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: 

 

• The Government launched its Housing for All plan on Thursday and the reaction commentary has been flooding the national, trade and new media – some of this commentary is more helpful than others.. We have collated a post with the Housing for All facts, the intent (as derived from launch speeches) and the reaction of the industry (SCSI, IPAV and RIAI), the business community, property consumers and political opposition. Also, you can read about efforts to tackle NIMBYism (not in my backyard), plans for the taxation of vacant sites and the missed opportunity to incentivise rightsizing…  Read in full: https://propertydistrict.ie/housing-for-all-the-facts-the-intent-and-the-national-response/ 

 

• Government loses ‘10,000 affordable homes’ amid fears of legal backlash: Late exemption from Housing for All plan excludes land bought from 2015 to 2021 and was brought in following what the housing minister described as ‘very strong’ advice https://www.businesspost.ie/houses/government-loses-10000-affordable-homes-amid-fears-of-legal-backlash-29eb9dcf

 

 

• Delivery key to prospects for success of Coalition housing plan: Plan relies on private builders providing 170,000 of 300,000 new homes by 2030  https://www.irishtimes.com/news/politics/delivery-key-to-prospects-for-success-of-coalition-housing-plan-1.4664447?mode=amp

 

• LDA sets out plan to become engine of affordable homes supply: Agency chief says it is on track to deliver 8,000 new dwellings by the end of 2026 https://www.irishtimes.com/business/technology/lda-sets-out-plan-to-become-engine-of-affordable-homes-supply-1.4664511 Also, sites in Dublin, Cork and Limerick included in ‘largest ever transfer of State land’: The Land Development Agency will take ownership of State land capable of delivering 10,000 to 15,000 additional homes. https://www.thejournal.ie/housing-for-all-lda-sites-5539403-Sep2021/ 

 

• In the Business Post today: Darragh O’Brien interview: ‘We’ve negotiated €20bn for housing over a five-year period’ – The Housing Minister is full of enthusiasm for the Housing for All plan and, despite criticism of it, insists it will have an immediate effect: https://www.businesspost.ie/houses/darragh-obrien-interview-weve-negotiated-eur20bn-for-housing-over-a-five-year-period-9c7cf402

 

• Politicians are paralysed by fear of property owners’ revolt: Prices and rents keep rising, yet there is no shortage of land. So is the real issue zoning and nimbyism? https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/news/politicians-are-paralysed-by-fear-of-property-owners-revolt-40819218.html

 

• A bad situation is about to get worse: Ireland has a new tool to tell local authorities how many houses they need. And it will make things much worse… The Housing Need and Demand Assessment tool is a great idea. But its targets should be floors, not ceilings, and reflect the fact that planning permissions don’t instantly convert https://thecurrency.news/articles/58852/ireland-has-a-new-tool-to-tell-local-authorities-how-many-houses-they-need-and-it-is-going-to-make-things-much-worse/

 

• A new national housing bond is something everyone could buy into: Irish people have saved €12bn during the pandemic, so why not give them the opportunity to buy a state housing bond, marketed as a patriotic investment that helps others while helping yourself https://www.businesspost.ie/the-last-post/matt-cooper-a-new-national-housing-bond-is-something-everyone-could-buy-into-aa2be06a

 

• How have property industry salaries weathered the pandemic? Comprehensive survey by Avril Clare Recruitment reveals how some sectors took a battering during the pandemic, and how others rebounded surprisingly strongly  https://www.businesspost.ie/property-insight/how-have-property-industry-salaries-weathered-the-pandemic-0cefbf88

 

• ‘Selling Irelands Most Exclusive Homes’ starts on RTE Two this Monday at 9.30pm and RTE One Wednesday at 10.35pm. https://www.limerickpost.ie/2021/09/03/selling-irelands-most-exclusive-homes-starts-on-rte-two-this-monday-at-9-30pm-and-rte-one-wednesday-at-10-35pm/

 

• Irish workers are most productive in world when measured by GDP: OECD says employees here add $109.6 to value of economy every hour they work https://www.irishtimes.com/business/economy/irish-workers-are-most-productive-in-world-when-measured-by-gdp-1.4660090

 

• And yet: “I’ve lived around the world, but fell in love with Dublin – its people, its culture, its natural beauty, its history, and its sense of community. I want to invest in life here – build businesses and raise a family – but I’m not sure the Government wants me to… https://www.thejournal.ie/readme/housing-crisis-3-5536405-Sep2021/ [*we are failing a generation of entrepreneurs in so many ways other than housing, however, following on from our successful RIPPLE shipping container build in 2016 (https://caroltallon.com/ripple-container-homes-project), I am working on a new live/work shipping container project in Galway right now, email to get involved: carol@caroltallon.com ]

 

• Urban Rigger designers float port housing idea to tackle crisis  https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/urban-rigger-designers-float-port-housing-idea-to-tackle-crisis-fzk8bm0wm

 

• Charity will need to raise €1.2m a year for family facility at National Children’s Hospital  https://m.independent.ie/regionals/dublin/charity-will-need-to-raise-12m-a-year-for-family-facility-at-national-childrens-hospital-40809439.html

 

• The rise and rise of housing activism in Ireland https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2021/0830/1243595-housing-crisis-activism-ireland-raise-the-roof-catu-take-back-the-city-home-sweet-home/

 

• The St Patrick’s Links at Rosapenna: Believe the hype for Ireland’s first new golf course since 2009: The rollercoaster 1st is an immediate contender for best opening hole on the island, he reckons. Now read on…  https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/golf/arid-40369799.html?type=amp

 

• IPAV launches book to mark its 50th anniversary: Institute notes ‘challenge’ of influencing development of sustainable property market  https://www.irishtimes.com/life-and-style/homes-and-property/ipav-launches-book-to-mark-its-50th-anniversary-1.4661924?mode=amp

 

 

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 & Podcast

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

 

• ‘Housing For All’: James Benson, Director with the Irish Home Builders Association, Carol Tallon, CEO of Property District and Mary Conway, senior move manager and age in place: Listen back https://www.newstalk.com/podcasts/highlights-from-the-hard-shoulder/support-for-the-families-locked-out-of-the-market?utm_source=whatsapp&utm_campaign=article&utm_medium=web

 

 

*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

 

• The 20 best places to live in Ireland: What they are like and what they cost  https://www.irishtimes.com/life-and-style/the-20-best-places-to-live-in-ireland-what-they-are-like-and-what-they-cost-1.4660076?mode=amp

 

• How Ireland’s county boundaries define us  https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2021/0831/1243869-ireland-county-boundaries-history-society-rivalry/

 

• West of Ireland tops list of country’s best work-from-home locations https://www.siliconrepublic.com/careers/five-locations-working-from-home-ireland-sligo

 

• We must stop a slow-motion privatisation of public land: We need policies that increase availability of permanently affordable homes  https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/we-must-stop-a-slow-motion-privatisation-of-public-land-1.4662201?mode=amp

 

• Step into former shoe shop on country’s first-ever pedestrianized street, made to measure in 1971 and with high footfall since: Cork’s Princes Street pioneered the way forward half a century before a global pandemic put citizenry on the streets  https://www.irishexaminer.com/property/commercial/arid-40371293.html?type=amp

 

• How architect Herbert Simms transformed Dublin  https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2021/0826/1242953-herbert-simms-dublin-city-housing-architect-profile-ruth-mcmanus/

 

• Dublin build-to-rent scheme will exacerbate housing crisis, SF leader says: Proposed €610 million Drumcondra scheme opposed by majority of submissions https://www.irishtimes.com/business/construction/dublin-build-to-rent-scheme-will-exacerbate-housing-crisis-sf-leader-says-1.4660248

 

• Sandymount residents call for traffic calming on Strand Road: Traffic volumes on coast road damaging environment, health and safety https://www.irishtimes.com/news/environment/sandymount-residents-call-for-traffic-calming-on-strand-road-1.4659211?mode=amp

 

• Neighbours express ‘serious concerns’ over aspects of Conrad’s expansion plan: Hotel at Stephen’s Green seeks to add 88 new rooms and change facade  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/retail-and-services/neighbours-express-serious-concerns-over-aspects-of-conrad-s-expansion-plan-1.4661307?mode=amp

 

• Malahide and Cabra among the top 20 best places to live in Ireland  https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/dublin-news/malahide-cabra-among-top-20-21480715

 

• Protestors highlight ‘scandal’ of Cork city’s 400 vacant homes: Across Cork city, more than 400 public housing units are vacant while 413 people are homeless in the city.  https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/munster/arid-40369748.html

 

• Eight Cork city parklets to be officially launched this week  https://www.echolive.ie/corknews/arid-40369841.html

 

• Pre-application consultation on proposed Kerry/Cork windfarm | “Pre-application consultations also allow An Bord Pleanála to advise an applicant if there are specific issues with the proposal” . https://www.radiokerry.ie/news/pre-application-consultation-on-proposed-kerry-cork-windfarm-249552

 

• Galway West TD Mairéad Farrell has called on the Government to tackle vacant sites across the country, saying they have long plagued Galway City and many other towns and villages: https://www.galwaydaily.com/news/galway-td-calls-on-government-to-tackle-vacant-sites/

 

• Mixed trader response to Limerick city favouring pedestrians: If area closed to traffic ‘it would not be a good idea’ and no longer enough street parking  https://www.irishtimes.com/news/environment/mixed-trader-response-to-limerick-city-favouring-pedestrians-1.4658030?mode=amp

 

• Our Rural Future: Minister Humphreys announces over €4.2 million in funding for schools, sports clubs, playgrounds and community organisations  https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/d0db1-our-rural-future-minister-humphreys-announces-over-42-million-in-funding-for-schools-sports-clubs-playgrounds-and-community-organisations/

 

• Redeveloped Fitzwilliam Square in Wicklow Town officially opened  https://wicklownews.net/2021/08/redeveloped-fitzwilliam-square-in-wicklow-town-officially-opened/

 

• MCC remind land/property owners of their legal obligation to maintain hedges onto public roads  https://www.midwestradio.ie/index.php/news/50503-mcc-remind-land-property-owners-of-their-legal-obligation-to-maintain-hedges-onto-public-roads

 

• Donegal location named one of top towns to work from home  https://www.donegaldaily.com/2021/09/01/donegal-location-named-one-of-top-towns-to-work-from-home/amp/

 

• Planning decision in November for Ballinskelligs retreat  https://m.independent.ie/regionals/kerryman/news/planning-decision-in-november-for-ballinskelligs-retreat-40809389.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 

 

 

• James Benson: Construction sector ready to build on government’s housing promises: The Housing for All plan is ambitious and inspiring, but certain planning hurdles need to be addressed before builders can fully embrace it  https://www.businesspost.ie/houses/james-benson-construction-sector-ready-to-build-on-governments-housing-promises-8811bb56 

 

• “There are a number of concrete initiatives in the strategy to improve supply,” said Stephen Garvey, chief executive of Glenveagh, adding that changes to the planning system have the potential to be “very effective”. https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/foundations-for-funding-tnfmbhgjv

 

• Irish construction materials and labour costs ‘climb amid global shortages’: “In particular, reinforcing bars, structural steel, aluminium curtain walling-panelling and copper have all seen substantial increases, ranging from 34.3% for reinforcing bars to 7.5% for copper,” according to the report.   https://www.irishexaminer.com/business/economy/arid-40369694.html

 

• Solving the housing crisis ‘will require 27,500 more workers in construction’  https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40372328.html?type=amp

 

• Speaking on RTÉ’s Morning Ireland, chief executive of the Irish Plant Contractors Association Brian Coogan said the Irish construction industry does not have enough workers to deliver the plan.  https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/construction-chief-warns-staff-shortages-could-stifle-governments-housing-for-all-plan-40814688.html

 

• State agency to buy out developers stuck for cash to free up sites for new housing  https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/state-agency-to-buy-out-developers-stuck-for-cash-to-free-up-sites-for-new-housing-40816955.html

 

• Stairways from heaven –Irish craftsmen hitting new heights as luxury home owners splash the cash on spectacular staircases  https://m.independent.ie/life/home-garden/homes/stairways-from-heaven-irish-craftsmen-hitting-new-heights-as-luxury-home-owners-splash-the-cash-on-spectacular-staircases-40813909.html

 

• Construction sector roars back with strong PLC performances but inflation lurks in the long grass  https://www.independent.ie/business/irish/construction-sector-roars-back-with-strong-plc-performances-but-inflation-lurks-in-the-long-grass-40795539.html

 

• Construction revival may mean up to 27,000 homes built next year: Fresh data highlight increased supply and a shift away from capital city to other regions  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/economy/construction-revival-may-mean-up-to-27-000-homes-built-next-year-1.4662370?mode=am

 

• Home building was back to 2019 levels in first half of year, latest report finds  https://www.businesspost.ie/houses/home-building-was-back-to-2019-levels-in-first-half-of-year-latest-report-finds-e31642bf

 

• More housing needed to double employment in Sandyford Business District – report: SBD could be affected by global tax changes and Cherrywood competition, study finds https://www.irishtimes.com/business/economy/more-housing-needed-to-double-employment-in-sandyford-business-district-report-1.4661072

 

• Plan for 10,000 new homes on Inchicore rail works site: New ‘urban village’ on Iarnród Éireann depot and other lands would be serviced by planned underground Dart https://www.businesspost.ie/houses/plan-for-10000-new-homes-on-inchicore-rail-works-site-d283a7b6

 

• Dublin 8 site approved for co-living scheme guiding at €25m: Application for 378-bed development on Cork Street was submitted prior to ban https://www.irishtimes.com/business/commercial-property/dublin-8-site-approved-for-co-living-scheme-guiding-at-25m-1.4660160

 

• Urbeo pays €73m for 211 Dublin rental apartments: Investment group in forward purchase deal for units at Windmill scheme in Clonsilla https://www.irishtimes.com/business/commercial-property/urbeo-pays-73m-for-211-dublin-rental-apartments-1.4661013

 

• Prime south Dublin residential site with full planning seeks €4.5m: Lands opposite Foxrock church for sale with permission for scheme of 45 apartments  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/commercial-property/prime-south-dublin-residential-site-with-full-planning-seeks-4-5m-1.4659966

 

• Green light given to fast-track plans for 260 apartments in new North Dublin town: An Bord Pleanala has given the green light to ‘fast-track’ plans for 260 apartments at Belmayne in north Dublin  https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/property/green-light-given-fast-track-21466142

 

• LIVE Nation, the global entertainment giant that will run the long awaited €80m Cork Event Centre, are on the verge of appointing a design team to the project.  https://www.irishexaminer.com/property/developmentconstruction/arid-40371509.html?type=amp

 

• City Council approves large scale commercial and residential development  https://www.galwaydaily.com/news/city-council-approves-large-scale-commercial-and-residential-development/

 

• Work gets underway on preliminary demolition works at former Corrib Great Southern Hotel  https://galwaybayfm.ie/galway-bay-fm-news-desk/work-gets-underway-on-preliminary-demolition-works-at-former-corrib-great-southern-hotel/

 

• Permission granted for new medical devices facility in Parkmore: https://galwaybayfm.ie/galway-bay-fm-news-desk/permission-granted-for-new-medical-devices-facility-in-parkmore/

 

• New housing development planned for site adjacent to busy Limerick road  https://www.limerickleader.ie/news/home/660154/new-housing-development-planned-for-site-adjacent-to-busy-limerick-road.html

 

• Henry J Lyons has been awarded the contract for design of key elements within the Opera Site, including the 14-storey landmark building set to create a new skyline for the city centre.  https://irishbuildingmagazine.ie/2021/09/01/limerick-twenty-thirty-appoints-henry-j-lyons-to-landmark-opera-site-projects/

 

• Penneys in bid to develop €75m Kildare distribution centre: Retailer seeks permission for 46,452sq m logistics hub on 15-hectare site in Newbridge  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/commercial-property/penneys-in-bid-to-develop-75m-kildare-distribution-centre-1.4661119?mode=amp

 

• Contracts signed for construction of 18 new social houses in Offaly town  https://www.offalyexpress.ie/news/home/661006/contracts-signed-for-construction-of-18-new-social-houses-in-offaly-town.html

 

• Forklift-maker Hiab to spend €50m on new Dundalk factory: Maker of Moffett forklifts will create 100 manufacturing jobs https://www.irishtimes.com/business/manufacturing/forklift-maker-hiab-to-spend-50m-on-new-dundalk-factory-1.4662069?mode=amp

 

• Trends to watch in Irish data centres, colocation and sustainability with Tom Gorman, Interxion  https://irishtechnews.ie/trends-irish-data-centres-tom-gorman-interxion/

 

• Defects: The problems of developer-led construction in Ireland- Book review: Eoin Ó Broin provides a clear-sighted look at the legacy of the Celtic Tiger  https://www.irishtimes.com/culture/books/defects-the-problems-of-developer-led-construction-in-ireland-1.4654957 Also, the author’s criticism of Housing for All: Disingenuous detail makes a mockery of the Housing for All plan: The government strategy will not live up to its name but instead it will simply maintain the status quo https://www.businesspost.ie/houses/eoin-o-broin-disingenuous-detail-makes-a-mockery-of-the-housing-for-all-plan-7787a738

 

• Masters of survival: The inside story of how Ireland’s biggest construction firm weathered Covid-19. Construction is a tough industry, which makes the Sisk family’s staying power all the more impressive. They have done this by minimising risk in every way possible — and by using their bulk to protect their cash flows  https://thecurrency.news/articles/58866/masters-of-survival-the-inside-story-of-how-irelands-biggest-construction-firm-weathered-covid-19/

 

• Oaktree nears full exit from Glenveagh after share spike: US private equity giant has raised estimated €110m selling Glenveagh shares since 2017 https://www.irishtimes.com/business/construction/oaktree-nears-full-exit-from-glenveagh-after-share-spike-1.4662388?mode=amp

 

• Hibernia REIT plc has announced that it has become one of the first property companies in Ireland to achieve the WELL Health-Safety Rating for Facility Operations and Management in its owned and managed office buildings https://irishbuildingmagazine.ie/2021/09/01/hibernia-awarded-well-health-safety-ratings-for-its-buildings/

 

• Laing O’Rourke plans 2024 listing on back of UK infrastructure boom: Construction group targets flotation after it finds successor to founder Ray O’Rourke  https://www-irishtimes-com.cdn.ampproject.org/c/s/www.irishtimes.com/business/construction/laing-o-rourke-plans-2024-listing-on-back-of-uk-infrastructure-boom-1.4659753?mode=amp

 

 

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 * 

 

• “…focus by the Construction Sector Group and the Construction Technology Centre on the residential construction. This will aim to drive innovation and productivity and to reduce residential construction costs” in Housing for All https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/e34f8-supporting-the-four-pathways-enabling-a-sustainable-housing-system/

 

• Technology Ireland awards opens for submissions: Previous winners of the overall award include Fenergo, LearnUpon and Keywords https://www.irishtimes.com/business/technology/technology-ireland-awards-opens-for-submissions-1.4662997

 

• Be choosy about who your smart tech allows into your home: Video doorbells may help you feel safer but should also come with a warning  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/technology/be-choosy-about-who-your-smart-tech-allows-into-your-home-1.4662278?mode=amp

 

• Virtual worlds: ‘It needs to be about more than cryptocurrency’: While most of us have been living 2D lives, others are embracing the metaverse  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/innovation/virtual-worlds-it-needs-to-be-about-more-than-cryptocurrency-1.4660958?mode=amp

 

• JLL Betting $100 Million on Global Growth of Proptech  https://urbanland.uli.org/economy-markets-trends/jll-betting-100-million-on-global-growth-of-proptech/

 

• There is still (just about) time to modernise rather than die  https://www.building.co.uk/comment/there-is-still-just-about-time-to-modernise-rather-than-die/5113468.article

 

• Two Years In — Autodesk’s Assistance to Notre-Dame in Paris: #BIM technologies are giving the most famous cathedral in the French capital a fighting chance to return to visitors in time for the 2024 Olympic Games. https://architosh.com/2021/08/two-years-in-autodesks-assistance-to-notre-dame-in-paris/

 

• Construction sites to depend more on monitored tech for security: As the construction sector finds it feet again, and the costs of materials soar, once again building sites become prime targets for organised criminal gangs  https://www.journalism.co.uk/press-releases/construction-sites-to-depend-more-on-monitored-tech-for-security/s66/a853937/

 

• Construction Technology Newcomer Rugged Robotics Completes First Full-Scale Pilot on Consigli Site  https://bostonrealestatetimes.com/construction-technology-newcomer-rugged-robotics-completes-first-full-scale-pilot-on-consigli-site/

 

• Excavator Automation Reaches Next Level: Excavator automation technology reduces demands on operator and simplifies achieving desired results. https://www.forconstructionpros.com/equipment/earthmoving/excavators/article/21615147/excavator-automation-reaches-next-level

 

• Real estate is a ‘people business’, but in the digital age, it’s also an online marketplace. One proptech company is giving listing agents a serious advantage over their competition… https://www.inman.com/2021/08/30/new-home-selling-marketplace-gives-listing-agents-advantage-in-2021-and-beyond/amp/

 

• The Hickman in London has become the first building in the world to achieve a Platinum rating from SmartScore, the certification scheme for smart buildings  https://www.pbctoday.co.uk/news/bim-news/the-hickman-digital-twin/98474/

 

• Atticus is the CEO of PadSplit, an affordable, shared housing model that creates financial independence for workers.  https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesrealestatecouncil/2021/08/30/proptechs-next-frontier-shared-housing/amp/

 

• Germany PropTech Market was valued at US$ 206.30 million in 2020 and is estimated to reach US$ 444.39 million With a CAGR of 10.4% Forecast 2028  https://www.unlvrebelyell.com/germany-proptech-market-was-valued-at-us-206-30-million-in-2020-and-is-estimated-to-reach-us-444-39-million-with-a-cagr-of-10-4-forecast-2028/

 

• Urbanbase, a Seoul-based company that develops a 3D spatial data platform for interior planning and design, announced today it has raised $11.1 million (13 billion won) in a Series B+ round as it scales up  https://techcrunch.com/2021/08/29/korean-3d-spatial-data-tool-startup-urbanbase-closes-11-1m-series-b-round/amp/

 

• Proptech Startup ‘Sugar’ Raises $2.5M To Turn Apartment Buildings Into Interactive Communities https://www.blackenterprise.com/proptech-startup-sugar-raises-2-5m-to-turn-apartment-buildings-into-interactive-communities/amp/

 

• Flat.mx raises $20M from VCs, proptech unicorn founders to fix Mexico’s ‘broken’ real estate market  https://techcrunch.com/2021/09/01/flat-mx-raises-20m-from-vcs-proptech-unicorn-founders-to-fix-mexicos-broken-real-estate-market/

 

• Proptech B2B marketplace Spaceworx, the first of its kind in Singapore was launched in late August, offering a pre-integrated platform for smart solution sourcing and lifecycle management https://techwireasia.com/amp/2021/09/spaceworx-launches-singapores-first-proptech-marketplace/

 

 

RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY NEWS (including PRS)

• Housing should be affordable, secure and appropriate. It’s a right: Cost-rental and social housing strategies are the way to kill dependence on private sector https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/housing-should-be-affordable-secure-and-appropriate-it-s-a-right-1.4659228

 

• Church asked to identify property that could be used for housing: Minister’s letter sought update on lands and vacant buildings for his housing crisis plan https://www.irishtimes.com/news/politics/church-asked-to-identify-property-that-could-be-used-for-housing-1.4659371?mode=amp

 

• Also, Value of church-owned lands and property in Ireland estimated at billions: Net assets of one religious congregation found to be more than €1 billion in 2009  https://www.irishtimes.com/news/social-affairs/religion-and-beliefs/value-of-church-owned-lands-and-property-in-ireland-estimated-at-billions-1.4660303?mode=amp

 

• €1.5bn invested in Dublin private rented sector in first half of 2021: Block sale of apartments accounted for 55% of total spend in the period  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/commercial-property/1-5bn-invested-in-dublin-private-rented-sector-in-first-half-of-2021-1.4661047

 

• Scheme of 211 quality apartments sold for €73m; Windmill in Clonsilla, Dublin 15, is under construction and due for completion by the end of 2022  https://www.businesspost.ie/commercial/scheme-of-211-quality-apartments-sold-for-eur73m-b51e80a0

 

• HINES strongly refute ‘inaccuracies’ re Holy Cross scheme  https://dublingazette.com/news/hines-build-rent-56423/

 

• Eagle Street Capital Partners sets its sights on homes for workers: New real estate investment firm will prioritise white-collar workers with plans for a €3bn portfolio in Dublin  https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/eagle-street-capital-partners-sets-its-sights-on-homes-for-workers-jg0bdgp3v

 

• Report shows renewed investor focus on green assets: Hooke & MacDonald’s mid-year review also showed over half of residential spend in Dublin was on the private rented sector https://www.businesspost.ie/commercial/report-shows-renewed-investor-focus-on-green-assets-361f84a9

 

• Time for senior politicians to confront vacant property crisis in rural areas  https://www.radiokerry.ie/amp/news/time-for-senior-politicians-to-confront-vacant-property-crisis-in-rural-areas-248934

 

• Property tax on vacant homes to rise as much as five-fold: Move by the government could effectively hit institutional funds that are sitting on valuable empty apartments with a penalty of between €5,000 and €7,000 per unit  https://www.businesspost.ie/houses/property-tax-on-vacant-homes-to-rise-as-much-as-five-fold-12e64985

 

• Ireland’s empty towns: Even Tipp’s flourishing towns are blighted by vacant properties  https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/spotlight/arid-40373279.html?type=amp

 

• David McWilliams: Housebuyers should step away from the market: Housing For All could be seminal moment for Government where people finally come first https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/david-mcwilliams-housebuyers-should-step-away-from-the-market-1.4664085?mode=amp

 

• An Post in talks with non-bank start-up MoCo to offer mortgages: The digital-focused company is led by a number of financial industry executives https://www-irishtimes-com.cdn.ampproject.org/c/s/www.irishtimes.com/business/financial-services/an-post-in-talks-with-non-bank-start-up-moco-to-offer-mortgages-1.4664431?mode=amp

 

• Why now is the time to upgrade to a greener home https://extra.ie/2021/08/29/property/now-time-upgrade-greener-home/amp

 

• A new home above an old shop: How do you make it work? Turning the floors above businesses into housing is tricky. Here’s how it works in practice  https://www.irishtimes.com/life-and-style/homes-and-property/a-new-home-above-an-old-shop-how-do-you-make-it-work-1.4643985?mode=amp

 

• Homeowners in Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown are to get maximum 15pc cut in their local property tax: Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown county councillors voted 24-16 for the full allowable cut to the LPT https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/homeowners-in-dun-laoghaire-rathdown-are-to-get-maximum-15pc-cut-in-their-local-property-tax-40803105.html

 

• Council issues 45 warning letters to homeowners using properties for short-term letting https://www.radiokerry.ie/news/council-issues-45-warning-letters-to-homeowners-using-properties-for-short-term-letting-249210

 

• Life on the level at humble bungalow’s second coming https://m.independent.ie/opinion/comment/life-on-the-level-at-humble-bungalows-second-coming-40800477.html

 

• ‘Out of control’ Dublin rents will continue to rise with ‘nothing to burst the bubble’, warns expert: House prices in the capital have been skyrocketing since the pandemic took hold with many pointing to increased savings and reduced supply as the reason for it  https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/dublin-news/out-control-dublin-rents-continue-21444469

 

• There is a better way to levy local property tax: Current local property tax arrangements raise many issues to do with tax equity https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/there-is-a-better-way-to-levy-local-property-tax-1.4661334?mode=amp

 

• Pensions Q&A: Is it wise to invest in property through my pension?  https://m.independent.ie/business/personal-finance/pensions-q-and-a-is-it-wise-to-invest-in-property-through-my-pension-40816580.html

 

• Brianna Parkins: Living in Dublin is like being in an abusive relationship: I’m stuck renting. The next voting divide may be between those who own houses and those who don’t  https://www.irishtimes.com/life-and-style/people/brianna-parkins-living-in-dublin-is-like-being-in-an-abusive-relationship-1.4660079?mode=amp

 

• Our south-facing sunroom is damp and mouldy. What can we do? Property Clinic: Proper ventilation is crucial when it comes to tackling condensation  https://www.irishtimes.com/life-and-style/homes-and-property/our-south-facing-sunroom-is-damp-and-mouldy-what-can-we-do-1.4656870?mode=amp

 

• Wexford property company is struck off over improper conduct with client’s funds: Michael A O’Leary & Associates Limited and Sinead O’Leary have had their licences revoked, are prohibited from reapplying and have been directed to pay nearly €200,000  https://m.independent.ie/regionals/wexford/news/wexford-property-company-is-struck-off-over-improper-conduct-with-clients-funds-40801326.html

 

• Can A US Citizen Own Property In Ireland? Let’s Find Out More…  https://www.mondaq.com/ireland/work-visas/1107538/can-a-us-citizen-own-property-in-ireland-let39s-find-out-more

 

• Home office design tips: 11 rules interiors experts follow for beautiful spaces: We asked the experts in home office design for their top advice on creating a space that works, practically and aesthetically https://www.homesandgardens.com/advice/home-office-design-tips

 

 

 

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY NEWS

• Commercial property specialists CBRE Ireland today released their September bimonthly report, commenting on trends and transactions in all sectors of Ireland’s commercial property market as the Autumn selling season officially commences: https://www.irishrealestate.news/time-to-draw-a-line-in-the-sand-as-the-new-property-season-commences/ 

 

• The great retail revival: activity rises as the fightback gathers pace – With both Irish and international firms snapping up vacant spaces around the country, things are looking brighter for a sector long ravaged by Covid-19 restrictions  https://www.businesspost.ie/commercial/the-great-retail-revival-activity-rises-as-the-fightback-gathers-pace-960ce8d3

 

• Retail emerges transformed from Covid-19 chrysalis: The pandemic merely expedited many changes which were already in train in the sector, and those businesses which have adapted accordingly can look forward to a brighter future  https://www.businesspost.ie/commercial/kenneth-rouse-retail-emerges-transformed-from-covid-19-chrysalis-a8df8c99

 

• Is a two-tier market in store for Dublin offices? Flights to quality have been witnessed in the past, but the repercussions of the pandemic have sped up the evolution of the office by a few years  https://www.businesspost.ie/commercial/alan-moran-is-a-two-tier-market-in-store-for-dublin-offices-56bd92ee

 

• Heavyweight deals dominate demand for prime space in the capital: Analysis by JLL finds that the Dublin industrial market rose by nearly 50 per cent in the second quarter https://www.businesspost.ie/commercial/heavyweight-deals-dominate-demand-for-prime-space-in-the-capital-496a7bb1

 

• Palm Capital closing in on €200m purchase of Core Industrial portfolio: UK-headquartered private equity giant set to acquire assets across greater Dublin area  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/commercial-property/palm-capital-closing-in-on-200m-purchase-of-core-industrial-portfolio-1.4661140?mode=amp

 

• Beauparc Utilities founder in €74m deal for Royal Hibernian Way: Eamon Waters acquires Dawson Street scheme anchored by Davy Stockbrokers HQ  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/commercial-property/beauparc-utilities-founder-in-74m-deal-for-royal-hibernian-way-1.4664250

 

• Well-known Cork city hardware and animal feed store could be turned into exciting new bar: There’s a lot of change currently being earmarked for the area  https://www.corkbeo.ie/news/local-news/well-known-cork-city-hardware-21465963

 

• Permission granted for expansion of Aldi store at Galway Retail Park  https://galwaybayfm.ie/galway-bay-fm-news-desk/permission-granted-for-expansion-of-aldi-store-at-galway-retail-park/

 

• Carlow’s iconic Braun site sold https://carlow-nationalist.ie/2021/08/31/carlows-iconic-braun-site-sold/

 

• Irish manufacturing boom continues despite global supply disruption: Factories continued to hire in August  https://www.irishexaminer.com/business/economy/arid-40370540.html

 

• Google seeks tenants for new urban quarter at Bolands Mills: Redeveloped 19th century mill to host shops, restaurants, market hall and cultural space https://www.irishtimes.com/business/commercial-property/google-seeks-tenants-for-new-urban-quarter-at-bolands-mills-1.4659983?mode=amp

 

• Amazon expands Rathcoole warehouse after ‘exceptionally busy’ Covid period: E-commerce giant says increased demand and new social distancing requirements mean additional floorspace at its Dublin base is needed to keep staff safe  https://www.businesspost.ie/companies/amazon-expands-rathcoole-warehouse-after-exceptionally-busy-covid-period-cfe55d80

 

• Plans to reopen long-shuttered Monasterevin pub as Boland’s is sold https://www.kildarenow.com/news/local-news/660364/plans-to-reopen-long-shuttered-monasterevin-pub-as-boland-s-is-sold.html 

 

• Market Bar landlord sues pub operators in leasehold disputes: Investor Mark Conan is also seeking summary judgment against the operators of Idlewild and the Chelsea Drug Store in Dublin city centre https://www.businesspost.ie/legal/market-bar-landlord-sues-pub-operators-in-leasehold-disputes-0c88a24b

 

• Four Irish Restaurant Properties Hit The Market  https://www.hospitalityireland.com/amp/restaurant/four-irish-restaurant-properties-hit-the-market-145094

 

• Dalata will be among those adding to the Dublin hotel room total. In 2022 it will be opening two new hotels, the 204-room Samuel Hotel in the Docklands and the 140-room Maldron on Merrion Road, with the 200-bedroom Croke Park Maldron due in 2024 https://m.independent.ie/business/irish/dalata-did-the-housework-during-lockdown-and-now-awaits-a-post-pandemic-bounce-40816554.html

 

• ‘Unapologetically Catholic’ parent-run private school is seeking move to Dominican Centre on Pope’s Quay  https://www.irishexaminer.com/property/planning/arid-40371503.html?type=amp

 

• ‘Abandonment of Tralee Courthouse is unacceptable,’ says Anluan Dunne  https://m.independent.ie/regionals/kerryman/abandonment-of-tralee-courthouse-is-unacceptable-says-anluan-dunne-40811214.html

 

• Balmoral’s property values rise as loans dispute continues: McCann-led group in court battle with Everyday Finance over €60m of loans https://www.irishtimes.com/business/commercial-property/balmoral-s-property-values-rise-as-loans-dispute-continues-1.4660377

 

• Google’s office of the future is already here: In its search for a workplace that will have staff rushing to return, the tech giant is trying everything from robot walls to white-noise seats and camping kit  https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/googles-office-of-the-future-is-already-here-xw9k57gjt

 

 

INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY NEWS

• How to Make the Building Trades Work for Women: From winning maternity leave to organizing against sexual harassment, union tradeswoman are pushing for change. https://inthesetimes.com/article/building-trades-women-unions-maternity-leave-culture-shift

 

• UK house prices rise by ‘surprising’ 2.1% after fall in July: House prices in August were 11% higher than a year ago, figures from Nationwide show https://www.irishtimes.com/business/economy/uk-house-prices-rise-by-surprising-2-1-after-fall-in-july-1.4661850?mode=amp

 

• Bouygues CEO eyes ‘huge market opportunity’ in repurposing existing buildings https://www.constructionnews.co.uk/contractors/bouygues/bouygues-ceo-eyes-huge-market-opportunity-in-repurposing-existing-buildings-31-08-2021/

 

• As Ireland launches #HousingforAll, the Biden-⁠Harris Administration Announces Immediate Steps to Increase Affordable Housing Supply – note the emphasis on “manufactured” (#offsite & #MMC) housing https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2021/09/01/fact-sheet-biden-harris-administration-announces-immediate-steps-to-increase-affordable-housing-supply/

 

• 10 Design reveals masterplan for $1bn technology and sports neighbourhood in North Carolina https://www.globalconstructionreview.com/10-design-reveals-masterplan-for-1bn-technology-and-sports-neighbourhood-in-north-carolina/

 

• Don’t Mind the Gap in Intergenerational Housing: Several new developments make a point of mixing age groups, because who wants to enter the golden years surrounded by only old people?  https://www.nytimes.com/2021/09/02/style/housing-elderly-intergenerational-living.amp.html

 

 

 

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/