Weekly Irish property market news and insights – for the industry, by the industry

Before we get stuck into the general property news of the week, below are the local and international stories that might be of particular interest:

• Did you know? From the strategic to the creative, Property District is Ireland’s leading communications for the planning, construction and property sectors. As a full-service communications agency specialising in helping your business create a dynamic brand, our team helps to generate positive buzz around planned developments and engages with the local community in a meaningful way. Our experienced team includes PR, marketers, publicists, journalists, copywriters and social media experts who know what it takes to make sure your message is heard. We offer customised integrated tactics and creative campaigns, executing them with precision to ensure you stand out from the crowd to achieve your company goals in 2023 – contact us at info@propertydistrict.ie to discuss.

 

• 11,500 homeless as figure hits record level for fifth straight month  https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-41042579.html

 

• Home truths for Ireland and the economy this year  https://www.irishexaminer.com/business/economy/arid-41039591.html Also, Businesses to grapple with host of issues this year – Rising interest rates, the housing crisis, and staff shortages among likely issues to affect Irish businesses in 2023  https://www.irishexaminer.com/business/economy/arid-41038361.html

 

• Piecing together Ireland’s housing crisis puzzle in 2023 – Piecing together a plan to tackle the seemingly intractable homes shortage requires joined-up thinking from the government and all parts of the industry  https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/piecing-together-irelands-housing-crisis-puzzle-in-2023-tv90chgmf

 

• Cooling housing market presents new challenges: Both sides of the market – supply and demand – are now in a bit of flux and rising interest rates add to uncertainty  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2023/01/07/cooling-housing-market-presents-new-challenges/?

 

• Property-sector deals to retreat from near-record €5.5bn levels of last year https://www.independent.ie/business/commercial-property/property-sector-deals-to-retreat-from-near-record-55bn-levels-of-last-year-42256518.html

 

• Not a single home has been built on State-owned land in the past four years  https://extra.ie/2023/01/02/news/irish-news/state-owned-land

 

• Delays and debate: Inside the Land Development Agency’s first four years – The Land Development Agency was launched in 2018 with the promise of becoming as significant a state body as the ESB or the IDA. Four years on, with no houses yet delivered on state land, what has the body achieved? https://www.businesspost.ie/news-focus/delays-and-debate-inside-the-ldas-first-four-years/Also – Internal report: LDA pays more to build affordable homes than EU neighbours: Confidential Land Development Agency comparison report seen by the Business Post https://www.businesspost.ie/news/internal-report-lda-pays-more-to-build-affordable-homes-than-eu-neighbours/
  
  

• Large families and single people increasingly unable to exit homelessness: Latest figures underline collapse of Housing Assistance Payment (Hap) scheme as a way out of homelessness, say agencies  https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/social-affairs/2023/01/03/large-families-and-single-people-increasingly-unable-to-exit-homelessness/

 

• First Ukrainians to move into modular housing estate in Cavan in March  https://www.northernsound.ie/news/first-ukrainians-to-move-into-modular-housing-estate-in-cavan-in-march-207720

 

• OPW unable to provide final cost of delivering 700 modular homes for Ukrainians – Total of 88 refugees still being housed in tents with delivery of modular properties slower than anticipated as sites are still being assessed  https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2023/01/06/opw-unable-to-provide-final-cost-of-delivering-700-modular-homes-for-ukrainians/

 

• Right-to-housing referendum: Recommendations due this month on wording of vote – Minister expects Housing Commission to deliver its recommendations early in new year  https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2023/01/04/government-working-on-wording-for-referendum-on-a-right-to-housing/

 

• Government fails to spend €340m of housing budget despite record homelessness  https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-41039843.html

 

• Huge number of apartments with planning permission in Dublin not being built – The Department of Public Expenditure report has raised concerns that developers sitting on active planning permissions could exasperate the housing crisis https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/dublin-news/huge-number-apartments-planning-permission-25908673.amp

 

• An Bord Pleanála structure was ‘not fit for purpose’ — Darragh O’Brien: Housing Minister says there was ‘a blurring of the lines between the governance of the board as an entity itself, and the planning decisions’ https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/politics/arid-41039756.html Also: Government’s handling of An Bord Pleanála scandal has revealed its ideology  https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/spotlight/arid-41030423.html

 

• We are still shackled to century-old planning standards introduced by Lloyd George – Switching to a low-rise, medium density model would be more sustainable and serve the market much better by keeping prices down and offering more choice  https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2023/01/06/we-are-still-shackled-to-century-old-planning-standards-introduced-by-lloyd-george/

 

• Concern over number of councillors dismissing expert advice and rezoning land in flood-risk areas: A recent rezoning was voted through despite assertions by council management that the move was ‘crazy’  https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/concern-over-number-of-councillors-dismissing-expert-advice-and-rezoning-land-in-flood-risk-areas-42258411.html

 

• Nama to report 2022 profit and confirms €4.9bn in forecast returns: Bad bank was set up in 2009 amid economic collapse  https://m.independent.ie/business/nama-to-report-2022-profit-and-confirms-49bn-in-forecast-returns-42263811.html

 

• Nama and its €450,000 a year boss has run their course  https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/nama-and-its-450-000-a-year-boss-has-run-their-course-r7p82wmdc

 

• Dolphin-linked firm which took in €65m from Irish investors rejects €400k offer for assets: Liquidators say litigation with a German insolvency administrator is expected to be launched soon  https://www.businesspost.ie/news/dolphin-linked-firm-which-took-in-e65m-from-irish-investors-rejects-e400k-offer-for-assets/

  
  
  Dear Leaders: Stop Making These Excuses About the Lack of Diversity (including “Our industry is not diverse”). If you want to build a culture of inclusion where people feel like they belong, it starts with questioning assumptions. https://www.entrepreneur.com/growing-a-business/dear-leaders-stop-making-these-excuses-about-the-lack-of/439417

 

• Nearly 700 forestry road licences issued in Ireland  https://www.agriland.ie/farming-news/nearly-700-forestry-road-licences-issued-in-ireland/ Also: Coillte To Sell 123,000 Acres To British Fund To Help Meet Green Targets  https://businessplus.ie/news/coillte-british-fund/

 

• Archives: Why should building be so much dearer in Cork than elsewhere? One hundred years ago, the Cork Examiner published a series of opinion pieces by a contributor known as ‘Periscope’, highlighting a range of social and political issues, some of which are as relevant today as they were back then  https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/spotlight/arid-41038505.html

 

• A Brief History of Maps and Their Role in Urban Development  https://www.archdaily.com/994518/a-brief-history-of-maps-and-their-role-in-urban-development

 

• After a Holiday Lull, Big Tech Layoffs Around the Globe Set to Begin  https://www.analyticsinsight.net/after-a-holiday-lull-big-tech-layoffs-around-the-globe-set-to-begin/

 

• Amazon to slash over 18,000 jobs as part of massive layoffs: Last year it was reported that the tech giant was planning to cut 10,000 jobs with then-Tanaiste Leo Vardakar stating no job losses were anticipated for Ireland  https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/world-news/amazon-slash-over-18000-jobs-25898516.amp

 

• Impact of Salesforce cuts on Dublin workforce to become clear in coming days – Minister yet to be informed of any redundancies at firm which employs more than 2,500 in Ireland  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2023/01/04/salesforce-to-cut-staff-by-10-and-close-some-offices/

 

• Salesforce wants to cut $3 billion to $5 billion in costs, and real estate is a big target. Some offices have less than 10% occupancy, exec says.  https://fortune.com/2023/01/06/salesforce-wants-to-cut-3-billion-to-5-billion-costs-real-estate-big-target-some-offices-have-less-than-10-percent-occupancy/
  Ireland Sees Rising Corporate-Tax Loss Risk Under Worldwide Deal: Officials say cost in lost revenue may now exceed €2 billion – OECD global reform set to be phased in from next year https://news.bloombergtax.com/daily-tax-report/ireland-sees-rising-corporate-tax-loss-risk-under-worldwide-deal

 

• Bord na Móna Wagonmaster LM305 bring brought back to life by Offaly TY students  https://www.offalyexpress.ie/news/tullamore-tribune/1004752/bord-na-mona-wagonmaster-lm305-bring-brought-back-to-life-by-offaly-students.html

 

If you missed last week’s round-up, you can catch up here: https://propertydistrict.ie/sunday-roundup/

As always, you might let me know if I have missed out on any relevant property news by emailing  carol@propertydistrict.ie.

(Apologies in advance for any typos, it’s difficult to get good help on a Sunday. Also, I use voice to text dictation so just sound out anything that really doesn’t make sense in a strong rural accent and that should help!)

 

SUNDAY LISTEN

The new iPropertyRadio season kicks off this week – celebrating 4 years on air!

What started as #PropertyMatters, a single 60-minute show on Dublin South FM 93.9FM every Tuesday night, has now evolved into an online station hosting the very best construction, urban planning, property and proptech radio shows and podcasts from around the world. Our new website – produced by Hear Me Roar Media – offers audiences live and recorded access to global built environment content. To have your industry podcast included in the iPropertyRadio line-up, or to contribute as a guest on any of the show on iPropertyRadio.com, email hello@ipropertyradio.com

Some of our 2022 highlights on iPropertyRadio

Watch back and listen back: https://ipropertyradio.com/

Produced by Hear Me Roar Media  https://hearmeroarmedia.com/

PLACEMAKING

OPEN PUBLIC CONSULTATIONS AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

 

• How to engage the community in placemaking in 2023 | PLACEengage  https://placeengage.com/how-to-engage-the-community-in-placemaking-in-2023/

 

• Dublin triumphs over Milan and Boston in world’s greatest city rankings: The research, published by worldbestcities.com, praises Dublin’s tech sector and describes it as one of the safest metropolises in the world https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/dublin-news/dublin-triumphs-over-milan-boston-25908569

 

• Liffey Street plaza construction to begin in weeks – Work to create pedestrian zone beside Ha’penny Bridge to take up to two years  https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/dublin/2023/01/04/liffey-street-plaza-construction-to-begin-in-weeks/

 

• Legal challenge taken against Council over 1916 Moore Street buildings: The historical buildings which housed rebels in the 1916 rising has been the subject of controversy for some time  https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/dublin-news/legal-challenge-taken-against-council-2

 

• Then-and-now pics compare Dublin in 2023 to 30, 40, 50 and 60 years ago – See how Dublin has changed since ’63, ’73, ’83 and ’93  https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/history/gallery/now-pics-compare-dublin-2023-25855538

 

• Dublin’s ‘iconic’ Constitution Hill flats to undergo €44.5m revamp – Council will add extra storey to old blocks and build two new seven-storey blocks and 10 houses to create total of 124 homes https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2023/01/07/dublins-iconic-constitution-hill-flats-to-undergo-445m-revamp/

 

• MetroLink will lay waste to chunks of the city centre but won’t integrate city transportation – Incoherent approach to multibillion euro development indicates that the National Transport Authority is making it up as it goes along https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2023/01/07/metrolink-will-lay-waste-to-chunks-of-the-city-centre-but-wont-integrate-city-transportation/

 

• Wheelchair ramps at Dún Laoghaire Baths described as ‘mountainous’ and inaccessible  https://lovindublin.com/amp/news/wheelchair-ramps-at-dun-laoghaire-baths-described-as-mountainous-and-inaccessible

 

• Bus lanes in Ranelagh and car parking at Merrion Square to be reallocated for cyclists: Measures to create continuous segregated cycling routes are part of Dublin City Council’s new ‘active travel’ plans  https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/dublin/2023/01/05/bus-lanes-car-parking-to-be-reallocated-for-cyclists-from-ranelagh-and-ballsbridge-to-city-centre/

 

• BAM announce recipients of Community Grants Scheme & Educational Bursaries for the new children’s hospital project  https://dublinpeople.com/news/dublin/articles/2023/01/06/68556/?amp=1

 

 

• Bartra charges €800 per month over original quote for co-living units: Company’s first shared living development suites in Dún Laoghaire advertised for rent of €1,880 a month  https://www.businesspost.ie/news/bartra-charges-e800-per-month-over-original-quote-for-co-living-units/

 

• ‘First come, first served’ for new affordable homes in Wicklow – Some 36 affordable homes in Wicklow will be snapped up by bidders nationwide as Minister for Housing Darragh O’Brien says only 30 per cent will be reserved for locals https://www.businesspost.ie/politics/first-come-first-served-for-new-affordable-homes-in-wicklow/

• Q&A: Can I put a mobile home on my land without planning permission? Planning permission is required, even within the curtilage of your own home  https://www.irishexaminer.com/property/homeandgardens/arid-40975916.html

 

• Cork council unveils plan to make city healthier, safer and more inclusive: Council wants to ensure views of ‘seldom heard and under-represented communities’ are catered for, including lone parents, Travellers, asylum seekers and people experiencing barriers based on disability, age, and carer status  https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/munster/arid-41040899.html

 

• All the places in Cork where you can drop off your Christmas tree for free  https://www.yaycork.ie/all-the-places-in-cork-where-you-can-drop-off-your-christmas-tree-for-free/

 

• Lack of investment costing lives and prosperity, say West Cork communities: Safety fears across Bandon, Innishannon, Bantry, and Clonakilty as traffic volumes escalate  https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/munster/arid-41039123.html

 

• Middens, fulacht fiadh and coastal walks at Cork’s Little Island – Little Island was an actual island until an early 19th-century infill project saw it joined to the mainland  https://www.irishexaminer.com/lifestyle/outdoors/arid-41040479.html

 

• Masterplan unveiled for Seamus Quirke Road regeneration site  https://connachttribune.ie/masterplan-unveiled-for-seamus-quirke-road-regeneration-site/

 

• Over a third more planning permission requests granted for Galway county last year  https://connachttribune.ie/over-a-third-more-planning-permission-requests-granted-for-galway-county-last-year/

 

• Tesco removes incorrect sign as Gaeilge in new Galway shop following complaint: Tesco have apologised and removed the sign  https://www.thejournal.ie/tesco-galway-5961911-Jan2023/

 

• Planners unravel proposal for Aran knitwear storage shed https://connachttribune.ie/planners-unravel-proposal-for-aran-knitwear-storage-shed/

 

• Kilkenny Chamber of Commerce says they’ll be looking closely at how Tesco will fit in with the county development plan – The retailer completed a deal to buy the land on New Road in the past few weeks  https://kclr96fm.com/kilkenny-chamber-of-commerce-says-theyll-be-looking-closely-at-how-tesco-will-fit-in-with-the-county-development-plan/

 

• Consultation open on west Mayo town design statement  https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2023/01/04/consultation-open-on-west-mayo-town-design-statement/

 

• Campervan facility plan at north Mayo docks: Public consultation is open on plans for new campervan facilities in Belmullet. https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2023/01/06/campervan-facility-plan-at-north-mayo-docks/

 

• Castlecomer Discovery Park to receive funding under the Geoheritage Grant Scheme: The grants aim to tell the story of Irish geology and increase public engagement  https://kclr96fm.com/castlecomer-discovery-park-to-receive-funding-under-the-geoheritage-grant-scheme/

 

• 25 homeowners and 520 landowners directly affected by new road plans – A draft preliminary business case was issued to TII which showed that the project offered clear financial and investment benefits.  https://www.donegallive.ie/news/home/1005166/25-homeowners-and-520-landowners-directly-affected-by-new-road-plans.html

 

CONSTRUCTION & DEVELOPMENT NEWS

• An Bord Pleanála delays could invalidate applications for thousands of homes  https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-41042060.html

 

• Cost of building hundreds of schools soars amid construction inflation. Rising costs are making it difficult for contractors to stand over tendered costs  https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/education/2023/01/04/cost-of-building-hundreds-of-schools-soars-amid-construction-inflation/

 

• More than 50,000 construction workers needed to meet Government’s current housing targets  https://extra.ie/2023/01/03/news/50000-construction-workers-needed

 

• ‘Contracts flaw’ blamed for soaring bills at NCH – Children’s hospital constructor wins claim for €643m costs with €481m more disputed  https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/contracts-flaw-blamed-for-soaring-bills-at-nch-0ddqlc69l

 

• Long-derelict Dublin city site to be redeveloped as homeless accommodation by McVerry Trust – Fishamble Street site previously designated for ‘mom and pop developer’ scheme https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/dublin/2023/01/02/mcverry-trust-plans-to-build-on-long-derelict-dublin-city-site/

 

• Glenveagh will build fewer houses than expected this year due to planning ‘gridlock’ – Revenues at homebuilder climbed 36% last year to €649m  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2023/01/05/glenveagh-lowers-housing-delivery-expectations-due-to-planning-gridlock/

 

• Glenveagh setback this week may open up opportunity for rival Cairn – Homebuilder grappling with struggling planning process  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2023/01/06/glenveagh-setback-this-week-may-open-up-opportunity-for-rival-cairn/

 

• Tetrarch dealt blow as Dublin City Council refuses Raheny planning permission: Developer had planned so-called senior living scheme near Sybil Hill House on Dublin’s northside  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2023/01/05/tetrarch-dealt-blow-as-dublin-city-council-refuses-raheny-planning-permission/

 

• Luxury spa near Dean Townhouse will be Harcourt Street’s first – Developer Paddy McKillen jr’s project will include a number of hotel bedrooms, and a restaurant  https://www.businesspost.ie/news/luxury-spa-near-dean-townhouse-will-be-harcourt-streets-first/

 

• Coopers Cross to set new standards in smart buildings, with its commercial development also lined up for WiredScore Platinum, LEED Platinum, WELL Platinum, BREEAM Outstanding and A1 BER certifications: https://www.irishrealestate.news/coopers-cross-is-irelands-first-platinum-smartscore-certified-commercial-development/

 

• TU campus in Blanchardstown is set to be one of the benefactors of a new building as part of a €250 million construction project approved by the Government https://dublinpeople.com/news/education/articles/2023/01/05/dublin-colleges-to-get-new-campus-buildings/

 

• New whiskey distillery gets green light for North Dublin creating 150 jobs  https://m.independent.ie/regionals/dublin/dublin-news/new-whiskey-distillery-gets-green-light-for-north-dublin-creating-150-jobs-42269119.html

 

• Student accommodation and social housing are booming, but what’s the prognosis for the wider market?  https://www.irishexaminer.com/property/residential/arid-41041853.html

 

• Latest spectacular drone footage from Dunkettle shows progress as works restart: The Dunkettle is set to see a surge in traffic as schools and workplaces return to normal this week  https://www.corkbeo.ie/news/local-news/latest-spectacular-drone-footage-dunkettle-25882074.amp

 

• 194-Bed Student Accommodation Ringaskiddy Scheme Edges Towards Decision  https://www.carrigdhoun.com/amp/194-bed-student-accommodation-ringaskiddy-scheme-edges-towards-decision

 

• Developer launches fresh bid for high-rise blocks in Knocknacarra  https://connachttribune.ie/developer-launches-fresh-bid-for-high-rise-blocks-in-knocknacarra/

 

• Approval for apartment development at Ballymoneen Road  https://connachttribune.ie/approval-for-apartment-development-at-ballymoneen-road/

 

• University Hospital Limerick seeks to build 96-bed block: Hospital is also recruiting emergency department staff and patient flow coordinators to ease overcrowding https://www.businesspost.ie/news/university-hospital-limerick-seeks-to-build-96-bed-block/

 

 

• Planning permission sought for 13 bed residential home in Waterford  https://www.wlrfm.com/news/planning-permission-sought-for-13-bed-residential-home-in-waterford-285455

 

• Concern Grows Over Continued Delay To Midlands Sports Centre  https://www.midlands103.com/news/midlands-news/concern-grows-over-continued-delay-to-midlands-sports-centre/

 

• Planning lodged for major expansion of Mullingar housing estate  https://www.westmeathexaminer.ie/2023/01/06/planning-lodged-for-major-expansion-of-mullingar-housing-estate/

 

• Planning lodged for new development at Lough Sheever Corporate Park  https://www.westmeathexaminer.ie/2023/01/05/planning-lodged-for-new-development-at-lough-sheever-corporate-park/

 

• Sale of Island of Geese site to Courts Service progressing  https://www.radiokerry.ie/news/sale-of-island-of-geese-site-to-courts-service-progressing-311632

 

• Concern over new housing density for Mayo urban sites  https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2023/01/04/concern-over-new-housing-density-for-mayo-urban-sites/

 

• Donegal tunnellers behind (and beneath!) the Mayfair Hotel Megabuild  https://www.donegaldaily.com/2023/01/04/donegal-tunnellers-behind-and-beneath-the-mayfair-hotel-megabuild/

 

• Kane Group doubles profits as group eyes further expansion  https://www.irishnews.com/business/2023/01/04/news/kane_group_doubles_profits_as_group_eyes_further_expansion-2969837/

 

• The nine major developments to get underway in Belfast in 2023 – Here are some of the developments to get underway in the city this year  https://www.belfastlive.co.uk/news/belfast-news/nine-major-developments-underway-belfast-25860345.amp

 

• Investigation launched over Grenfell graffiti at Kingspan Stadium  https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/investigation-launched-after-grenfell-graffiti-painted-on-ulster-rugby-stadium-1413121.html

 

• Movers and shakers: Biggest construction and engineering appointments in December 2022  https://www.newcivilengineer.com/latest/movers-and-shakers-biggest-construction-and-engineering-appointments-in-december-2022-03-01-2023/?tkn=1

 

• Shellmet: the helmet made from waste scallop shells  https://www.wallpaper.com/design-interiors/shellmet-recycled-scallop-shells-helmet

 

• Ditching concrete for earth to build a cleaner future: It was used to build the Great Wall of China and Spain’s mediaeval Alhambra Palace – and now earth is back in vogue as a building material https://amp.france24.com/en/live-news/20230104-ditching-concrete-for-earth-to-build-a-cleaner-future

 

• Already committed to sustainability and circularity, Hilti is taking its efforts to the next level. Annette Borén, CFO and head of sustainability for Hilti Northern Europe, tells CM how the company’s unique business model enables its holistic approach.  https://constructionmanagement.co.uk/hilti-steps-up-on-sustainability/

 

• Mobility, Managerial Competencies and the Future of Architectural Practice in The 2020’s  https://www.archdaily.com/994571/mobility-managerial-competencies-and-the-future-of-architectural-practice-in-the-2020-s

 

• Turner and Townsend partners have been paid a total of £18.9m for their shares following CBRE’s £960m deal to take a large stake in the business 18 months ago.  https://www.building.co.uk/news/tandt-partners-received-18m-payout-following-cbre-deal/5121170.article

 

PROPTECH, ESG, MMC & CONSTRUCTION INNOVATION

• Proptech Ireland is updating the database of 2023 Irish technology providers for the built environment – From smart design and planning right through to the smart property transaction, where does your Irish-led or Ireland-based proptech  or MMC business sit?  Pease take five minutes to add or update your details to our internationally-shared listing here: SIGN UP HERE: *https://prop-tech.ie/register/ * and email product or service details to hello@prop-tech.ie

 

• Homebuyer’s Hero to launch New Builds platform  https://aimgroup.com/2023/01/02/homebuyers-hero-to-launch-new-builds-platform/

 

• Proptech investing had down year in 2022  http://connectedremag.com/uncategorized/proptech-investing-had-down-year-in-2022/

 

• Real estate technology trends for 2023 – a breakdown  https://www.mpamag.com/us/specialty/technology/real-estate-technology-trends-for-2023-a-breakdown/431908

 

• Blueprint Releases Predictions for 2023 from 25 Leading Proptech and Construction Tech Luminaries  https://www.prweb.com/releases/2023/1/prweb19090807.htm

 

• Will Proptech Continue to Consolidate in 2023? The short answer is yes. But the long answer involves when and with what capital.  https://commercialobserver.com/2023/01/proptech-consolidation-mergers/

 

• 4 survival strategies for proptech housing startups as they enter the sector’s hardest year yet https://www.businessinsider.com/4-ways-proptechs-can-weather-the-storm-in-2023-2023-1 

  
  Four Key Elements For Disrupting The Real Estate Tech Space https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesbusinesscouncil/2023/01/04/four-key-elements-for-disrupting-the-real-estate-tech-space/

 

• Digital Wallets Core to Adam Neumann’s Latest PropTech Venture, Flow  https://www.pymnts.com/mobile-wallets/2023/digital-wallets-core-to-adam-neumans-latest-proptech-venture-flow/

 

• Topcon invests in the future of construction with donation to TU Dublin  https://irishbuildingmagazine.ie/2023/01/03/topcon-invests-in-the-future-of-construction-with-donation-to-tu-dublin/

 

• Construction Tech—A Tough Nut To Crack  https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbestechcouncil/2022/12/29/construction-tech-a-tough-nut-to-crack/?sh=78b17489376c

 

• Restoring confidence in construction with advanced technology  https://www.theengineer.co.uk/content/opinion/comment-restoring-confidence-in-construction-with-advanced-technology

 

• 3D printing: can it make a mark on construction?  https://constructionmanagement.co.uk/3d-printing-can-it-make-a-mark-on-construction/

 

• Digitising construction sector, Y Combinator-backed Tenderd helps rent, track equipment:  https://yourstory.com/ys-gulf/digitising-construction-sector-y-combinator-backed-tenderd

 

• Roofing accessories manufacturer Klober has launched an online platform ‘Training Zone’ to help merchants and stockists access online training and information so they feel confident when it comes to advising contractors on product choice and projects https://www.total-contractor.co.uk/new-online-learning-platform-launched-by-klober-for-merchants/

 

• How tech groundbreaker Greg Smithies went from Elon Musk’s inner circle to tackling real estate’s $18 trillion carbon-emissions problem  https://www.businessinsider.com/elon-musk-inner-circle-real-estate-tech-18-trillion-decarbonization-2023-1

 

• Snaptrude gets VC backing to take on Autodesk in building design space  https://techcrunch.com/2023/01/04/snaptrude-seed-funding-accel-foundamental-vc-autodesk/amp/

 

• 2023 could be the year of mixed reality  https://venturebeat-com.cdn.ampproject.org/c/s/venturebeat.com/virtual/2023-could-be-the-year-of-mixed-reality/amp/

 

• Eve’s new gadget turns retro rollers into smart blinds / The upgrade kit will let you add HomeKit and Matter control to your existing roller shades. Matter means it’ll work on all major smart home platforms, not just Apple’s.  https://www.theverge.com/2023/1/4/23531179/eve-motionblinds-upgrade-rolling-shades-smart-home-matter-upgrade

 

• MyTower, an Israel-based proptech startup, is set to utilize its state-of-the-art service management solutions to improve owners’ and multi-family NOI via new revenue streams in the American market  https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/23/01/ab30265821/this-proptech-startup-is-set-to-revolutionize-american-real-estate

 

• How YourOwnRoom is building a Profitable & Scalable Proptech rental and property management business – YouTube https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=R9-IKnIbY5c

 

• Breaking down second home co-ownership with Pacaso’s Austin Allison: Can selling shares of vacation homes be a viable business? TRD interviewed the startup’s CEO to find out  https://therealdeal.com/2023/01/04/watch-breaking-down-second-home-co-ownership-with-pacasos-austin-allison/

 

• The oven won’t talk to the fridge: ‘smart’ homes struggle  https://kalkinemedia.com/us/news/lifestyle/the-oven-wont-talk-to-the-fridge-smart-homes-struggle

 

• Doorstead closes on $21.5M to make sure you always have a tenant for your rental property | TechCrunch https://techcrunch.com/2023/01/06/proptech-doorstead-closes-on-21-5m-to/ 

 

ENERGY, CLIMATE & ENVIRONMENT

• Number of people unable to properly heat homes has more than doubled, CSO finds: 43 per cent of renters would consider emigrating to cope, rising to 57 per cent in the 18-29 age group  https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2023/01/03/number-of-people-unable-to-properly-heat-homes-has-more-than-doubled-cso-finds/

 

• Climate crisis in Ireland: The environmental wins and losses of 2022: Celebrities that lent their voices to Irish environmental campaigns in 2022 include Joaquin Phoenix, Mark Ruffalo and Pierce Brosnan  https://www.buzz.ie/news/irish-news/environment-climate-change-ireland-2022-28447804

 

• New law aims to secure Ireland’s oil supply into the future – As well as a bill addressing energy security, Cabinet will consider consolidating measures to bring vacant homes back into use   https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/politics/arid-41040719.html

 

• Designed to Perform: An Illustrated Guide to Delivering Energy Efficient Homes  https://www.bdonline.co.uk/briefing/designed-to-perform-an-illustrated-guide-to-delivering-energy-efficient-homes/5120540.article

 

• Speeding up renewable energy – bottlenecks and how you resolve them  https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2023/01/speeding-up-sustainable-energy-bottlenecks-and-how-you-resolve-them-davos2023/

 

• Butendiek windfarm: The estimated €185 million deal, which will see Germany become the energy company’s second largest market, is expected to close in first quarter of year https://www.businesspost.ie/company-watch/greencoat-takes-22-5-per-cent-stake-in-butendiek-windfarm/
  
  

 

RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY NEWS (including PRS)

• Dublin 2023: What The Year Ahead Holds For Real Estate  https://www.irishexaminer.com/property/residential/arid-41040236.html

 

• Ireland’s property market ‘resilient’ to cost-of-living fears – A report found annual asking price inflation was 3.6% in Dublin  https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/dublin-news/irelands-property-market-resilient-cost-25881036.amp

 

• Us: “Of course our government understands the scale of Ireland’s housing crisis…”  Also us: “Landlords in line for tax relief on cookers and fridges under new plans being considered by government” https://www.buzz.ie/news/irish-news/landlords-tax-relief-housing-minister-28864532.amp

 

• Housing affordability at its worst for 14 years as property prices almost eight times the average salary: Residential prices to rise by 4pc this year, says Davy/MyHome.ie report https://m.independent.ie/business/personal-finance/property-mortgages/housing-affordability-at-its-worst-for-14-years-as-property-prices-almost-eight-times-the-average-salary-42258409.html

 

• Foundation laid for the housing crisis in the Celtic Tiger years – Conor Power, former estate agent, says a house is a home, not a commodity  https://www.irishexaminer.com/property/residential/arid-41042036.html

 

• Townsend Street flats regeneration to start eight years after project approved – Peter McVerry Trust to provide 20 permanent social homes in 100-year-old complex  https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/dublin/2023/01/05/townsend-street-flats-regeneration-to-start-eight-years-after-project-approved/

 

• First ‘cost rental’ homes under new agency include two-beds for €1,455 per month – The agency says the prices at the Archers’ Wood development in Delgany are pitched at 30% below comparable open market prices  https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2023/01/04/land-development-agencys-first-cost-rental-offers-two-bed-homes-for-1455-per-month/

 

• Revealed: The areas where it is cheaper to buy a home than rent – and the six areas where it pays to rent  https://www.independent.ie/opinion/analysis/revealed-the-areas-where-it-is-cheaper-to-buy-a-home-than-rent-and-the-six-areas-where-it-pays-to-rent-42256731.html

 

• Explainer: How to claim €500 rent tax credit as Revenue portal opens to 400,000 eligible taxpayers: The tax credit is available for any person that was in rental accommodation in 2022, allowing them to claim back €500 this month.  https://www.irishexaminer.com/business/economy/arid-41040179.html

 

• Short-term letting rules were ‘destined to fail’ after only 50 planning permissions granted: In total, there were 16,181 homes available to rent on Airbnb as of 21 December. https://www.thejournal.ie/short-term-letting-airbnb-5952879-Jan2023/

 

• No homeowner using Airbnb told Dublin council about rental nights details: People using short-term letting platforms are legally obliged to tell the local authorities how many nights they rented out their properties https://www.businesspost.ie/news/no-homeowner-using-airbnb-told-dublin-council-about-rental-nights-details/
  
  

• Many tenants overholding on properties as they can find nowhere else to go: Rent arrears and overholding were the most frequent dispute types reported to the RTB in 2021, analysis shows  https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/social-affairs/2023/01/04/many-tenants-overholding-on-properties-as-they-can-find-nowhere-else-to-go/

 

• Average salary needed to buy three-bedroom house in every Dublin postcode: The price of the average home in Dublin is €436,000  https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/property/dublin-homes-average-salary-needed-25884218.amp

 

• Dublin’s cheapest home on the market for less than €170,000 – Take a sneak peak inside the Balbriggan townhouse which boasts and impressive array of features at a bargain price https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/dublins-cheapest-home-market-less-25911804.amp

 

• Busy year in Cork’s 2022 residential property market: The lure of living outside of the city has never been so prevalent, with some exceptional country homes sales https://www.irishexaminer.com/property/residential/arid-41039465.html

 

• The 50 Cork homes that sold for €1m+ in 2022 – Over 50 Cork homes made over €1m in 2022, a near record year at the top end — while young Irish actor Paul Mescal bought at a more affordable level in Scull, West Cork  https://www.irishexaminer.com/property/residential/arid-41039102.html

 

• Dollars were the big bucks buyers in Irish country homes 2022, but the wealthy and returning Irish put it up to them too: The US buyer was the standout performer in this particular segment of the market, which proved strong in Cork  https://www.irishexaminer.com/property/residential/arid-41040416.html

 

• Selling Sunsets? Cork’s coastal and West Cork markets are attracting US dollar buyers and home-grown elite: Pent-up demand post-pandemic for coastal settings, but get your paperwork in order if you are planning to cash in, advises agent Maeve McCarthy  https://www.irishexaminer.com/property/residential/arid-41041697.h

 

• HOUSE OF THE WEEK: Magical views of Mizen Head are up for grabs in Goleen five-bed farmhouse for €425,000  https://www.southernstar.ie/property/house-of-the-week-magical-views-of-mizen-head-are-up-for-grabs-in-goleen-five-bed-farmhouse-for-e425000-4254881

 

• Raising the roof: |Tipperary’s million euro properties that sold in 2022  https://www.tipperarylive.ie/news/local-news/1002467/raising-the-roof-tipperary-s-million-euro-properties-that-sold-in-2022.html

 

• 21-acre holding at foot of MacGillycuddy’s Reeks for public auction: Huge interest in holding in one of the most mythical and scenic locations in Ireland  https://www.irishexaminer.com/farming/arid-41040215.html

 

• ‘Spectacular’ overhaul of Midlands house to feature on Room to Improve  https://www.westmeathindependent.ie/2023/01/05/spectacular-overhaul-of-midlands-house-to-feature-on-room-to-improve/

 

• Check out the top 10 trending interiors styles for 2023: New year, new design influences — from magenta to ‘meaningfulness’ and master craftsmanship, here’s your insider’s guide to the 10 essential interiors trends for the coming year  https://m.independent.ie/life/home-garden/interiors/check-out-the-top-10-trending-interiors-styles-for-2023-42265049.html

  
  
  Eight snazzy and smart picks for your home: Esther N McCarthy checks out super sofas, perfect prints and ethical elephants  https://www.irishexaminer.com/property/homeandgardens/arid-41040383.html

 

• 6 Healing Energy Design Tricks for a Balanced Home in 2023; Shift away from negativity and invite positive vibes into your living spaces  https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/healing-energy-design-tricks-balanced-home-2023 Also: Use feng shui to make your home interiors work for you  – January is as good a time as any to figure out how to make our homes and rooms work more harmoniously  https://www.irishexaminer.com/property/homeandgardens/arid-41037899.html

 

• Sarah Jessica Parker spent first Christmas in Ireland since Covid pandemic  https://www.breakingnews.ie/entertainment/sarah-jessica-parker-spent-first-christmas-in-ireland-since-covid-pandemic-1413344.html

 

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY NEWS

• 2022 Dublin office market showed “resilience”, with take-up almost 50% higher than 2021. Figures from Savills found market take-up was set to surpass 500,000 sq ft in the final quarter of 2022, bringing total take-up for the year to at least 2.24m sq ft.  https://www.insidermedia.com/news/ireland/dublin-office-take-up-recovers-from-2021

 

• David McWilliams: Who is going to rent all these expensive offices now? The US is pre-eminent yet again, and what happens there will have repercussions for all of us https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2023/01/07/david-mcwilliams-who-is-going-to-rent-all-these-expensive-offices-now/

 

• Citigroup signs deal for new European HQ in Dublin docklands – Global banking giant strikes agreement with Johnny Ronan’s RGRE for 300,000sq ft office campus at Waterfront South Central https://www.irishtimes.com/property/commercial-property/2023/01/06/citigroup-signs-deal-for-new-european-hq-in-dublin-docklands/?

 

• Volume of retail sales fell for seventh consecutive month in November – Largest annual volume decreases were other retail sales, motor trades, food, beverages and tobacco, and furniture and lighting  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2023/01/06/volume-of-retail-sales-fell-for-seventh-consecutive-month-in-november/

 

• Canadian company lines up bid for some of Ireland’s biggest shopping centres – Canadian company lines up bid for Harcourt Developments’ portfolio of six centres after buying Dundalk Retail Park  https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/canadian-company-lines-up-bid-for-some-of-irelands-biggest-shopping-centres-6f7223dvj

 

• Savvy Female Entrepreneurs Are Leading The Bricks-And-Mortar Comeback  https://businessplus.ie/sme/female-entrepreneurs-bricks-and-mortar/

 

• Thérapie Clinic to expand business into the United States: Botox clinics company now has 67 outlets in Ireland, Britain and India and will open its first US branch in New York  https://www.businesspost.ie/news/therapie-clinic-to-expand-business-into-the-united-states/
  Award-winning fish shop and restaurant goes into liquidation: Saltwater Grocery’s founders Niall Sabongi and Karl Whelan ‘gave it everything’, but ‘it was accumulating debt and we had to make a decision’  https://www.businesspost.ie/news/award-winning-fish-shop-and-restaurant-goes-into-liquidation/

‘End of an era’ as East Cork pub set to close:The venue still has a future under new owners – however it won’t be as a bar as the pub licence is being sold  https://www.corkbeo.ie/news/local-news/end-era-east-cork-pub-25910248

Galway hotelier puts jigsaw pieces together for Victoria extension  https://connachttribune.ie/galway-hotelier-puts-jigsaw-pieces-together-for-victoria-extension/

 

• An Seanachai Of Co. Waterford Offered For Sale  https://www.hospitalityireland.com/amp/pub-bar-nightclub/an-seanachai-of-co-waterford-offered-for-sale-195605

 

• DECISION is due in the coming weeks on a proposed development at the American Fruits and Flavors facility in Athy. https://kildare-nationalist.ie/2023/01/04/american-fruits-and-flavors-apply-for-planning-permission-for-extension-to-athy-plant/

 

INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY NEWS

• UK faces worst and longest recession in G7, say economists: Survey predicts a continuing cost-of-living squeeze and soaring borrowing costs in 2023 https://www.irishtimes.com/business/economy/2023/01/03/uk-faces-worst-and-longest-recession-in-g7-say-economists/?

 

• UK Mortgage Approvals Plummet As Property Market Weakens  https://www.forbes.com/uk/advisor/mortgages/2023/01/04/mortgage-updates/

 

• TSB slashes mortgage rates by up to 1.3 percentage points – UK lenders are jostling for home loan customers in spite of rising Bank of England base rates https://www.ft.com/content/a5c50f32-1188-4f13-8939-06a40c0904e5

 

• UK tenants should brace themselves for soaring rents, letting agents warn https://propertyindustryeye.com/tenants-should-brace-themselves-for-soaring-rents-letting-agents-warn/

 

• Housebuyers hoping to move into Ikea’s first flatpack housing development in the UK are now wishing they could finish the homes themselves after more than a year of repeated delays.  https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/dream-ikea-home-falls-apart-buyers-costly-delays-9t8ml6mvr?t=ie

 

• Construction faces “perfect storm” for insolvencies  https://www.constructionenquirer.com/2023/01/03/construction-faces-perfect-storm-for-insolvencies/

 

• UK drive to get more women into the construction industry – Support with childcare and training costs will encourage more women into site management roles  https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/drive-to-get-more-women-into-the-construction-industry/

 

• Rising stars: three fast-growing UK construction businesses – The eighth and final part of our series of up-and-coming company profiles focuses on construction and built environment businesses based outside London https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/rising-stars-three-fast-growing-construction-businesses-852q6v36t

 

• The changing landscape of France’s real estate market – According to one of France’s leading real estate agencies, 2022 real estate market figures show that, in Paris, the market has changed as more people want to work from home.  https://www.lemonde.fr/en/france/article/2023/01/03/the-changing-landscape-of-france-s-real-estate-market_6010166_7.html

 

• Airbnb has failed in an EU court challenge to Italian tax rules requiring the platform to collect a 21 per cent rental income tax and share information with tax authorities.   https://www.irishlegal.com/articles/cjeu-airbnb-fails-in-challenge-to-italian-rental-income-tax-rules

 

• The New Federal Grants to Help Cities Ditch ‘NIMBY’-backed Zoning https://www.route-fifty.com/infrastructure/2023/01/new-federal-grants-aim-help-cities-ditch-nimby-backed-zoning-laws/381474/

 

• Why has Canada banned most foreigners from buying homes till 2025?  https://www.wionews.com/world/why-has-canada-banned-most-foreigners-from-buying-homes-till-2025-we-explain-548800

 

• Twelve architecture projects to look forward to in 2023  https://www.dezeen.com/2023/01/03/architecture-buildings-2023-roundup/

 

• ‘Here, people shake our hands in the street’: the architects redesigning rural Australia – The relationship to the land and climate requires a specific kind of design and architects like Phillip Nielsen and Katharina Hendel are pushing for a revolution https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/jan/05/here-people-shake-our-hands-in-the-street-the-architects-redesigning-rural-australia

 

FACEBOOK GROUP FOR IRISH PROPERTY BUYERS & INVESTORS

Crowd-sourcing answers topical property questions:

As many of you might know, my annual property book The Irish Property Buyers’ Handbook (since 2011) was rebranded in 2018 and now appears as part of The Property Insider series, published by Oak Tree Press, the first three titles are now published and available here: https://www.amazon.com/Carol-Tallon/

From 2020, the publishers and I wanted to ensure the content remains topical and we are now doing this by crowd-sourcing home buyer and investor queries, with crowd-sourced and editorial team answers.

Join the Facebook Group here to contribute: https://www.facebook.com/groups/IrishPropertyBuyers/