We here at Nestor Shanahan Auctioneers have watched older homes surprise buyers, sellers and even seasoned property watchers time and again. A Victorian redbrick with its original fireplaces, a Georgian townhouse with tall sash windows or a 1930s semi with its stained glass front door intact can attract remarkable interest, even when a newer home down the road looks better on paper. So why do these properties so often outperform expectations in the Irish market, and what should buyers and sellers keep in mind?
Character that cannot be replicated
Ornate cornicing, ceiling roses, marble or cast-iron fireplaces, original timber floors, panelled doors and decorative tiled hallways were crafted by hand, and they are expensive, and sometimes impossible, to reproduce convincingly today. No more period homes are being built, so the supply is fixed. When a well-preserved example comes to market, it stands out immediately in online listings, where so many modern homes look alike. That sense of individuality creates an emotional connection, and emotion is often what turns a viewing into an offer.
Established, well-connected locations
Many older homes sit in the heart of towns and villages or in mature suburbs that grew up around them. Buyers gain walkable access to shops, schools, parks and public transport, along with tree-lined streets and a settled community. Period properties also tend to come with larger gardens or more generous plots than newer schemes, offering room for an extension, a garden office or simply space to breathe.
Solid bones and generous proportions
High ceilings, tall windows and well-proportioned rooms make older homes feel bright and spacious. Many were built with thick masonry walls and quality materials intended to last for generations. Once sensitively upgraded, they can offer a combination of character and comfort that is genuinely hard to find elsewhere.
Energy upgrades are closing the gap
The main concern for most buyers is energy performance, as older homes typically have lower BER ratings. The picture is changing, however. Improvements such as attic insulation, upgraded windows, draught-proofing and heat pumps can make a significant difference, and SEAI grants are available for many of these works. Care is needed, though. Older solid-wall buildings often need breathable materials such as lime-based plasters, and the wrong insulation can trap moisture and lead to damp, so specialist advice is essential.
For homes that have stood empty for some time, the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant can be a real help. It applies to properties built before 2008 that have been vacant for two years or more, with up to €50,000 available. A top-up of up to €20,000 is available where the property is derelict, bringing the maximum to €70,000.
What buyers should weigh up
Commission a survey from someone experienced with older buildings and ask them to look closely at the roof, damp, timber, wiring and plumbing. Homes built before the 1970s may still have lead water pipes, which should be replaced. Check whether the property is a protected structure or sits within an Architectural Conservation Area, as this affects what works you can carry out without planning permission. Your local council's Record of Protected Structures and your solicitor can confirm the position. Finally, build a realistic renovation budget into your offer, with a contingency for the surprises that can lurk behind walls and under floors.
Tips for sellers
Restore rather than remove. A painted-over fireplace or carpeted-over original floor is a missed opportunity, and swapping timber sash windows for modern replacements can detract from a period home's appeal. Make original features the focus of your photographs and listing description, and declutter so buyers can appreciate the proportions of each room. Have your BER certificate in place early, as one is generally required when a home is offered for sale, and gather records of any upgrades such as rewiring, roof repairs or insulation. Documented improvements give buyers confidence and can help justify your asking price.
The bottom line
Older homes with original features offer something new builds cannot: history, craftsmanship and a strong sense of place. When their character is preserved and practical upgrades are made thoughtfully, they frequently attract more interest and stronger offers than either buyers or sellers expect.
If you would like to discuss buying or selling a property, contact us on 061 415337 or email info@nestorshanahan.ie or visit nestorshanahan.ie.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information and is intended for general guidance only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy at the time of publication, details may change and errors may occur. This content does not constitute financial, legal or professional advice. Readers should seek appropriate professional guidance before making decisions. Neither the publisher nor the authors accept liability for any loss arising from reliance on this material.
