The prime country homes market in Ireland saw an impressive 44% increase in the total transaction value in 2024, reaching €275 million, according to a new report from property advisor, Savills Ireland.
This surge highlights a robust demand for luxury country homes, with the market far exceeding the 10-year average transaction value of €139 million.
Using Property Price Register data, Savills examined prime country home transactions, which are defined as transactions greater than one million euros and located outside of Dublin, the major regional cities, and north Wicklow.
Savills report noted that despite economic uncertainties and fluctuating global conditions, the luxury segment of Ireland’s real estate market has shown remarkable resilience and attractiveness. The average transaction size held steady at €1.6 million across 168 deals, underscoring a stable high-end market.
Transaction Highlights of 2024:
Cork: Emerged as the leader with €84.0 million in sales across 35 transactions.
Kildare: Close behind with €64.5 million from 40 transactions.
Wicklow: Generated €21.6 million from 18 deals.
Meath and Kerry: Also noted for substantial activity, recording €16.4 million and €13.4 million in sales, respectively.
County
Vale of Sales
No. of Transactions
Cork
€83,960,705
35
Kildare
€64,516,404
40
Wicklow
€21,615,000
18
Meath
€16,403,100
13
Kerry
€13,438,672
9
Kilkenny
€11,690,000
8
Limerick
€9,183,200
6
Donegal
€8,627,160
6
Tipperary
€7,910,500
6
Mayo
€7,470,000
6
Waterford
€6,284,850
3
Wexford
€5,866,500
5
Sligo
€4,649,000
3
Louth
€4,613,918
3
Galway
€4,112,000
3
Clare
€2,350,000
2
Carlow
€2,275,000
2
Cianan Duff, Associate Director at Savills Ireland commented, “The 44% growth in transaction value this year is a testament to the enduring appeal of Ireland’s prime country homes. Buyers continue to value the unique combination of luxury and privacy that these properties offer.”
Catherine McAuliffe, Director of Cork Residential, emphasised the regional demand, stating, “Cork has particularly stood out this year as a prime destination for high-end residential buyers. Its blend of scenic landscapes and vibrant local economy makes it a top choice for those seeking exceptional country homes.”
The report indicates that the proximity of counties like Kildare and Wicklow to Dublin contributes significantly to their popularity, accommodating buyers who favor a hybrid working lifestyle with easy access to urban centers.
This significant growth in the value of prime country homes in 2024 is indicative of a broader trend in Ireland’s real estate sector, where both domestic and international buyers are drawn to properties that offer expansive living spaces, modern amenities, and natural surroundings.
