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: 

 

• Property investors offended by ‘vulture funds’ label, conference hears: Real estate representatives say housing crisis won’t be solved if development rules keep changing https://www.irishtimes.com/news/ireland/irish-news/property-investors-offended-by-vulture-funds-label-conference-hears-1.4681075   [*These labels are not just offensive, they are inaccurate and ultimately unhelpful. For our part, we are correcting incorrect terms before sharing news on this platform. Also, Property District industry clients are insisting on correct terminology being used in any media interview and we urge others to insist on this too. All housing solution providers have a role to play in tackling Ireland’s housing crisis, it is counterproductive to pit one solution provider against another…]

 

• Dublin’s Lord Mayor seeks ways to ‘punish’ developers who ‘flip’ housing sites  https://m.independent.ie/news/environment/dublins-lord-mayor-seeks-ways-to-punish-developers-who-flip-housing-sites-40885723.html

 

• Meath county councillors have claimed a major victory after voting to keep planning rules which allow one-off housing in rural areas, an ideal pursued by people who claim to have a connection to the countryside either through family links or who work there https://www.meathchronicle.ie/2021/09/22/planning-rules-for-one-off-housing-to-remain-unchanged/

 

• Watchdog says Government will struggle to deliver on housing promises: Borrowing plan could overheat economy and leave less room to react to future shocks https://www.irishtimes.com/business/economy/watchdog-says-government-will-struggle-to-deliver-on-housing-promises-1.4680124

 

• Belief that building more homes will bring down prices ‘a red herring’: Housing conference hears many young people slaves to rent because of mortgage rules  https://www.irishtimes.com/news/ireland/irish-news/belief-that-building-more-homes-will-bring-down-prices-a-red-herring-1.4680788

 

• Central Bank decision on shared-equity housing scheme set for November: Regulator says it is considering interaction between scheme and mortgage rules  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/economy/central-bank-decision-on-shared-equity-housing-scheme-set-for-november-1.4681167

 

• Housing Finance Agency approved €1 billion in loans to approved housing bodies last year: Individual loans ranged from €17,000 to €43 million.  https://www.thejournal.ie/housing-finance-agency-5553299-Sep2021/?amp=1

 

• Government considering 100% compensation scheme for ‘most but not all’ mica homeowners  https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40704182.html

 

• Government bosses told to “wake the hell up” amid fears Longford to be omitted from State’s affordable housing plan: Dozens of Longford families face being caught in rental trap if county is not included in plan, meeting hears  https://www.longfordleader.ie/news/home/668363/government-bosses-told-to-wake-the-hell-up-amid-fears-longford-to-be-omitted-from-state-s-affordable-housing-plan.html

 

• Why universities have stopped building student accommodation: High building costs, housing shortages and delays in college offers have created crisis https://www.irishtimes.com/news/education/why-universities-have-stopped-building-student-accommodation-1.4683102

 

• Further turmoil at homeless charity as TD withdraws board nomination: Gary Gannon among three individuals to withdraw from process at Inner City Helping Homeless  https://www.irishtimes.com/news/social-affairs/further-turmoil-at-homeless-charity-as-td-withdraws-board-nomination-1.4680146

 

• Some employers opt for hybrid working models ahead of workplaces reopening: Civil Service favours blended working, AIB to implement ‘right to disconnect’ policy https://www.irishtimes.com/news/ireland/irish-news/some-employers-opt-for-hybrid-working-models-ahead-of-workplaces-reopening-1.4678201

 

• The Global Housing Market Is Broken, and It’s Dividing Entire Countries: The dream of owning a home is increasingly out of reach. Democratic and authoritarian governments alike are struggling with the consequences. https://www.bloomberg.com/news/features/2021-09-19/global-housing-markets-are-hurting-and-it-s-getting-political

 

• Urgent legislation may be needed as Rights of Way deadline looms  https://m.independent.ie/business/farming/news/farming-news/urgent-legislation-may-be-needed-as-rights-of-way-deadline-looms-40867943.html

 

• Government Urged To Clarify Future Of DART+ And Metrolink Projects https://www.eastcoast.fm/news/wicklow-news/government-urged-to-clarify-future-of-dart-and-metrolink-projects/ Also: Government says it hasn’t decided to delay construction of Metrolink until 2027 but start date down to planning permission  https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/government-says-it-hasnt-decided-to-delay-construction-of-metrolink-until-2027-but-start-date-down-to-planning-permission-40874955.html

 

• Forestry: ‘Cliff-edge drop in productivity gone on far too long’  https://www.agriland.ie/farming-news/forestry-cliff-edge-drop-in-productivity-gone-on-far-too-long/ Also: Home-building potential of Irish wood underlined in new poll  https://www.agriland.ie/farming-news/home-building-potential-of-irish-wood-underlined-in-new-poll/

 

• Old Ireland in Colour: Second instalment gives a fresh look at the past: It was the biggest book in Ireland last year, so it isn’t surprising that dozens of more old photographs have been given the colour treatment for a follow-up  https://www.irishexaminer.com/lifestyle/artsandculture/arid-40702343.html?type=amp

 

• Call for Taoiseach to stop challenge to Irish language ruling: Advocacy group claims ‘explicit hostility’ within State agencies to providing language rights  https://www.irishtimes.com/news/ireland/irish-news/call-for-taoiseach-to-stop-challenge-to-irish-language-ruling-1.4679788

 

• New legislation will clarify law on property rights for landowners in Mayo  https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2021/09/21/new-legislation-will-clarify-law-on-property-rights-for-landowners-in-mayo/

 

• Open House Dublin 2021: Here are 10 must-see events and tours  https://m.independent.ie/regionals/dublin/open-house-dublin-2021-here-are-10-must-see-events-and-tours-40872462.html Also: Building Tours Archives – Open House Dublin 2021 https://openhousedublin.com/whats-on/strands/building-tours/

 

• Dogs Trust urges workplaces to allow dogs in the office: Many people became dog owners during the pandemic  https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/dublin-news/dogs-trust-workplace-employees-office-21616202

 

• Denizen is building high-tech office pods for the perfect workday  https://techcrunch.com/2021/09/23/denizen-tiny-offices-nick-foley/

 

• The Irish Venture Capital Association has called on the Government to establish a working group to examine the conditions for companies trying to raise money: In its pre-budget submission, the IVCA said that an institutional investment in innovative firms working group should be established in order to create a “stronger Irish equity culture”.  https://m.independent.ie/business/irish/calls-for-working-group-to-assess-funding-landscape-for-startups-40886209.html

 

 

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

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

 

 

Property Matters: Ireland’s first weekly property radio show and podcast, which launched in January 2019 on Dublin South FM 93.9 and is now available internationally via iTunes and Spotify podcast (www.iPropertyRadio.com), retuurned earlier this month for a fourth season. The team delivers 60 minutes of industry chat weekly with guests from the areas of planning, construction, property and proptech.

 

This week on #PropertyMatters iPropertyRadio.com , we are joined by Patrick Davitt FIPAV REV Comm for Oaths, CEO of IPAV – Institute of Professional Auctioneers and Valuers; James Benson of the Irish Home Builders Association and Construction Industry Federation (CIF); and Richard Henshall, CEO of Recognyte to discuss Ireland’s housing market, housing delivery over the medium term, and trends/insights emerging from the use of machine learning in real estate. 

 

1. Part 1: https://youtu.be/BlXJw6wvTF0 

 

 

2. Part 2: https://youtu.be/GUML5VJo3TY 

 

 

3. Part 3: https://youtu.be/2KAvQ1a6TvQ

 

 

*Listen back to this and all shows at: https://ipropertyradio.com 

*Listen back to all shows at: https://ipropertyradio.com/property-matters/

Email the Property Matters team at info@propertydistrict.ie 

 

 

PLACEMAKING

PUBLIC CONSULTATION AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

 

• Campaigners gather in Dublin to protest ‘unfair’ planning system: Environmental groups call for ‘overhaul’ of process to give communities greater say  https://www.irishtimes.com/news/ireland/irish-news/campaigners-gather-in-dublin-to-protest-unfair-planning-system-1.4683141

 

• What’s in a name? Charlie Flanagan on a sense of place: An Irishman’s Diary  https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/what-s-in-a-name-charlie-flanagan-on-a-sense-of-place-1.4678129?mode=amp

 

• Regeneration of large site in west Dublin could take decades: Senior planner has warned that the execution of what is being called a ‘paradigm shift’ in urban regeneration in the capital might take as long as a century to be fully realised https://www.businesspost.ie/Planning/regeneration-of-large-site-in-west-dublin-could-take-decades-e4fe6e46

 

• Dublin MetroLink delays slammed as ‘unacceptable’: The reported delays have been blasted as another set back for North Dublin https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/dublin-news/metrolink-delays-dublin-fingal-slams-21625167

 

• Dublin City Council received 7,000 submissions about traffic-free streets initiative: Dublin City Council closed off two Dublin Street to traffic to facilitate outdoor dining  https://www.thejournal.ie/dublin-city-council-7000-submissions-capel-street-parliament-street-traffic-free-5555180-Sep2021/

 

• Trial pedestrianisation of George’s Street in Dun Laoghaire to end next week: The council confirmed that the pedestrianisation will end on Thursday, September 30, however some elements from the trial will remain. https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/dublin-news/trial-pedestrianisation-georges-street-dun-21678310

 

• Royal Canal: Dublin City Council seeks to narrow segments: Narrowing of waterway to facilitate bikes and vehicles used for maintenance or by residents https://www.irishtimes.com/news/ireland/irish-news/royal-canal-dublin-city-council-seeks-to-narrow-segments-1.4679196

 

• Seventy apartment owners and tenants oppose €75m Beacon Hospital expansion: Planning application seeks 70-care bed extension and A&E facilities  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/commercial-property/seventy-apartment-owners-and-tenants-oppose-75m-beacon-hospital-expansion-1.4680191

 

• Take a walk through Cork city on Saturday – and take a second look at derelict buildings: Tenants’ union CATU Cork is working with Frank O’Connor and Jude Sherry to create a ‘walking festival’ trail of Cork’s derelict sites – with music and poetry  https://www.irishexaminer.com/lifestyle/artsandculture/arid-40701935.html

 

• Rows of empty mill-worker houses in Cork city to be brought back to life as social housing: The historic terrace of 18 houses, now derelict, are to be given a major makeover and brought back into use  https://www.corkbeo.ie/news/local-news/rows-empty-mill-worker-houses-21630488

 

• Woodquay urban animation project set to be delivered by summer 2022 https://galwaybayfm.ie/galway-bay-fm-news-desk/woodquay-urban-animation-project-set-to-be-delivered-by-summer-2022/

 

• Limerick Person of the Month: Murals ‘draw out’ the spirit of Limerick  https://www.limerickleader.ie/news/home/666698/limerick-person-of-the-month-murals-draw-out-the-spirit-of-limerick.html

 

• Glin sparkles on Shannon Estuary Way  https://www.limerickleader.ie/news/community/666688/glin-sparkles-on-shannon-estuary-way.html

 

• Best Place to Live in Ireland 2021: Why Waterford city won  https://www.irishtimes.com/life-and-style/best-place-to-live-in-ireland-2021-why-waterford-city-won-1.4680655?mode=amp

 

• Wheels of change move very slowly for Athy | Kildare Nationalist https://kildare-nationalist.ie/2021/09/19/wheels-of-change-move-very-slowly-for-athy/

 

• ‘Enough crappy fencing’ residents want wall at new Portlaoise estate  https://www.leinsterexpress.ie/news/portlaoise-/666909/enough-crappy-fencing-residents-want-wall-at-new-portlaoise-estate.html

 

 

*PLACEengage: The future of speedy, successful placemaking for property developers is here – Property developers and project owners ready Public Consultation are encouraged to contact the PLACEengage team for full details*

 

 

CONSTRUCTION & DEVELOPMENT NEWS

 

*Calling all Irish construction SMEs, please sign up with the Government-appointed CSG Innovation & Digital Adoption body, which will be resourcing firms to identify and overcome challenges to critical digitization. Link here: http://eepurl.com/hDFYfL 

 

 

• Land hoarding a big obstacle to more homes being built, report says: It is ‘crystal clear there is a landbank out there which needs to be used,’ according to the chief executive of the The Housing Finance Agency https://www.businesspost.ie/houses/land-hoarding-a-big-obstacle-to-more-homes-being-built-report-says-da9e5458

 

• Housing Agency told O’Brien how to avoid legal action on affordable housing: Previously unpublished Housing Agency report from December 2020 said government could avoid legal challenges by developers if an “up to 20 per cent” wording was used in new Part V https://www.businesspost.ie/houses/housing-agency-told-obrien-how-to-avoid-legal-action-on-affordable-housing-move-c3d0daa7

 

• Can standard-issue building contracts cope with today’s changing realities?  https://m.independent.ie/business/commercial-property/can-standard-issue-building-contracts-cope-with-todays-changing-realities-40879089.html

 

• Engineers threaten to walk away from state’s mica redress scheme: Several members of Engineers Ireland have ‘already indicated their intention to withdraw from the scheme’ due to unease over being asked to recommend partial repairs to mica-damaged homes https://www.businesspost.ie/houses/engineers-threaten-to-walk-away-from-states-mica-redress-scheme-de9e9752

 

• Intel sought Ibec briefing on planning delays and legal challenges: The US tech behemoth met with employers’ group Ibec last week to outline its concerns about this country’s planning system https://www.businesspost.ie/companies/intel-sought-ibec-briefing-on-planning-delays-and-legal-challenges-f7727f6f

 

• Government to revise policy on data centres after push from tech giants: Google, Amazon and Microsoft have urged the state to support plans for their continued expansion, in spite of the energy regulator’s warnings of ‘rolling blackouts’  https://www.businesspost.ie/energy/government-to-revise-policy-on-data-centres-after-push-from-tech-giants-d566f4dd

 

• PAC blasts Department’s lack of transparency on National Children’s Hospital https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40702934.html Also: A campaign of disruption to work at the National Children’s Hospital construction site in Dublin has intensified with a fake bomb placed there on Monday morning.  https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/news/fake-bomb-is-the-latest-disruption-to-childrens-hospital-site-40875481.html

 

• McKillen-backed firm joins Pigeon House revamp row: Oval Horizon claims that after being selected as the preferred bidder following a competitive three-year tender process, the council abandoned the plans after it was served with legal proceedings by RGRE, an unsuccessful bidder https://www.businesspost.ie/legal/mckillen-backed-firm-joins-pigeon-house-revamp-row-b9c23426

 

• DCC chief exec Owen Keegan has written to An Bord Pleanála voicing his concern over the 1,614-unit apartment complex proposed for Holy Cross College in Drumcondra  https://dublinpeople.com/news/dublin/articles/2021/09/23/dcc-chief-exec-says-drumcondra-1614-unit-complex-is-alarming/

 

• Site acquired for swanky brand new US Embassy in south Dublin: The US will retain the current Ballsbridge embassy for at least the next 10 years so as to allow for the redevelopment of the new site  https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/dublin-news/site-acquired-swanky-brand-new-21636082

 

• Approval for 13-storey build to rent block in Dún Laoghaire appealed: Judicial review over plan for 100 apartments and two retail units on St Michael’s Hospital site https://www.irishtimes.com/business/construction/approval-for-13-storey-build-to-rent-block-in-d%C3%BAn-laoghaire-appealed-1.4680117

 

• €235m north Dublin build-to-rent apartment scheme given green light by An Bord Pleanála: In a separate case, ABP also granted planning for 114 build-to-rent apartments in Dublin 16.  https://www.thejournal.ie/build-to-rent-apartment-scheme-charlestown-5553916-Sep2021/?amp=1

 

• Twinlite, Tristan Capital to sell build-to-rent schemes in Clongriffin: Price tag is expected to be €300m plus, with interest from pension funds and investors  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/construction/twinlite-tristan-capital-to-sell-build-to-rent-schemes-in-clongriffin-1.4680193

 

• Calls for Bill to stop developers turning student housing into tourist accommodation: Angry exchanges over causes of crisis as students protest outside Dáil https://www.irishtimes.com/news/politics/oireachtas/calls-for-bill-to-stop-developers-turning-student-housing-into-tourist-accommodation-1.4681916

 

• Well-known Dublin pub facing demolition under plans for over 270 student bed spaces: Property firm has lodged application for student accommodation scheme on site of Baker’s Corner pub  https://m.independent.ie/regionals/dublin/southside/well-known-dublin-pub-facing-demolition-under-plans-for-over-270-student-bed-spaces-40878430.html

 

• Kennedy Wilson wins approval for St Stephen’s Green office scheme: Planner says revised development, with one storey less, addresses concerns  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/commercial-property/kennedy-wilson-wins-approval-for-st-stephen-s-green-office-scheme-1.4683047

 

• Council planners criticise ‘alarming’ plans for over 1,000 rental homes in Drumcondra – Drumcondra residents are opposing a new planned apartment development over fears of inflation and return to ‘absentee landlords’  https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/dublin-news/dublin-city-council-holy-cross-21620579

 

• An Bord Pleanála rejects appeal from O’Brien-linked company  https://www.echo.ie/an-bord-pleanala-rejects-appeal-from-obrien-linked-company/

 

• Permission sought for construction of new data centres in Profile Park  https://www.echo.ie/permission-sought-for-construction-of-new-data-centres-in-profile-park/

 

• FG TD condemns delay in building Killiney apartments: Work has yet to start on Park Developments’ scheme in the affluent south Dublin suburb which got fast-track planning permission in 2019 https://www.businesspost.ie/houses/fg-td-condemns-delay-in-building-killiney-apartments-cd2f4add

 

• Plans in the pipeline for apartment development in Cork town  https://www.echolive.ie/corknews/arid-40704473.html

 

• Plans lodged for 114 build-to-rent apartments in Cork city  https://www.echolive.ie/corknews/arid-40704998.html

 

• Ursuline Sisters’ second multi-million euro land sale in Cork’s Blackrock: €4m three-acre offers follows €13m sale of 32 acres in 2002  https://www.irishexaminer.com/property/commercial/arid-40704827.html

 

• Integer to Construct New Innovation and Manufacturing Facility in Galway, Ireland  https://finance.yahoo.com/amphtml/news/integer-construct-innovation-manufacturing-facility-060100837.html

 

• Limerick direct provision centre earmarked for student apartments: Mary Immaculate College has confirmed plans to develop the former Westbourne Holiday Hostel into a 68-bed student apartment building  https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/munster/arid-40702859.html

 

• Perks for developers?  2.5-acre Perks’ funfair site in heart of Ardmore village goes up for sale for €1.5m – Scenic West Waterford seaside village site is set to go from fun, fun, fun  to funding for development  https://www.irishexaminer.com/property/commercial/arid-40704881.html

 

• Company to challenge planning refusal for homes in Waterford Gaeltacht despite local objections:Council claimed the scale of the proposed development is in excess of what is required to meet the needs of the indigenous Irish-speaking population in the area https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/munster/arid-40703861.html

 

• Kilkenny discount supermarket gets the green light for expansion  https://www.kilkennypeople.ie/news/callan/667052/kilkenny-discount-supermarket-gets-the-green-light-for-expansion.html

 

• Property: €10m Kildare site sale shows strong market: Senan Hogan reports that demand for property along the N7/M7 remains buoyant https://www.kildarenow.com/news/local-news/666661/property-10m-kildare-site-sale-shows-strong-market.html

 

• Green light for housing development in centre of Offaly town: https://www.offalyexpress.ie/news/home/667877/green-light-for-housing-development-in-centre-of-offaly-town.html

 

• Kilkenny cheese plant controversy: Supreme Court to hear appeal against planning decision: Glanbia Ireland chairman John Murphy said the company remains “totally committed to this project”.  https://www.thejournal.ie/cheese-plant-kilkenny-supreme-court-5557023-Sep2021/

 

• Matter of time before Irish Water is  submerged in another major crisis: Run on a commercial basis but unable to collect charges, the firm which got €1.4bn in public money in 2021 is starting to show the strains of that public/private contradiction  https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/spotlight/arid-40705589.html

 

• Dermot Bannon to lead design team on planned Busaras redevelopment: The station first opened in 1953 and currently services over 17 different routes and 1,131 arrivals/departures every week https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/dublin-news/dermot-bannon-lead-design-team-21655857

 

• Interim examiner appointed to Limerick development company: Top Drawer Developments building 16 social housing units for local authority https://www.irishtimes.com/business/construction/interim-examiner-appointed-to-limerick-development-company-1.4682136

 

• Irish engineering firm Ethos to hire 150 people in Ireland  https://www.siliconrepublic.com/jobs-news/ethos-jobs-ireland-engineering-construction

 

• Iput to cut project emissions by 40% on path to net zero: Property investor has 5.2 million square feet of office and logistics assets, mainly in Dublin  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/energy-and-resources/iput-to-cut-project-emissions-by-40-on-path-to-net-zero-1.4678197

 

• Rebuilding better after the bust: Simon Kelly hails from a property dynasty that went down with Anglo. Now he’s back, and focusing on ESG  https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/rebuilding-better-after-the-bust-wgv0skx5g

 

• Green Building Council calls on industry to halve buildings emissions by 2030  https://www.globalconstructionreview.com/green-building-council-calls-on-industry-to-halve-buildings-emissions-by-2030/

 

• Cork firm completes Australia’s largest wind-solar farm: DP Energy developing three off-shore wind projects in Ireland in Cork, Clare, and Wexford https://www.irishexaminer.com/business/companies/arid-40702832.html

 

• Amarenco buys two French solar farms for €31m: The acquisition has cemented the Cork-based company’s presence in France https://m.independent.ie/business/irish/amarenco-buys-two-french-solar-farms-for-31m-40886240.html

 

• JTC has acquired Ballybunion Capital Limited (Ballybunion), a boutique asset manager based in Ireland. The initial consideration will be settled in cash and JTC equity  https://www.propertyfundsworld.com/2021/09/21/306455/jtc-acquires-boutique-asset-manager-based-ireland

 

 

PROPTECH, MMC & CONSTRUCTION INNOVATION

• Proptech Ireland is updating the database of 2021 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: *PROPTECH INNOVATORS and STARTUPS * 

 

• Ireland ranked 19th out of 132 economies for innovation: Republic still ranks highly but has fallen four places versus last year and seven since 2019 https://www.irishtimes.com/business/economy/state-ranked-19th-out-of-132-economies-for-innovation-1.4679962

 

• Sisk transforms technology base with the aid of Auxilion  https://www.echo.ie/sisk-transforms-technology-base-with-the-aid-of-auxilion/

 

• All construction projects implementing BIM by 2031: ‘I would like to see a more digital and sustainable construction industry in 10 years’ time’ says Chris Collins, Country President for Ireland, Schneider Electric https://www.businesspost.ie/commercial-reports/all-construction-projects-implementing-bim-by-2031-1f50cabf

 

• Trackplan provides software for facilities or maintenance managers to manage and log day-to-day reactive or scheduled maintenance jobs, from fixing boilers to repairing windows.  https://www.limerickleader.ie/news/business/668944/award-winning-start-up-opens-new-offices-in-limerick.html

 

• Watch this stunning recreation of Cork city…  https://www.echolive.ie/corklives/arid-40111124.html

 

• LIMERICK City and County Council has ruled out installing closed-circuit television (CCTV) in two suburban areas for the time being.  https://www.limerickleader.ie/news/home/668030/council-rules-out-cctv-in-areas-of-limerick.html

 

• Bootstrapping in 2021 goes a long way: Can startups eschewing venture capital have it all?  https://techcrunch.com/2021/09/24/bootstrapping-in-2021-goes-a-long-way/

 

• Proptech: Innovative referencing service for pets launches: Natasha Home-Earley, who has a background in property and tech, says her platform enables landlords and letting agents to accept pets  https://thenegotiator.co.uk/proptech-innovative-referencing-service-for-pets-launches/

 

• PropTech Today – how can tech help the smooth running of tenancies? https://www.estateagenttoday.co.uk/breaking-news/2021/9/proptech-today–how-cantechbe-used-to-help-the-smooth-running-of-tenancies?source=newsticker

 

• PropTech firm backed by Zoopla founder launches AML platform  https://www.estateagenttoday.co.uk/breaking-news/2021/9/proptech-firm-backed-by-zoopla-founder-launches-aml-platform?source=newsticker

 

• SoftBank and Demi Lovato back June Homes, a proptech startup emerging from stealth with $50M in funding | TechCrunch https://techcrunch.com/2021/09/22/softbank-and-demi-lovato-back-june-homes-a-proptech-startup-emerging-from-stealth-with-50m-in-funding/

 

• PropTech platform Goodlord opens doors in Scotland   https://www.lettingagenttoday.co.uk/breaking-news/2021/9/goodlord-opens-doors-in-scotland

 

• Why your next company should be a proptech: “I may be preaching to the converted here at PropTechNow, but I would like to make the case in this article that any tech founder today should focus on the property sector before any other” https://www.proptechnow.com.au/2021/09/why-your-next-company-should-be-a-proptech/

 

• Proptech startup snags $180M in debt and equity | PitchBook https://pitchbook.com/newsletter/proptech-startup-snags-180m-in-debt-and-equity

 

• How Proptech Benefits From The Squeeze Between Investors And Institutions – Crunchbase News https://news.crunchbase.com/news/proptech-startups-vc-institutional-investment-blackstone/

 

• PropTech platform Saqara coming to UK – BusinessCloud BusinessCloud https://businesscloud.co.uk/blog/2021/09/21/proptech-platform-saqara-coming-to-uk/

 

• This Proptech Is On The Move: Strata co-founders believe technology is at the center of the most important trends shaping the real estate space  https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/387207

 

• Meet Trevor Stunden, CEO and Co-Founder at First Time Buyer PropTech Platform: Kettel – TechRound https://techround.co.uk/interviews/meet-trevor-stunden-kettel/

 

• Spain-based proptech Housfy nets €12M funding – AIM Group https://aimgroup.com/2021/09/20/spain-based-proptech-housfy-nets-e12m-funding/

 

• Pi Labs secures new investors for Fund III https://www.privateequitywire.co.uk/2021/09/21/306454/pi-labs-secures-new-investors-fund-iii

 

• Energy efficiency tool boosts Camden’s low carbon future  https://www.pbctoday.co.uk/news/energy-news/camden-low-carbon-future/99128/

 

• Five Factors That Still Drive Proptech After A Decade Of Explosive Growth https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesrealestatecouncil/2021/09/20/five-factors-that-still-drive-proptech-after-a-decade-of-explosive-growth/

 

• How to Solve the 5 Big Data Challenges Holding CRE Back: Businesses are looking at how to better tap the potential of big data and PropTech as data is becoming an indispensable aspect of decision making in commercial real estate.  https://www.globest.com/2021/09/20/how-to-solve-the-5-big-data-challenges-holding-cre-back/

 

• How Smart Buildings Can Fall Victim to a Cyber Attack’  https://www.hstoday.us/subject-matter-areas/cybersecurity/an-escalating-threat-how-smart-buildings-can-fall-victim-to-a-cyber-attack/

 

• Sternum, a three-year-old IoT cybersecurity startup based in Tel Aviv, has secured $27 million in Series B funding, led by Spark Capital https://techcrunch.com/2021/09/23/cybersecurity-startup-sternum-raises-27m-to-immunize-iot-devices/

 

• French construction tech platform Saqara raises £7.6M to expand in UK – UKTN (UK Tech News) https://www.uktech.news/news/french-construction-tech-platform-saqara-funding-20210920

 

• JLL Short Stays launches in the UK to compete with major OTAs https://shorttermrentalz.com/news/jll-short-stays-launch-uk/

 

 

RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY NEWS (including PRS)

• The Irish Times view on the housing crisis: The real cost of a broken system: With many strands to the State’s housing crisis, the lack of purchasing power is central https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/editorial/the-irish-times-view-on-the-housing-crisis-the-real-cost-of-a-broken-system-1.4678251?mode=amp

 

• Rent hikes as housing plan backfires and inflation rises: Minister said linking hikes to index would be good for tenants  https://m.independent.ie/business/personal-finance/rent-hikes-as-housing-plan-backfires-and-inflation-rises-40871403.html

 

• Are Central Bank mortgage rules containing home prices or fuelling crisis? Lack of supply and undeveloped rental market key factors in house price growth  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/economy/are-central-bank-mortgage-rules-containing-home-prices-or-fuelling-crisis-1.4682005

 

• Analysis: Is there a way to keep tenants and landlords happy? Change to cap on rent increases and tax cut on rent income may halt exodus of landlords https://www.irishtimes.com/news/politics/analysis-is-there-a-way-to-keep-tenants-and-landlords-happy-1.4681186

 

• New vacant homes tax won’t solve housing crisis – Finance officials: Department casts doubt on tax touted as key part of housing plan  https://m.independent.ie/business/personal-finance/property-mortgages/new-vacant-homes-tax-wont-solve-housing-crisis-finance-officials-40867531.html

 

• Lack of home delivery through repair and leasing scheme is ‘unforgivable’: John Cummins, a Fine Gael senator, says he is ‘very frustrated’ as only 247 formerly vacant or derelict homes are back in use despite a target of 3,500 https://www.businesspost.ie/houses/lack-of-home-delivery-through-repair-and-leasing-scheme-is-unforgivable-a09765b1

 

• Darragh O’Brien: ‘Absolutely not’ a mistake to include Shared Equity Scheme in housing plan – The Central Bank and the ESRI have both said the Shared Equity Scheme could potentially push up house prices https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/politics/arid-40702127.html

 

• House builder pushes for end to loan-to-income mortgage rules: Cairn Homes chief Michael Stanley writes to Central Bank that ‘dynamic approach’ would alleviate crisis https://www.irishtimes.com/business/economy/house-builder-pushes-for-end-to-loan-to-income-mortgage-rules-1.467822

 

• Homes must be revalued by November 1st in property tax shake-up: Revised system will see higher bills for 36% of those liable, as house values have jumped https://www.irishtimes.com/news/ireland/irish-news/homes-must-be-revalued-by-november-1st-in-property-tax-shake-up-1.4683114

 

• Rent: the 21st century’s version of bread prices: The average price paid for a home in Dublin is nine times the average full-time salary  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/economy/rent-the-21st-century-s-version-of-bread-prices-1.468287

 

• Arrears top list of rental rows in 2020, says tenancies board: Investigations and Sanctions Unit fields 800 public inquires in first full year of operation  https://www.irishtimes.com/news/ireland/irish-news/arrears-top-list-of-rental-rows-in-2020-says-tenancies-board-1.4678844

 

• Students sleeping on couches, paying for hotels and deferring college entry as accommodation crisis deepens  https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/students-sleeping-on-couches-paying-for-hotels-and-deferring-college-entry-as-accommodation-crisis-deepens-40879629.html

 

• DCU Statement on Accommodation Issues  https://www.dcu.ie/commsteam/news/2021/sep/dcu-statement-accommodation-issues

 

• Renters ‘paying hundreds for professional cleaners’ to get deposit back: The claim was made in the Dáil during a debate on a Labour party bill. https://www.thejournal.ie/housing-rent-debate-5555414-Sep2021/

 

• Limerick college seeks to buy more student housing  https://www.limerickleader.ie/news/home/667159/limerick-college-seeks-to-buy-more-student-housing.html

 

• Property: Demand for houses never stronger as prices surge  https://www.kildarenow.com/news/local-news/666664/property-demand-for-houses-never-stronger-as-prices-surge.html

 

• Landlords need incentives to bring properties back on the market  https://www.highlandradio.com/2021/09/21/landlords-need-incentives-to-bring-properties-back-on-the-market-peter-casey/

 

• Mortgage approvals down 9% in August but growing year on year: First-time buyer segment shows strong growth as pandemic factors drive activity https://www.irishtimes.com/business/economy/mortgage-approvals-down-9-in-august-but-growing-year-on-year-1.4682183

 

• How a Dublin house sold for €13.25m but stayed under the radar: Lissadell, on Shrewsbury Road, changed hands on May 19th, according to the property price register https://www.irishtimes.com/life-and-style/homes-and-property/how-a-dublin-house-sold-for-13-25m-but-stayed-under-the-radar-1.4680063?mode=amp

 

• The Pinnacle of south Co Dublin: Mount Merrion apartments by Press Up developers from €760,000: Oakmount launches first phase of scheme on the site of the Stella cinema at Deerpark Road https://www.irishtimes.com/life-and-style/homes-and-property/new-to-market/the-pinnacle-of-south-co-dublin-mount-merrion-apartments-by-press-up-developers-from-760-000-1.4678806?mode=amp

 

• Only 13 properties available to rent in Limerick city  https://www.live95fm.ie/news/live95-news/only-13-properties-available-to-rent-in-limerick-city/

 

• Agenda: Ireland needs cheaper homes, not bigger mortgages  https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/agenda-ireland-needs-cheaper-homes-not-bigger-mortgages-wwhrxqj8v

 

• Scrap the tax on derelict rural homes to ease housing crisis, campaigner says https://m.independent.ie/business/personal-finance/property-mortgages/scrap-the-tax-on-derelict-rural-homes-to-ease-housing-crisis-campaigner-says-40888792.html

 

• Luxury Blackrock scheme on secluded road comes to market: Glensavage, built by Bartra Developments, is offering a mix of A-rated houses and apartments https://www.businesspost.ie/residential/luxury-blackrock-scheme-on-secluded-road-comes-to-market-f9d61c6b

 

• Mayo private island with Nick Faldo link sells for more than €1.1m: Sale brings to an end golfer’s efforts to build Ryder Cup-level golf course on the island https://www.irishtimes.com/business/commercial-property/mayo-private-island-with-nick-faldo-link-sells-for-more-than-1-1m-1.4682751

 

• I want to demolish my garage and build a house. Where do I start? Property clinic: A chartered building surveyor will advise on zoning and design  https://www.irishtimes.com/life-and-style/homes-and-property/i-want-to-demolish-my-garage-and-build-a-house-where-do-i-start-1.4676099?mode=amp

 

• Tenor fails to rent home as work in Covid-hit sector deemed precarious: Paul Byrom says landlord ‘simply didn’t want anyone from the entertainment industry’ https://www.irishtimes.com/news/ireland/irish-news/tenor-fails-to-rent-home-as-work-in-covid-hit-sector-deemed-precarious-1.4678227

 

• I’m trying to move to Dublin – the struggle continues as landlords demand huge money for flats you couldn’t swing a cat in  https://m.independent.ie/business/personal-finance/property-mortgages/im-trying-to-move-to-dublin-the-struggle-continues-as-landlords-demand-huge-money-for-flats-you-couldnt-swing-a-cat-in-40866900.html

 

• I’m selling my home. Do I need proof of building compliance for my extension? Property clinic: It is not necessarily essential to obtain an opinion on compliance to sell your property  https://www.irishtimes.com/life-and-style/homes-and-property/i-m-selling-my-home-do-i-need-proof-of-building-compliance-for-my-extension-1.4676126?mode=amp

 

• FOUR CARLOW PROPERTIES IN HUGE ONLINE PROPERTY AUCTION  https://carlow-nationalist.ie/2021/09/21/four-carlow-properties-in-huge-online-property-auction/

 

• Why I’m raffling my property: Anne Marie Sparks explains why she has decided to dispose of her Delgany apartment by lottery, not by sale  https://m.independent.ie/life/home-garden/homes/why-im-raffling-my-property-40882266.html

 

• Insider secrets from the pros on lighting your home to perfection: We get advice from Natasha Rocca Devine of The Interiors NRD and lighting designer and maker Leo Scarff  https://www.irishexaminer.com/property/homeandoutdoors/arid-40705889.html

 

• A self-build in Offaly that has turned into a sustainable dream home: Home builders around Ireland are reducing their carbon footprint by making climate friendly choices, such as choosing heat pumps over traditional heating technologies  https://www.irishtimes.com/sponsored/grant-engineering/a-self-build-in-offaly-that-has-turned-into-a-sustainable-dream-home-1.4680670?mode=amp

 

• Just moved into a house with a wild garden? Here’s how to tackle it: It can be tempting to ruthlessly prune overgrown plants but don’t be too hasty  https://www.irishtimes.com/life-and-style/homes-and-property/interiors/just-moved-into-a-house-with-a-wild-garden-here-s-how-to-tackle-it-1.4676063?mode=amp

 

 

 

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY NEWS

• Owners of vacant commercial properties set to lose rates exemption:Some vacant commercial building owners in major cities get a 50 per cent reduction while others in rural towns and villages get their entire commercial rates bill written off  https://www.businesspost.ie/houses/owners-of-vacant-commercial-properties-set-to-lose-rates-exemption-accee02a

 

• From home-like touches to acoustic pods: How the office is changing – Creating a safe environment for returning workers is driving trends in office makeovers https://www.irishtimes.com/business/work/from-home-like-touches-to-acoustic-pods-how-the-office-is-changing-1.4680786

 

• Dublin pubs: One of the last remaining early houses in Dublin city up for sale: There’s a two-bedroom apartment on the second floor of the pub  https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/dublin-news/iconic-dublin-pub-sale-early-21613983

 

• Overseas brands buy into Irish comeback: Reports of a bloodbath in Ireland’s retail sector seem greatly exaggerated as international retailers including Accessorize, H&M, Carhartt and Zara scout for new locations on our shores  https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/overseas-brands-buy-into-irish-comeback-wpmcczqnb

 

• An Post announces temporary closure of Dalkey post office: The national postal service has been on the lookout to find an alternative contractor and premises in the area https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/dublin-news/post-announces-temporary-closure-dalkey-21623578

 

• Airbnb European headquarters seeking €41.5m: Number 8 Hanover Quay in Dublin’s south docklands fully let to short-term letting giant until 2036 https://www.irishtimes.com/business/commercial-property/airbnb-european-headquarters-seeking-41-5m-1.4679753

 

• Modern office building in Northwood Campus for €10.75m: Northwood House in Santry, Dublin 9 is yielding 7.5 per cent  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/commercial-property/modern-office-building-in-northwood-campus-for-10-75m-1.4677005

 

• Recently refurbished Dublin office on market at €23.5 million  https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/recently-refurbished-dublin-office-on-market-at-e23-5-million-1187703.html

 

• Sale of KBC Bank head office to cash out €70m for owner: Irish base of departing Belgian lender quietly put on block by Sherborough https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/sale-of-kbc-bank-head-office-to-cash-out-70m-for-owner-8bb58908k

 

• Pair of eye-catching Dublin properties come to market from Hora: No 43 Fitzwilliam Square in Dublin 2 and Castle Manor on the Swords Road are guiding at €3.75m and €1.5m respectively https://www.businesspost.ie/commercial/pair-of-eye-catching-dublin-properties-come-to-market-from-hora-36b6beae

 

• Opportunity for investor or owner-occupier in Sandyford for €5.65m: Two modern offices have scope for substantial uplift in rents following re-letting  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/commercial-property/opportunity-for-investor-or-owner-occupier-in-sandyford-for-5-65m-1.4676980

 

• Office specialist plans to invest €200m over three years: Fine Grain has a presence in Limerick, Dublin, Cork, Athlone and Galway  https://www.irishexaminer.com/property/commercial/arid-40704815.html

 

• Engineering boss acquires birthplace of Irish revolutionary Joseph Plunkett: Fund linked to Jim Curley acquires 42 Upper Mount Street in Dublin for just under €2m https://www.irishtimes.com/business/commercial-property/engineering-boss-acquires-birthplace-of-irish-revolutionary-joseph-plunkett-1.4676964

 

• Hibernia Reit acquires Dublin pub Scruffy Murphy’s https://www.irishtimes.com/business/commercial-property/hibernia-reit-acquires-dublin-pub-scruffy-murphy-s-1.4678117

 

• Staff at Limerick DIY store concerned over planning application  https://www.limerickleader.ie/news/home/666448/staff-at-limerick-diy-store-concerned-over-planning-application.html

 

• Sligo shopping centre on the market for €5.7m: Johnston Court in heart of the town is home to Boots, Elverys and H Samuel https://www.irishtimes.com/business/commercial-property/sligo-shopping-centre-on-the-market-for-5-7m-1.4676984

 

• Corrib Oil group acquire two sites in Kildare https://www.kildarenow.com/news/newsletter-kildarenow/667178/corrib-gas-group-acquire-two-sites-in-kildare.html

 

 

INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY NEWS

• UK Housing: Labour to give first-time buyers exclusive access to new properties: Reforms would also cap affordable rents at 30% of average household income in bid to take on Tories over housing https://www.theguardian.com/society/2021/sep/23/labour-to-give-first-time-buyers-exclusive-access-to-new-properties

 

• CN100 2021: £600m of profit wiped out in pandemic year https://www.constructionnews.co.uk/financial/cn100-2021-600m-of-profit-wiped-out-in-pandemic-year-20-09-2021/

 

• Google to buy Manhattan office building for $2.1bn: Big Tech staking bullish position on the future of New York  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/commercial-property/google-to-buy-manhattan-office-building-for-2-1bn-1.4680694

 

• David McWilliams: A property crash in China would rock global system: There are 90 million empty apartments in China after years of a construction boom https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/editorial/david-mcwilliams-a-property-crash-in-china-would-rock-global-system-1.4682688?mode=amp

 

• Ten global projects that demonstrate the possibilities of low-energy architecture  https://www.dezeen.com/2021/09/14/ten-global-projects-low-energy-architecture-jared-green/amp/

 

• The Dezeen guide to plastic in architecture, design and interiors  https://www.dezeen.com/2021/09/22/dezeen-guide-plastic-architecture-design-interiors/

 

 

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/