Address: 33 Oaklands Drive, Rathgar, Dublin 6
Agent: dVW Smith

Between Rathmines and Rathgar this four-bedroom semi-detached house measures 170.25sq m (1,833sq ft). Built in the 1950s, as Dublin city grew southwards, the house has gardens front and back and a garage to the side. On the ground floor are two connected reception rooms (one used as a diningroom), a kitchen and conservatory. On the floor above are four bedrooms (two sharing an en suite) and a bathroom. BER: F

Southwest facing garden. Its location – between Rathmines and Rathgar and close to Kildare Place National School.

The interiors need an update. The conservatory is functional but not exceptional.


Address: Rockforest Lodge, Mallow, Co Cork
Agent:Michael H Daniels and Co

In the Blackwater valley, this six-bedroom Georgian house sits on 20 acres (8 hectares) of land between Lavally Mountain and the Blackwater River. The 400sq m (4,300sq ft) house was built around 1820 by the Creagh family whose own home was nearby Creagh Castle. The house, which has many period features, includes a drawingroom, diningroom, sittingroom, billiard room, kitchen, utility, three bathrooms and six bedrooms. Outside is a swimming pool, 10 stables, gate lodge, sand arena, woodland and garden. BER: E2

A well-designed house with wonderful proportions: high ceilings, tall sash windows and wide, sweeping stairs.

A house and land of this size will take some upkeep and heating will need to be carefully thought through.