Address: 8 Rutland Cottages, Ballybough, Dublin 1 Agent: Gunne (Fairview) In the north inner city, this one-bedroom 41 sq m (441 sq ft) house has been creatively extended into a mezzanine bedroom with Velux window and copper stairs up to it. The living room is floored with reclaimed pine that had a former life in a Scottish church and there is heating beneath it as well as an open fire. The blue and red kitchen shares this space and the bedroom overlooks it. There's also a shower room, WC and utility room. Ber: G

Plus: It’s in a central location. The house has been rewired.

Minus: While a lot has been done to the interior, there is more to do. There are some creative touches, but they won’t suit everyone.

Address: Smerwick, Ballyferriter, Co Kerry Agent: Fitzgerald and Associates Wonderful views across the countryside and down to Smerwick Harbour and the Atlantic are to be had from this three-bedroom stone farmhouse. The 90 sq m (969 sq ft) house is on about half an acre of land with stone outbuildings. It includes two receptions, a kitchen and shower room on the ground floor and three bedrooms and a bathroom above.

Plus: About 11 miles from Dingle, it is in a wonderful setting with views to the sea and the mountains.

Minus: The house is quite exposed and some more planting around it , especially of trees, would soften both its aesthetic and the force of the weather.