
The Willows, Aghoo, Ballinamore, Co. Leitrim
€148,000
2 Bed~2 Bath~93 m²~BER E1
What you'll like:
- Affordable asking price: Listed at €148,000, this detached cottage presents an accessible entry point for first-time buyers, holiday home seekers, or downsizers looking for rural value.
- Generous site area: Occupying approximately 0.48 hectares, the property provides ample outdoor space for gardens, landscaping, or potential recreational use, enhancing overall privacy.
- Traditional charm retained: The interior preserves the character of a classic Irish country home while offering a warm, welcoming, and practical layout for modern inhabitants.
- Close to town amenities: Situated just 2.5 kilometres from Ballinamore, residents can easily access local shops, schools, cafés, restaurants, and essential community services.
- Proximity to waterways: Being near the renowned Shannon-Erne Waterway makes this location exceptionally appealing for boating enthusiasts, anglers, and nature lovers seeking outdoor pursuits.
- Dual bathroom setup: Featuring a ground floor bathroom and an upstairs toilet, the layout provides convenient facilities for occupants and visiting guests alike.
- Cozy living features: The modern kitchen and dining area includes a solid fuel stove, creating a comfortable focal point for colder evenings and reducing heating reliance.
- Outdoor patio connection: The living room opens directly onto a rear patio area, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor living spaces for warm weather entertaining.
- Bright interior spaces: The layout benefits from a welcoming atmosphere with natural light filtering through, enhancing the perception of space within the 93 square metre footprint.
- Peaceful countryside setting: Surrounded by rolling hills and attractive rural views, the location delivers a quiet pace of life away from urban hustle and congestion.
- Strong holiday home potential: The combination of scenic seclusion, recreational proximity, and manageable size makes this an attractive option for short-term rental investment.
- Convenient transport access: The property benefits from straightforward connections to regional road networks, facilitating travel to nearby towns and employment hubs.
- Established local community: Ballinamore provides a vibrant local community with active sports facilities, schools, and social clubs enriching everyday rural living experiences.
- Clear viewing arrangements: Regular open viewings and an active sole selling agent indicate a structured and transparent marketing process for prospective purchasers.
- Manageable floor area: The 93 square metre size offers comfortable two-bedroom accommodation that requires manageable maintenance compared to larger rural properties.
- Dressing area included: The upper floor layout incorporates a dedicated dressing area, adding valuable storage space and functionality to the primary bedroom suite.
- Stable asking price: The tracked asking price history shows no increases or decreases since tracking began, suggesting a firm and consistent vendor pricing strategy.
- Outdoor privacy enhanced: The substantial plot size buffers the dwelling from neighbouring properties, ensuring a secluded retreat atmosphere for full-time residents.
- Recreational fishing hub: The surrounding region is widely celebrated for excellent fishing opportunities, adding leisure value for enthusiasts and potential rental appeal.
- Dedicated agent support: Representation by an established local estate agency ensures professional guidance throughout the purchasing and negotiation journey.
But keep in mind:
- Poor energy efficiency: The property holds an E1 BER rating, indicating significant heat loss that will likely result in high heating bills until substantial upgrades are completed.
- Substantial retrofit costs: Improving the E1 energy rating to a modern standard will require considerable capital expenditure on insulation, windows, and heating system overhauls.
- High heating energy demand: The recorded energy performance figure of 334.2 kWh/m²/year highlights the urgent need for fabric upgrades to ensure comfortable winter living.
- Limited bedroom count: With only two bedrooms, the accommodation may prove restrictive for growing families or buyers requiring multiple home office spaces.
- Upstairs bathroom limitation: The upper floor contains a toilet rather than a full bathroom, requiring residents to travel downstairs for bathing facilities.
- Potential rural maintenance: Older traditional cottages often require ongoing upkeep regarding dampness, roof integrity, and timber preservation that buyers should thoroughly inspect.
- On-site wastewater uncertainty: Buyers must verify the condition and compliance of the private septic tank or sewage treatment system serving the 0.48-hectare site.
- Private water supply check: It is essential to investigate whether the property relies on a private well or public water main and test the water quality.
- Potential insulation deficits: Traditional building methods in older detached homes often mean cavity or roof insulation falls well below modern regulatory standards.
- Rural isolation risks: While peaceful, the 2.5-kilometre distance from town means reliance on a car is absolute for daily errands and commuting.
- Broadband availability check: Buyers should verify high-speed fiber broadband availability locally, as remote working viability depends heavily on robust internet connectivity.
- Solid fuel reliance: The presence of a stove suggests primary heating may depend on solid fuels, which involves ongoing manual effort and fuel storage logistics.
- Boundary fence verification: The exact legal boundaries across the generous 0.48-hectare plot should be confirmed by a qualified surveyor to prevent future neighbour disputes.
- Planning restriction risks: Being in a rural countryside zone may complicate obtaining local planning permission for future extensions or significant structural alterations.
- Access road conditions: Prospective purchasers should assess the local public and private approach roads to ensure they are adequately maintained year-round by the council.
- Surface water drainage: Given the rural Leitrim setting, buyers must check that the large garden effectively manages heavy rainfall without pooling or dampness risks.
- Limited indoor storage: Beyond the dressing area, built-in storage appears minimal, potentially requiring furniture investments to keep living areas uncluttered.
- Single-glazed joinery risk: Older cottages frequently feature older window units that contribute to drafts and acoustic leakage, necessitating future replacement budgeting.
- Heating system evaluation: The efficiency and age of the primary central heating boiler or system should be professionally inspected prior to final contract signing.
- Future resale liquidity: Rural two-bedroom properties with low energy ratings can sometimes experience longer selling timelines compared to modern suburban homes.
Price positioning
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- The asking price of 148000 euros appears moderately below typical expectations for a detached two-bedroom rural home with over ninety square metres of floor space and a generous half-hectare site situated close to town amenities.
- Valuation signals are driven by the relatively low entry cost for a countryside property featuring traditional character, modern kitchen facilities, and close proximity to local schools and recreational waterways in County Leitrim.
- Potential factors supporting this accessible pricing strategy include the E1 building energy rating which may require future capital investment for efficiency upgrades, alongside modest comparative sales figures within the wider rural locality.
- Relevant market dynamics suggest the property could attract significant interest from holiday home buyers or permanent residents seeking a quieter pace of life, potentially leading to competitive viewing engagement during open days.
Build Analysis
What we know from similar construction types
- The property is described as a traditional detached cottage set on a c.0.48 hectare site, which suggests older solid-wall or early cavity-wall construction that typically requires careful inspection regarding damp, insulation, and ventilation.
- A buyer should investigate the condition of the roof, windows, and heating systems, as traditional cottages often require upgrades to meet modern comfort standards.
- Given the rural setting on a generous site, a surveyor should verify the status and compliance of the on-site wastewater treatment system (septic tank) and private water supply if applicable.
- Boundary lines and rights of way should be verified by the legal representative, particularly given the rural plot size.
Retrofit Cost*
Possible renovating / insulating expenditure
- The property has a BER rating of E1, indicating a poor energy performance that would benefit significantly from a deep retrofit to improve warmth and reduce energy bills.
- A comprehensive deep retrofit for a 93 m² detached cottage—including external wall insulation, upgraded windows and doors, attic insulation, and the installation of a renewable heating system such as a heat pump—typically ranges from €35,000 to €50,000 or more, depending on contractor rates and grant availability through SEAI schemes.
Heating cost*
Estimated expense to heat this property every year
- Estimated annual heating cost: approximately 1,800 to 2,400 euro.
- Explanation: Given the E1 BER rating for a 93 square meter property, thermal efficiency is likely lower than modern homes, leading to increased reliance on heating systems and stoves during colder months.
Pollution Safe
9/10Environmental 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
11 THE WILLOWS, WILLOWFIELD RD, BALLINAMORE
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €220,000.00
Recent sales in the wider Ballinamore area
CALLOWHILL BALLINAMORE, BALLINAMORE, LEITRIM
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €415,000.00
5 DUN NA BO, WILLOWFIELD RD, BALLINAMORE
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €300,000.00
LAHARD, BALLINAMORE, CO. LEITRIM
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €160,000.00
NAOMH PADRAIG, AGHOO EAST, BALLINAMORE
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €75,000.00
MAIN STREET, BALLINAMORE, CO. LEITRIM
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €161,000.00
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
THE WILLOWS, AGHOO, BALLINAMORE
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €220,000.00
Buyer fees*
Associated expenses guide
- Estimated stamp duty: €1,480 — 1% of €148,000.
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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 euro plus VAT and outlays.
- Land registration fees: approximately 400 to 800 euro depending on the property value and registration type.
- Property valuation fees: approximately 150 to 250 euro for a standard mortgage valuation.
- Surveyor fees: approximately 500 to 1,200 euro depending on the level of detail and survey type.
- Annual home insurance: approximately 350 to 650 euro depending on the level of cover chosen.
Forum Talk
What people are saying about this area
- Residents in the Ballinamore area frequently highlight the tranquil countryside lifestyle and strong sense of community on local forums.
- Community groups actively discuss local tourism and amenities associated with the nearby Shannon-Erne Waterway.
- Local discussions often note the convenience of being just a short drive or distance from Ballinamore town for schools and daily shopping.
- Property hunters and locals frequently value the region for its outdoor recreational opportunities, particularly fishing and boating.
LifeFit Assessment
How well this property may suit your lifestyle
Family
7 areas- Young Children6/10
The generous 0.48-hectare site offers plenty of safe outdoor space for young children to play. However, the two-bedroom layout may become tight as a family grows.
- Teenagers5/10
While the countryside setting provides privacy and outdoor freedom, the remote rural location 2.5 km from Ballinamore means teenagers would rely heavily on parents for transport to social activities.
- Multi-generational Living3/10
With a floor area of 93 square metres and only two bedrooms and two bathrooms, the property lacks the spatial independence and scale required for comfortable multi-generational living.
- Single Buyers7/10
At an asking price of €148,000, which has remained stable based on tracked pricing history, this detached cottage presents an affordable entry point for single buyers seeking a manageable countryside home.
- Couples8/10
The two-bedroom layout, charming traditional features, and peaceful rural setting make this an ideal permanent residence or holiday retreat for couples wanting a quieter pace of life.
- Empty Nesters8/10
The property offers manageable single-family accommodation on a large plot, appealing to empty nesters looking to downsize to a scenic, low-density rural location.
- Retirees7/10
The single-family layout and peaceful environment suit retirement, though buyers should verify the accessibility of the first-floor bedrooms and bathrooms for long-term ageing in place.
Work
3 areas- Remote Working7/10
The peaceful environment offers a distraction-free space for home offices, though buyers should verify local broadband speeds and connection reliability for remote employment.
- Hybrid Commuting4/10
Located in County Leitrim with a rural address, hybrid commuting to major employment hubs like Dublin or Sligo would involve significant travel times.
- Retired9/10
The quiet countryside setting, manageable size, and affordable price point make this an ideal home for retirees seeking a relaxed pace of life.
Practical
8 areas- Ageing in Place5/10
While the property has a ground-floor bathroom and living spaces, the bedrooms are located on the first floor, which may present challenges for ageing in place without modification.
- Low Maintenance6/10
The 93 square metre footprint is relatively easy to upkeep, though the traditional detached nature and large c.0.48-hectare site require ongoing garden and exterior maintenance.
- Secure Gated Entry3/10
The property enjoys a private countryside setting, but buyers should verify if any formal gated entry system is currently installed.
- Minimalist Design4/10
The home retains much of the character and charm of a traditional Irish country home rather than a clean-lined minimalist design.
- Flexible Floor Plans5/10
The layout features standard rooms including a kitchen/dining area, living room, two bedrooms, and a dressing area, offering moderate flexibility for a 2-bed property.
- Heritage Home8/10
The property retains much of the character and traditional charm associated with classic Irish country homes, though buyers should verify its exact age and structural history.
- Ecological Setup4/10
The property carries a BER rating of E1, indicating that energy efficiency is relatively low and may require upgrades to meet modern ecological standards.
- Outdoor areas9/10
Featuring a generous c.0.48-hectare site with a rear patio opening from the living room, the property offers excellent private outdoor space.
Interests
9 areas- Gardening9/10
The generous c.0.48-hectare site provides ample outdoor space for enthusiastic gardeners to cultivate vegetable patches, landscaping, or outbuildings.
- Walking8/10
The surrounding countryside offers excellent walking opportunities, complemented by local walkways and proximity to the Shannon-Erne Waterway.
- Gym3/10
There are no major commercial gym facilities directly on-site or immediately adjacent, requiring travel into nearby Ballinamore for structured fitness classes.
- Cycling7/10
The quiet rural roads surrounding the property offer pleasant routes for recreational cycling, though the lack of dedicated cycle lanes means riders must share space with local traffic.
- Golf5/10
While the region is scenic and offers various outdoor pursuits, dedicated golf facilities would require travelling further afield into the wider Leitrim or Cavan areas.
- Fishing10/10
The property is located in an area renowned for its excellent fishing and boating, with close proximity to the Shannon-Erne Waterway.
- Horse Riding6/10
The rural setting and quiet country lanes provide a suitable backdrop for equestrian interests, though local stables or livery yards should be independently verified.
- Water Sports9/10
Proximity to the Shannon-Erne Waterway makes this an exceptional location for boating, kayaking, and other freshwater water sports.
- Entertaining7/10
Features such as a living room opening onto a rear patio and a modern kitchen/dining area with a stove provide good spaces for hosting guests in a private setting.
Lifestyle
5 areas- Quiet Living10/10
Surrounded by rolling countryside with attractive rural views and excellent privacy on a 0.48-hectare site, this property delivers an exceptionally quiet and tranquil living environment.
- Rural Living10/10
Located in a peaceful countryside setting just outside Ballinamore, the property embodies traditional rural Irish country living.
- Village Living6/10
While the property is rural, it benefits from being situated only 2.5 km from the busy town of Ballinamore, offering reasonable proximity to local amenities.
- Coastal Living1/10
The property is located inland in County Leitrim and has no proximity to the coast.
- Urban Living2/10
Situated in a rural countryside location, this home offers very limited exposure to urban density or city amenities.
Social
6 areas- Community Involvement6/10
Proximity to Ballinamore (2.5 km) allows residents to engage with local community groups, sports clubs, and events.
- Café Culture5/10
While rural, the nearby town of Ballinamore provides access to local cafés, restaurants, and everyday amenities.
- Nightlife3/10
Nightlife options are limited outside of local pubs in Ballinamore, as the immediate setting is strictly rural and residential.
- Health/Wellness groups5/10
Local health and wellness activities would typically be accessed via community facilities or clubs located in the nearby town centre.
- Networking Opportunities2/10
The rural location offers very few professional networking opportunities locally, making it more suited to remote workers or retirees.
- Tech-Hub Connectivity2/10
Being situated in the Leitrim countryside means there are no localized tech hubs, though remote digital connectivity can compensate depending on broadband infrastructure.
Listing information
- Agent
- Gordon Hughes Estate Agents
- Phone
- 071 964 5555
- Current status
- active
- Published on HouseDelve
- 14 October 2026
- Correction
- Report an issue
HD-FFAE5DHouseDelve · 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.