Wish you were in Carrickfergus? A decade ago, the medieval town was one of the least expensive places to live in the North but since the development of the marina, the town has become an unexpectedly desirable location to set up home.
While prices may shock local people still coming to terms with the mini-property boom in Belfast, Dublin speculators have been pleasantly surprised that they can expect to receive change from £200,000 sterling for a spacious apartment by the sea.
Dubliners are among those snapping up the waterfront homes, but the majority of buyers are from the North. According to estate agent Bill McKelvey, who is looking after the sale of 26 apartments in the marina administration building, the superb location and quality of the build are attracting interest.
"The apartments come fully floored and fully tiled, with a fitted kitchen," he says. Built by Patton Homes, the newly built apartments are situated at the marina entrance and have views overlooking Belfast Lough and the castle.
They range in price from £155,000 to £290,000 for penthouses with double height atriums. The smallest apartments are 1,000 sq ft increasing to 1,800 sq ft for a four-bedroom property. A £14,000 "personal choice sum" which buyers can use for a range of flooring and kitchen interiors to be fitted by the builder is included in the price.
Among those contemplating purchase are people who left Carrickfergus and made their fortune in America or Australia. "Now they are coming back and a marina apartment is a status symbol. They are saying to their neighbours, `look, I can afford to buy the best in Carrick'," says McKelvey.
Morrison Homes has 206 waterfront and inland units in Rodgers Bay and, according to marketing manager Moya Fitzpatrick, demand has been "phenomenal". Phase 1 and 2 are sold out but Phase 3, due to be completed this summer, features two-bedroom apartments for around £100,000. Rental values for property in Rodgers Bay is £500 to £550 per week.
"The developments are all extremely high specification with luxury fitted kitchens complete with integrated white goods and luxury bathrooms, many of them en suite," says Ms Fitzpatrick.
The properties also feature double glazing and natural gas central heating with the usual annual management fees for the upkeep of common areas.
Carrickfergus is a 20-minute drive from Belfast with easy access to both City and Belfast International Airports.
