Houses on Fortfield Road in Terenure tend to be homes for life. This is evident from the Property Price Register, which shows that only 19 houses have changed hands in the 11 years since the register was introduced. It is not hard to see why. For parents of children about to start secondary school, the proximity to Terenure College and Our Lady's School is a major box ticked as children can walk to school. Add to that sport facilities, clubs, good transport links and amenities, which again cement the attraction for this part of Dublin.
Number 177 overlooks the grounds of Terenure College and Our Lady’s School is just three minutes’ walk away, so parental morning taxis will be a thing of the past. While the five-bedroom property, which currently extends to a generous 184sq m (1,981sq ft) will need complete refurbishment, the bones of a very fine double-fronted Edwardian home are there. High ceilings, original floorboards and panelling are all in situ waiting for the next family to give it a makeover and call the property home.
What is exceptional is the rear garden. Not only does it extend to 35m (118 ft) in length, it has the best and most coveted (south westerly) aspect. This would allow a light-filled extension to be added to the rear of the house. Though this will be subject to planning, there is much precedence for same – as a quick aerial view of the road indicates that many properties have done this already.
The Ber of G will be a major focus for new owners, but the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland has grants available for up to a third of the cost of individual energy upgrades. This will help to cover the cost, in part, for attic and wall insulation, solar panels and heat pump, in addition to up to €700 for energy controls.
"These are very much-liked properties in [the vicinity of] Bushy Park," says agent Tracey Gilbourne of Lisney, who is handling the sale. "They are great trading up houses and this property will be somebody's forever home".
Number 177 is on the market seeking €1.25 million.
