Four first-time buys from Dublin to Limerick

The Irish Times reviews four properties.

Capital: €250,000 ADDRESS: 11 Healy Street, Dublin 1. BEDROOMS: 2. SIZE: 63 sq m (678 sq ft). PARKING: On-street parking. MAINTENANCE: None. LINKS: Bus. STAMP DUTY: None. AGENT: Gunne. WEB: www.gunne.ie.

DESCRIPTION: This extended two-bed mid-terrace house is off the North Circular Road, within walking distance of the city centre and close to the East Point Business Park and the IFSC. Modern Shaker-style kitchen, bathroom and living/diningroom are on the ground floor. Upstairs are two double bedrooms. The property is in good condition and would suit a first-time buyer seeking city living.

Commute: €260,000 ADDRESS: 142 Deerpark, Ashbourne, Co Meath. BEDROOMS: 3. SIZE: 97 sq m (1,044 sq ft). PARKING: Driveway. MAINTENANCE: None. LINKS: Bus, rail, N2. STAMP DUTY: None. AGENT: Grimes. WEB: www.nicemove.ie.

DESCRIPTION: This 1990s-built semi is located within walking distance of schools and other local amenities. Livingroom, kitchen/dining, extra diningroom and toilet are on the ground floor. Upstairs there is an en suite main, double and single bedroom as well as main bathroom. On the Dublin side of Ashbourne, Deerpark is a two-minute drive from the N2, making it ideal for commuters.

Countrywide: €295,000 ADDRESS: Ardmhuire, Corbally Road, Limerick. BEDROOMS: 3. SIZE: 140 sq m (1,500 sq ft). PARKING: Space for three cars. MAINTENANCE: None . LINKS: Bus, rail, N7. STAMP DUTY: None. AGENT: de Courcy. WEB: www.decourcy.ie.

DESCRIPTION: A pretty semi-detached 1950s home in a mature residential area on the northside of Limerick, just 20 minutes from the city centre. Underfloor heating, modern fitted kitchen and a marble floor in the kitchen were added in 2001 when the house was refurbished. A substantial mature garden complete with shed and deck area make this a good buy for first-time couples.

Country: €199,000 ADDRESS: Roseberry Cottage, Ballinameela, Dungarvan, Co Wexford. BEDROOMS: 3. SIZE: 105 sq m (1,150 sq ft). PARKING: Ample. MAINTENANCE:  None. LINKS: N9. STAMP DUTY: None. AGENT: Sherry FitzGerald Reynolds. WEB: www.sherryfitz.ie.

DESCRIPTION: This large three-bed cottage stands on one acre and is located eight miles from Dungarvan town. Built in 1945, the house was renovated a year ago and is now a modern, bright residence. The diningroom, lounge, kitchen and bedrooms all command country views and a mature garden with pond and outside lighting adds the finishing touches to this countryside home.