Expert analysis and data-driven commentary on the Irish property market.
Dublin house prices averaged €540,000 in early 2026. But prices vary hugely — from €280k in parts of Dublin 15 to over €1.2m in Dalkey and Foxrock. This complete guide breaks down average prices by Dublin postcode, what's driving the market, and where value still exists.
Stamp duty is one of the biggest upfront costs when buying a home in Ireland — but first-time buyers have significant exemptions in 2026. This guide explains the exact rates, who qualifies for exemptions, and how to calculate your stamp duty bill on any property.
Buying your first home in Ireland in 2026? This complete guide covers Help to Buy, the First Home Scheme, 90% mortgages, deposit requirements, and the full buying process from mortgage approval to keys in hand.
Under 2026 Central Bank rules, first-time buyers in Ireland can borrow up to 4× their income with a 10% deposit. This guide explains exactly how much you can borrow, what your monthly repayments will be, and how interest rates affect your affordability.
From the legendary €58 million sale of Walford on Shrewsbury Road to the historic Castlemartin Estate, we rank the most expensive residential property transactions in Irish history. Discover the billionaire buyers, the magnificent estates, and the records that still stand today.
Kilkenny property market is booming in 2026, offering a perfect blend of medieval charm and modern living. With average prices at €320,000 and 6.8% annual growth, it remains a top choice for families and commuters. From the Marble City's historic terraces to spacious family homes in Thomastown and Callan, explore the best areas to buy, school catchments, and why Kilkenny is rated Ireland's #1 city for quality of life.
As we enter 2026, Ireland's property market stands at a crossroads. With the ECB maintaining rates at 2.5% and government housing targets of 40,000 units annually, market dynamics are shifting. Dublin prices are expected to moderate at +2-3% growth, while regional cities like Cork and Galway could see 5-7% appreciation. Supply constraints persist despite record completions, keeping upward pressure on prices in high-demand areas.
Wexford's property market is experiencing a renaissance in 2026. Average house prices have reached €285,000, up 6.2% from 2025, driven by remote workers seeking coastal living and improved transport links. From Wexford Town's Victorian terraces (€250k-€320k) to Rosslare's seaside homes (€320k-€450k), this guide covers the best areas to buy, price trends, schools, amenities, and what €300,000 gets you across the county.
Dublin's 24 postal districts show remarkable price divergence in early 2026. While D4 luxury properties remain flat at €850k average, D7 and D8 are surging with +8% growth as young professionals discover value. D15 leads affordability at €380k average for 3-beds, while D6 commands €720k. This analysis breaks down every district with current prices, rental yields (3.2%-5.8%), transport links, and future development plans shaping each area.
Buying your first home in 2026 requires navigating Central Bank LTV rules (90% for FTBs), Help-to-Buy (€30k max rebate), and competitive mortgage rates now at 3.8-4.2%. This comprehensive guide covers the entire journey: saving your deposit (typically €35k-€45k for a €350k home), getting mortgage approval, understanding conveyancing costs (€2,500-€3,500), and avoiding common pitfalls. Includes realistic timelines, cost breakdowns, and lender comparison.
Cork city and county recorded exceptional growth in 2025, with average prices reaching €365,000 (up 7.8%). Tech sector expansion, particularly Apple and Pfizer investments, plus UCC's growing international student population, are driving demand. Douglas and Ballincollig lead at €420k average, while Kinsale coastal properties command €580k+. Rental yields remain strong at 5.2-6.4%, making Cork Ireland's top investment market for 2026.
Mortgage rates have stabilized in early 2026 with the ECB holding at 2.5%. Fixed rates range from 3.75% (5-year) to 4.15% (2-year), while variables sit at 4.2-4.8%. AIB, BOI, and Avant Money lead on competitive pricing. For a €350k mortgage, monthly repayments range from €1,580 (3.75% fixed) to €1,720 (4.8% variable). This guide compares all lenders, explains fixed vs variable strategies, and shows how to save €15k+ over your mortgage term.
Galway's property market grew 6.8% in 2025, reaching €385,000 average. The city's tech hub status (Medtronic, Boston Scientific), Atlantic Technological University expansion, and unmatched quality of life are attracting buyers from Dublin. Salthill apartments (€320k-€450k) offer sea views, while Oranmore and Claregalway provide family homes at €380k-€420k. Rental demand is exceptional with 98% occupancy rates and 5.8% gross yields.
The HTB scheme remains Ireland's most valuable FTB incentive in 2026, offering up to €30,000 (10% of purchase price, max €500k property). To qualify: be a first-time buyer, purchase a new build, and have paid sufficient income tax over 4 years. This guide explains eligibility, application process, how to claim through Revenue, and whether restricting yourself to new builds (vs second-hand) makes financial sense. Includes worked examples and tax calculations.
Dublin's commuter belt offers 35-45% savings versus city center prices while maintaining strong appreciation. Naas (€395k avg, 35min to city) leads for value, Maynooth (€420k, university town) for amenities, and Greystones (€625k, DART access) for premium coastal living. Meath towns like Navan (€315k) and Ashbourne (€365k) provide excellent schools and M1 access. This analysis ranks 15 towns by price, transport, schools, and 5-year growth potential.
Gross rental yields across Ireland range from 3.4% (South Dublin) to 8.2% (Longford) in 2026. After tax, management, and maintenance, net yields are 2.1-5.8%. Top investment counties: Waterford (7.1% gross, strong student demand), Limerick (6.8%, tech growth), and Sligo (7.4%, tourism + IT Sligo). This analysis covers all 26 counties with yield calculations, void periods, tenant demand, capital appreciation forecasts, and total return projections.
A 30-minute viewing can prevent years of regret and costly repairs. This expert checklist covers structural red flags (cracks, damp, subsidence), hidden costs (BER upgrades, pyrite, mica), planning issues, and neighborhood research. Key checks: test all taps/electrics, inspect attic/foundations, verify BER cert (target B3+), check flood maps, and research local development plans. Includes questions to ask sellers, what to photograph, and how to spot problems agents might hide.
RPZs cover most urban areas in 2026, limiting rent increases to 2% annually. New rules clarify exemptions for substantial refurbishment (€15k+ investment), new tenancies after 2-year vacancy, and purpose-built student accommodation. Landlords must provide 90 days notice for rent increases with RTB-compliant documentation. Tenants have strengthened rights including 6-month notice for terminations and deposit protection. This guide explains the system, dispute resolution, and 2026 updates.