote work highly viable.
- Hybrid Commuting4/10
With Kells 27km away and longer commutes required for major employment hubs like Dublin, hybrid commuting is feasible but involves notable travel time.
- Retired7/10
The peaceful environment, manageable property size, and local village charm make it a viable option for retirees seeking a slower pace of life.
Practical
8 areas- Ageing in Place5/10
The presence of stairs leading to the bedrooms and a rural location mean modifications or future healthcare access should be considered if aging in place.
- Low Maintenance6/10
The cottage has benefited from recent upgrades including a 2019 rear extension, roof insulation, and PVC windows, though heritage stone structures generally require attentive upkeep.
- Secure Gated Entry3/10
The property features an open rural driveway and mature garden boundaries rather than a secure gated entry system.
- Minimalist Design4/10
Oozing with character and charm, the property is a traditional two-up two-down heritage stone cottage rather than a minimalist modern build.
- Flexible Floor Plans5/10
The layout includes a functional kitchen, sitting room, and a back hall adaptable as a home office, though the 733 sq ft footprint offers limited overall flexibility.
- Heritage Home10/10
Built circa 1915, this heritage stone cottage retains wonderful period character, deep-set windows, and historical charm.
- Ecological Setup5/10
Features a solid fuel stove and recent insulation upgrades, though buyers should verify the efficiency of the septic tank and oil-fired central heating system.
- Outdoor areas8/10
Set on an elevated 0.4-acre site with mature trees, shrubberies, a sunny rear patio area, and a block-built storage shed, providing ample outdoor utility.
Interests
9 areas- Gardening8/10
The roughly 0.4-acre elevated site featuring mature trees, shrubberies, and a sunny patio area provides a great canvas for keen gardeners.
- Walking9/10
Positioned near the historical village of Fore with its looped walkway through the Abbey, and close to forestry walks, it is an excellent location for walking enthusiasts.
- Gym2/10
There are no commercial gym facilities within walking distance, requiring travel to nearby towns like Castlepollard or Kells for fitness centers.
- Cycling7/10
The surrounding quiet country roads offer pleasant cycling routes, though the rural road conditions and lack of dedicated cycle lanes should be noted.
- Golf4/10
While rural, avid golfers would need to travel to nearby towns to access standard golf course facilities.
- Fishing9/10
The proximity to Collinstown and Lough Lene—an inland Blue Flag lake ideal for fishing—makes this a prime spot for angling enthusiasts.
- Horse Riding6/10
The rural Westmeath setting is conducive to equestrian interests, though buyers should verify local livery and riding stable availability.
- Water Sports8/10
Close proximity to Lough Lene in Collinstown provides excellent opportunities for swimming and various water sports.
- Entertaining5/10
The cottage features a cozy interior and a sunny rear patio area suitable for small gatherings, but the overall 733 sq ft footprint limits large-scale indoor entertaining.
Lifestyle
5 areas- Quiet Living10/10
Situated on a quiet country road within a peaceful and tranquil setting near the historic village of Fore, this property offers exceptional peace and quiet.
- Rural Living10/10
The property is quintessentially rural, nestled on an elevated 0.4-acre site surrounded by mature trees and countryside, ideal for those seeking a country lifestyle.
- Village Living7/10
Located within 1.5km of the historical village of Fore and close to Collinstown, residents can easily enjoy local community amenities, coffee shops, and country pubs.
- Coastal Living1/10
The property is located inland in County Westmeath, far from any coastal areas.
- Urban Living1/10
This is a rural heritage cottage far removed from city centers or urban environments.
Social
6 areas- Community Involvement7/10
Proximity to Fore village and Collinstown fosters a tight-knit community atmosphere with local primary schools, cafes, and community hubs.
- Café Culture6/10
Local amenities include coffee shops in Fore, such as the Barrel & Bean distillery and cafe, offering a charming rural cafe experience.
- Nightlife2/10
Nightlife is limited to traditional local country pubs, with more extensive nightlife requiring travel to larger towns.
- Health/Wellness groups4/10
Local wellness options are sparse in the immediate rural vicinity, though nearby Castlepollard offers medical centers and community groups.
- Networking Opportunities2/10
As a rural heritage cottage, professional networking opportunities locally are minimal, requiring connections in larger urban or tech hubs.
- Tech-Hub Connectivity3/10
While a home office space is provided, buyers should investigate the local broadband infrastructure to ensure high-speed connectivity for tech-focused roles.
Listing information
- Agent
- Sherry FitzGerald Davitt & Davitt Mullingar
- Phone
- 044 934 0000 / 044 966 1000
- Current status
- active
- Published on HouseDelve
- 3 November 2026
- Correction
- Report an issue
HD-4BBD98HouseDelve · 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.