Overnight queueing for starter homes returned when about 20 people waited outside houses in the Swords Demesne scheme in Swords, north Dublin, last Thursday evening. Although the show-houses were not due to open until Friday morning, selling agents Hamilton Osborne King took a list of those queueing at around 10.30 p.m. and assured them that they would be given preference if they disbanded and returned next morning.

Most accepted the arrangement but remained overnight to pay their deposits when the show-houses opened. A further 30 couples who arrived on Friday also bought houses, ensuring a sell out of the entire first phase of 50 units.

The majority of the homes were 1,080 sq. ft three-bed semis costing £152,500. Some 1,280 sq. ft four-bedroom semis made from £170,000 to £190,000.