Address: 6 Princeton, Clonskeagh, Dublin 14 Agent: Bracken Estates

This four-bedroom house has huge windows overlooking its own pocket of land in south Dublin. In a cul-de-sac, the 168sq m (1,812sq ft) bungalow was built in 1971, and has a large floored attic and garage for potential expansion. The living room has a fireplace and floor-to-ceiling windows. BER: E2.

Plus: Ready to go; it’s even been stripped of furniture. Huge windows looking out onto its own bit of land.

Minus:It’s a shame the largest windows face the road to the front while smaller windows overlook the southwest facing garden.

Address: Smarmore Castle, Ardee, Co Louth Agent: Gallagher Property

With parts dating from the 12th century, this castle and house has details from all eras of history, including flagstone floors and fanlights right up to a gym installed recently. The property has been run as a hotel and has many reception rooms and at least two kitchens. The more historic rooms include an 18th-century drawing-room known as the “Blue Room” and the “Knight’s Room”. There is a restaurant, coffee shop and leisure centre with swimming pool. It sits on 15 acres of land.

Plus:A lot of accommodation and history, with some beautiful rooms, including the hall with flagstone floor and 18th-century drawing room.

Minus: Some parts need an overhaul, and some of the decor is dated