Two vastly different three-bedroom homes for just under €500k: An A-rated end-terrace with converted attic in Co. Meath, or an extravagantly decorated detached house in Co Wexford that wouldn't be out of place in a Disney film?
With the median price of a home in Dublin reaching €500,000, some people may be looking to greener pastures within the outer commuter belt, where you might get more space and more bang for your buck.
While a short commute is the dream for many an employee, the hybrid of in-office and remote working option means that some people are considering longer commutes, just as long as they don't have to do it every day.
Disney-esque Rosslare three-bed
Address: Dry Dock, Tenacre, Kilrane, Rosslare Harbour, Co. Wexford, Y35C7P3
Travel time to Dublin city centre: Two and a half hours
Asking price: €485,000
Agent: DNG McCormick Quinn
While Enniscorthy in Co Wexford did end up turning into a Disney village when it was used as a filming location for Disenchanted, we'd bet some location scouts are kicking themselves if they didn't spot this beautifully designed three-bedroom, two-bathroom detached residence some 40 minutes south in Rosslare Harbour.
Measuring 185 sq m and with a D1 BER rating, the home has a Rapunzel-esque tower and arched castle windows with leaded-look panes.
It features a nautical theme throughout with a blue and white colour scheme, punctuated on occasion by pops of pink.
Most of the home -- including the three bedrooms -- is on the ground floor, allowing for an 'upside-down' style of living.
The open plan living room's bay window is utilised throughout, allowing for loads of natural lighting with a stunning laminate wood floor.
The kitchen/dining room has bespoke fitted units and a tiled floor, while the three main bedrooms are adorned with gothic-style windows.
The bespoke built-in wardrobes with aquatic blue detailing keep with the home's nautical theme in the principal bedroom, which has an adjoining en-suite, while the remaining two bedrooms are equally spacious.
A separate family living area upstairs is accessed via the spiral staircase just beside the front door.
Pro: A 10-minute drive from Rosslare village
Con: The 150-minute drive to Dublin city centre may be too much for some.
Meath end-of-terrace with attic conversion
Address: 48 Churchfield Way, Ashbourne, Co Meath, A84 Y657
Travel time to Dublin City Centre: 47 minutes
Asking price: €495,000
Agent: DNG Tormey Lee
Less than an hour's drive from Dublin and situated on the western outskirts of Ashbourne, this yellow-brick fronted three-bedroom, end-terrace house has an A3 Ber-rating and PV panels.
Built in 2018 and measuring 112 square metres, excluding its attic conversion, this is a family home in a popular estate
The sitting room is at the front and fully utilises its space.
The kitchen/dining room is to the rear of the home, and has sleek cabinetry, a breakfast peninsula, and tiled flooring with a utility room that includes space under the stairs.
A patio door leads to the back garden.
Upstairs, there are three bedrooms. The principal bedroom is ensuite.
The remaining two bedrooms are both spaced for a double room, while the master bathroom benefits from a separate bathtub and shower.
The converted attic is light-filled and spacious - a place where you can escape the household, it would make an excellent home office on the days you're not travelling to Dublin.
Pro: Off-street parking for up to two cars
Con: Under building regulations, the attic space cannot be described as habitable space
