Residential property values in Roscommon are predicted to increase by 7-8%

House prices are set to rise even further this year, with estate agents predicting an average rise of 4.9% over the next 12 months, according to the 2024 Sunday Times Property Price Guide, a dedicated 32-page supplement published free with the Sunday Times.

The Sunday Times Property Price Guide features interviews with a number of Ireland’s estate agents who outline their predictions for the year.

According to the guide house prices in Roscommon could rise by up to 8%, while Kilkenny and Laois could also see values increase by 10%. The overwhelming majority of counties are predicted to experience growth in values during 2024, with just a few areas remaining static. These include Monaghan (0%), Louth (0–5%) and County Westmeath (0-7%) The cost of building and renovating, the trickle of properties coming to the market along with the tightening of planning laws are all factors affecting price values. It is now cheaper to buy than to build in the likes of Wexford, Waterford, Mayo and Offaly. There is strong competition for second hand homes with buyers willing to consider fixer-uppers despite the huge costs involved in renovation projects.

Second-hand bungalows are back on trend, appealing to downsizers in rural towns and villages across Ireland. Buyers in Donegal are seeking properties from the 70’s unaffected by Mica while remote workers are looking for bargain properties in Sligo.

Motivated first time buyers are taking advantage of government incentives to get their foot on the property ladder. However, many have reservations about the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant given the 10-year occupancy clause or are underestimating the amount of work needed and the cost, while some are planning to tackle construction themselves.

Returning emigrants with savings and cash buyers from Dublin and commuter counties are pricing out locals from the area. However, the National Broadband Plan has been a game changer for many rural counties as buyers seek more space, home office potential, and a better quality of life in rural counties and coastal areas.

The Sunday Times Property Price Guide 2024 reveals that the top five most affordable areas for three-bed semi-detached houses are: Mohill, County Leitrim (€155,000); Ballinamore, County Leitrim (€160,000); Castlerea, County Roscommon (€160,000); Ballyconnell, County Cavan (€160,000) and Strokestown, County Roscommon (€165,000).