Going to the country?

Moving on:Look beyond the traditional hotspots of Kildare and Meath to Laois, Offaly, Carlow and Westmeath where agents say there is still good value to be had.

Border patrol:Now that the Troubles appear to be over it may be time to take a look at Louth, Monaghan, Cavan and Leitrim for some hidden value and beauty.

Road maps:Check with the NRA and local councils as new road-building projects are opening up hitherto remote areas of the country.

Think of "virgin territory" such as "deep south" Kilkenny, "wild west" Waterford, and "unspoilt" stretches of Tipperary. Proximity (not too close) to motorway is a plus.

Regional airports:Rich Irish buyers in Britain don't necessarily want access to Dublin. Houses within 30 miles of regional airports such as Waterford, Knock, Cork, Galway and Shannon are now conveniently accessible for weekends from British airports.

Staff quarters:Large estates require considerable maintenance and security. So properties with staff accommodation, or outbuildings which can be converted, are very desirable.

Views:Buyers are becoming fussier about their vistas, peace and tranquillity. There's no point in acquiring rolling parklands to escape stress, noise and nosy neighbours if you look out on a new estate, intensive pig farm or a motorway flyover. Properties with large landbanks - which provide a cocoon of privacy rather than redevelopment potential - are increasingly in demand.

Contemporary houses:Not every one wants a period house. Georgians may look gorgeous but often require expensive renovations and upkeep. Agents say there is also a demand for contemporary country houses which some families prefer. Building your own is the ideal for many but pesky planners can thwart your dreams.

Parochial houses:With a decline in the number of priests, former parochial houses are being sold off by the Catholic church. Ironically, although built for single occupancy, such houses tend to be well-built and spacious ideal family homes.

Don't despair:Moving to the country needn't cost millions. if you're really strapped for cash offer to live in a rich friend's gate lodge, while "keeping an eye" on the estate in lieu of rent.