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 District has teamed up with Hear Me Roar Media and award-winning TikTok agency Nonsensical to deliver groundbreaking campaigns for Ireland-based construction and real estate companies. Contact amey@propertydistrict.ie

• Why Ireland Is So Rich: How Ireland Become The Fifth RICHEST In The World  https://medium.datadriveninvestor.com/why-ireland-is-so-rich-8935fbb47d34?gi=552604352ecd

• Opinion: first housing, then energy, is food the next crisis? Food is still generally affordable and widely available, despite recent food inflation. But that doesn’t mean it always will be. https://www.farmersjournal.ie/opinion-first-housing-then-energy-is-food-the-next-crisis-718409

• ‘The quality of life here is eroding’ – Are we facing a new generation emigration? An emigration nation once again.  https://www.newstalk.com/news/young-people-emigrating-irish-quality-of-life-eroding-spunout-1377703

• Budget 2023: What you can expect — from housing to taxes: With inflation continuing to run riot, it’s important to note the ‘real’ impact of any changes  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/economy/2022/08/30/budget-2023-what-you-can-expect-from-housing-to-taxes/

• Reason for dramatic fall in taxes paid by Irefs ‘yet to be identified’- A review by the Revenue Commissioners into the sharp decline in taxes paid by Irish real estate funds will not be completed until late 2023  https://www.businesspost.ie/news/reason-for-dramatic-fall-in-taxes-paid-by-irefs-yet-to-be-identified/

• Beware the flight of the ‘accidental’ landlord under a Sinn Féin government: If in power, Sinn Féin plans to introduce German-style protection for tenants, which may lead to more houses to buy, but will mean fewer properties to rent https://www.businesspost.ie/analysis-opinion/john-walsh-beware-the-flight-of-the-accidental-landlord-under-a-sinn-fein-government/

• Urgent warning to students as accommodation scams costing renters €1,300 – This time of the year shows a spike in accommodation fraud as students start college  https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/dublin-news/urgent-warning-students-accommodation-scams-24893954?utm_source=newsshowcase&utm_medium=discover&utm_campaign=CCwqGAgwKhAIACoHCAowh6D9CjCeyvQCMNW_azCU5Xg&utm_content=bullets

• Housing for All – a multi-annual, multi-billion euro plan for Ireland – one year on  https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/0788f-housing-for-all-a-multi-annual-multi-billion-euro-plan-for-ireland-one-year-on/

• Government accused of missing 14 housing targets in first 12 months of Housing for All plan: Labour party says the targets have not been met in the first year of the €4bn-per-year plan https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/government-accused-of-missing-14-housing-targets-in-first-12-months-of-housing-for-all-plan-41945956.html

• Stephen Donnelly admits failing to register Dublin rental property on time: Minister registered property days after it emerged Fianna Fáil TD Robert Troy had failed to do so with a tenancy in Westmeath  https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2022/08/31/stephen-donnelly-admits-failing-to-register-dublin-rental-property-on-time/

• Sipo can’t say whether public reps should declare sale of property without investigating: Issue arose over former junior minister Robert Troy’s failure to declare sale of two properties he owned to two separate local authorities  https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/politics/arid-40952780.html

• Property-owning politicians should prepare for a winter of discontent- The Robert Troy controversy was just the start: the next few months will be all about the denizens of the Oireachtas and their property market interests  https://www.businesspost.ie/analysis-opinion/elaine-byrne-property-owning-politicians-should-prepare-for-a-winter-of-discontent/

• Northern Ireland: Alliance and SDLP MLAs breach laws on registering as landlords- Offenders could now face fines of up to £2,500  https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/news/revealed-alliance-and-sdlp-mlas-breach-laws-on-registering-as-landlords-41959846.html

• DPP asks for publication of An Bord Pleanála report to be delayed until after Garda probe  https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40951727.html

• MTU can’t easily borrow to build accommodation for students  https://www.echolive.ie/corknews/arid-40949564.html

• Students plan walkout from lectures to highlight accommodation crisis  https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/education/students-plan-walkout-from-lectures-to-highlight-accommodation-crisis-41944200.html

• University challenge: Trinity’s €400m revamp at risk as projects hit by delays, cuts and inflation: Board documents show Ireland’s oldest university is pursuing Chinese investment and hiking international student fees, as spiralling costs pose major challenges to its planned modernisation of the campus  https://www.businesspost.ie/news-focus/university-challenge-trinitys-e400m-revamp-at-risk-as-projects-hit-by-delays-cuts-and-inflation/

• Religious orders involved in redress sold properties totalling €90 million since 2016: Investigation by Noteworthy finds these congregations paid €27m to the State in redress during this time.  https://www.thejournal.ie/holy-land-5847757-Aug2022/?amp=1

• Housing fast-track scheme a flop in Mayo and elsewhere  https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2022/08/29/housing-fast-track-scheme-a-flop-in-mayo-and-elsewhere/

• Should more employers be offering accommodation for workers? Fast-food chain Supermacs is offering workers ‘accommodation support’ https://www.newstalk.com/news/should-more-employers-be-offering-accommodation-for-workers-1377032

• TikTok sounded investment warning to government over data centre policy: The tech giant told the government that its expansion in Ireland is “reliant” on data centres https://www.businesspost.ie/news/tiktok-sounded-investment-warning-to-government-over-data-centre-policy/

• Why the next boss of the IDA could make or break our economic cohesion https://m.independent.ie/business/irish/why-the-next-boss-of-the-ida-could-make-or-break-our-economic-cohesion-41943302.html

• Open House Dublin – the feast of architecture returns  https://www.rte.ie/culture/2022/0823/1318334-open-house-dublin-the-feast-of-architecture-returns/

• Taoiseach launches €20 million cross-border Ulster Canal restoration project https://www.thejournal.ie/ulster-canal-clones-phase-2-restore-5853132-Aug2022/

• Employee fails in bid to have part of rent designated as business expense: Worker used spare bedroom as office during Covid restrictions and appeal to Tax Appeals Commission did not succeed  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2022/09/01/employee-fails-in-bid-to-have-part-of-rent-designated-as-business-expense/

• Jensen Huang interview: How the metaverse vision will outlast any economic downturn  https://venturebeat.com/metaverse/jensen-huang-interview-how-the-metaverse-vision-will-outlast-any-economic-downturn/

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

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 our shows, email the iPropertyRadio team at info@propertydistrict.ie

On #PropertyMatters this week…

Part 1: Natasha Rocca Devine of The Interiors NRD Studio makes the commercial case for  property staging to improve sale price and length of time on market, she also shares tips for vendors – and their agents!

Watch back:  https://youtu.be/KYFw-dmh9Qs

Part 2: Aengus Burns, Partner & Pension Trustee Practitioner with Grant Thornton Ireland discusses Irish property investment in 2022 and 2023, and what we can expect from Budget 2023.

Watch back: https://youtu.be/roN8dqrJyLI

Produced by Hear Me Roar Media

Listen back to all shows on https://ipropertyradio.com

PLACEMAKING

OPEN PUBLIC CONSULTATIONS AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

• If Ireland is such a ‘failed state’, then why do so many people want to live here? Despite the popular narrative among some, over the past five years more Irish nationals have returned to live here than have emigrated, while strong employment figures suggest the economy can weather any coming storm https://www.businesspost.ie/analysis-opinion/dan-obrien-if-ireland-is-such-a-failed-state-then-why-do-so-many-people-want-to-live-here/

• TikTok poet: it’s wrong that so many relate to housing misery – Lament over the cost of living in Dublin hits 500,000 views as message resonates with young people  https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/tiktok-poet-its-wrong-that-so-many-relate-to-housing-misery-qz072kpsr

• The links between where we live and how we commute. Analysis: land-use and transport policies must be coordinated to make walking, cycling and taking the bus more competitive https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2022/0829/1319376-land-use-transport-policies-commuting-walking-cycling-public-transport/

• Capel street in Dublin named one of coolest in the world  https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/capel-street-in-dublin-named-one-of-coolest-in-the-world-1356546.html

• Tents and modular homes are going up – and so are the nimby hackles – We are at a tipping point in our response to Ukrainian refugees and politicians need to be careful not to feed populist rhetoric  https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2022/09/03/tents-and-modular-homes-are-going-up-and-so-are-the-nimby-hackles/

• National Indoor Arena to be used as refugee accommodation  https://www.rte.ie/sport/athletics/2022/0902/1320283-indoor-arena-to-be-used-as-refugee-accommodation/

• Body for housing people with mental health difficulties reports ‘significant growth’ for 2021: Housing Association for Integrated Living delivered tenancy support services for record 586 people and boosted number of homes to 423 https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2022/08/29/body-for-housing-people-with-mental-health-difficulties-reports-significant-growth-for-2021/

• Clontarf to city centre cycle project to see bus stops moved or removed along route: Only one new bus stop appears to be added along the track https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/dublin-news/clontarf-city-centre-cycle-project-24898630

• Works costing €230m needed to stop parts of Dublin-Wicklow line from falling into sea – Irish Rail: East Coast Railway Infrastructure Protection Projects designed to defend coastal line from erosion and flooding for the next 50 to 100 years  https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/dublin/2022/09/01/infrastructure-works-costing-230m-required-to-save-line-between-dublin-and-wicklow-says-irish-rail/

• 26 Irish towns to receive €100,000 each as part of “facelift” fund  https://www.joe.ie/amp/news/26-irish-towns-receive-e100000-part-facelift-fund-754369

• ‘Richmond Revival’ well underway as iconic Fermoy house set to host inaugural North Cork Arts Festival: ‘The Richmond Revival’ features a three-day music festival with an eclectic mix of acts https://m.independent.ie/regionals/corkman/news/richmond-revival-well-underway-as-iconic-fermoy-house-set-to-host-inaugural-north-cork-arts-festival-41945125.html

• Planning granted for bypass of traffic bottleneck, Adare  https://www.radiokerry.ie/news/planning-granted-for-bypass-of-traffic-bottleneck-adare-295154

• Kilkenny mansion influenced White House design, new study suggests: Architect James Hoban spent his childhood in Desart Court, Cuffesgrange, which was burned down by anti-Treaty republicans during the Civil War  https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2022/08/29/kilkenny-mansion-influenced-white-house-design-new-study-suggests/

• Public meeting to take place on accessible housing in Kilkenny https://www.kilkennypeople.ie/news/home/899989/public-meeting-to-take-place-on-accessible-housing-in-kilkenny.html

• Public Consultation Underway For New Footpath And Street Lighting In Bray  https://www.eastcoast.fm/news/wicklow-news/public-consultation-underway-for-new-footpath-and-street-lighting-in-bray/

• Wall art project proposed for Mayo town centre  https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2022/08/29/wall-art-project-proposed-for-mayo-town-centre/

• €100,000 for east Mayo town’s streetscapes and shopfronts  https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2022/08/30/e100000-for-east-mayo-towns-streetscapes-and-shopfronts/

• Mayo group to hold public meetings over controversial ‘Acres’ proposal  https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2022/09/01/mayo-group-to-hold-public-meetings-over-controversial-acres-proposal/

• Council’s drive to protect old Ramelton pays off: Ramelton Historic Towns Initiative shortlisted for Excellence in Local Government Award  https://www.donegallive.ie/news/local-news/898810/council-s-drive-to-protect-old-ramelton-pays-off.html

• Former cinema in Monaghan town could face demolition  https://www.northernsound.ie/news/former-cinema-in-monaghan-town-could-face-demolition-201071

• ‘If you have the passion, just take the risk’ — Ireland’s growing love for alternative accommodation: Staycations have resulted in the growth of alternative accommodation in Ireland  https://www.irishexaminer.com/business/companies/arid-40950695.html

• Bord Pleanála decision on ‘vital’ €500m sewage plant delayed to next year – Irish Water asked to resubmit significant parts of application for Clonshaugh wastewater treatment plant  https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2022/09/03/bord-pleanala-decision-on-vital-500m-sewage-plant-delayed-to-next-year/

CONSTRUCTION & DEVELOPMENT NEWS

• Planning risk to 1,800 homes as developers take legal challenges after An Bord Pleanála resignation  https://extra.ie/2022/09/03/news/irish-news/planning-permission-risk-homes

• House building in Dublin up 41% in a year – The number of homes built in Dublin over the past year has increased by 41%.  https://www.newstalk.com/news/house-building-in-dublin-up-41-in-a-year-1378681

• More than 1,100 legal actions now lodged over properties affected by mica – International experts assisting in preparing statement of claim, which is expected to be delivered by end of September  https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/courts/2022/09/03/more-than-1100-legal-actions-now-lodged-over-properties-affected-by-mica/

• Construction industry levy and vacant homes tax expected in budget : Around €80m of the €2.7bn mica redress scheme is expected to be raised by a levy targeting the construction industry  https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/politics/arid-40952015.html Also: Mica: State warned cost of €800m levy on builders ‘will be passed onto buyers’: Construction Industry Federation says plan to raise €80m per year for a decade from builders to help fund €2.7bn scheme will risk the ‘viability’ of new building schemes https://www.businesspost.ie/news/mica-state-warned-cost-of-e800m-levy-on-builders-will-be-passed-onto-buyers/

• The challenge of increasing wood in construction – There are major challenges and benefits in developing markets for both timber frame housing and mass wood medium rise buildings using homegrown timber. Donal Magner reports. https://www.farmersjournal.ie/the-challenge-of-increasing-wood-in-construction-718750

• CRH warns ‘second wave’ of inflation set to hit construction industry: Head of world’s largest building materials group warns higher costs are spreading beyond energy  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/economy/2022/08/31/crh-warns-second-wave-of-inflation-set-to-hit-construction-industry/

• ‘Forward funding’ model enabling funds to avoid higher taxes: If institutional investors ‘forward fund’ residential developments, they can avoid stamp duty charges on residential blocks because the property never technically changes hands https://www.businesspost.ie/news/forward-funding-model-enabling-funds-to-avoid-higher-taxes/

• First 569 homes to be built in new Dublin suburb Clonburris https://www.breakingnews.ie/amp/ireland/first-569-homes-to-be-built-in-new-dublin-suburb-clonburris-1356440.html

• South Dublin residents concerned over ‘ghettoised population’ from ‘build to rent’ scheme: Twenty objections have been lodged against the proposed 63 unit scheme.  https://www.thejournal.ie/milltown-residents-object-build-to-rent-5855471-Sep2022/

• Dublin student accommodation to open late due to ‘supply chain issues’: Brewers Close and Ardee Point projects push back opening of purpose-built housing for students  https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2022/08/30/dublin-student-accommodation-to-open-late-due-to-supply-chain-issues/

• Premier Inn adds €20m Clerys site to city expansion: Whitbread plc, the owner of the Premier Inn chain of hotels, has purchased the hotel site at the back of Clerys on O’Connell Street in Dublin for €20 million. The off-market deal is thought to be one of the most expensive hotel site sales in the capital since before the pandemic.  https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/premier-inn-adds-20m-clerys-site-to-city-expansion-xbjjpvmfv

• Appeal lodged against two new data centres in Clondalkin, despite local ban: The project was initially approved by South Dublin County Council in early August.  https://www.thejournal.ie/planning-appeal-clondalkin-data-centres-5855031-Sep2022/

• Plan for massive student complex in shopping centre carpark billed as ‘ludicrous’  https://connachttribune.ie/plan-for-massive-student-complex-in-shopping-centre-carpark-billed-as-ludicrous/

• Appeals lodged against Cork Docklands’ redevelopment: Animal feed production company Southern Milling expresses ‘grave’ concerns over redevelopment  https://www.irishexaminer.com/property/developmentconstruction/arid-40950968.html

• Over 2,000 new homes built in Cork in the past twelve months: Minister for Housing Darragh O’Brien, believe that the Housing for All plan is working in Cork and across the country  https://www.corkbeo.ie/news/local-news/over-2000-new-homes-built-24917592

• Cork GAA suffers setback in plans to sell land to offset Páirc Uí Chaoimh debt: Cork City Council recommends against An Bord Pleanála granting planning permission to Cork GAA for more than 300 houses on its lands at Kilbarry  https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2022/08/30/cork-gaa-suffers-setback-in-plans-to-sell-land-to-offset-pairc-ui-chaoimh-debt/

• Plans for apartment and office block in Moycullen rejected  https://connachttribune.ie/plans-for-apartment-and-office-block-in-moycullen-rejected/amp/

• Aldi announces €63m West of Ireland expansion programme  https://www.rte.ie/news/business/2022/0831/1319874-aldi-announces-63m-west-of-ireland-expansion-programme/

• Appeal lodged against refusal of townhouse development in Oughterard  https://connachttribune.ie/appeal-lodged-against-refusal-of-townhouse-development-in-oughterard/amp/

• Planning approval sought to reopen quarry near Tuam  https://www.galwaydaily.com/news/planning-approval-sought-to-reopen-quarry-near-tuam/

• Appeal lodged against 25 new Cavan town homes  https://www.northernsound.ie/news/appeal-lodged-against-25-new-cavan-town-homes-200857

• Council confirm 50 new homes for Mayo town in €14m. investment  https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2022/09/01/council-confirm-50-new-homes-for-mayo-town-in-e14m-investment/

• Plans lodged for largest ever private housing scheme for Ennis  https://www.breakingnews.ie/amp/ireland/plans-lodged-for-largest-ever-private-housing-scheme-lodged-for-ennis-1357775.html

• Permission sought for major housing development in Kildare  https://www.kildarenow.com/news/home/899957/permission-sought-for-major-housing-development-in-kildare.html

• Newton Emerson: A new university campus could transform Belfast’s under-populated centre: But being the North, the plans became a chaotic free-for-all, with the city’s usual mix of official ineptitude and pathetic gratitude for anyone building anything  https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2022/09/01/newton-emerson-a-new-university-campus-could-transform-belfasts-under-populated-centre/

• Kildare firm had major role in Dublin’s new €360m airport runway  https://www.kildarenow.com/news/home/898533/kildare-firm-had-major-role-in-dublin-s-new-360m-airport-runway.html

• Louth electrician reaches semi-finals of Screwfix Top Tradesperson 2022 https://www.dundalkdemocrat.ie/news/home/896242/louth-electrician-reaches-semi-finals-of-screwfix-top-tradesperson-2022.html

• Shannon Airport looking for consultants to assess its impact on Irish economy: Shannon Airport Group has a property portfolio of 3,300 acres and 2.5 million sq ft of space  https://www.irishexaminer.com/business/economy/arid-40951700.html

• Sisk construction group switches its machinery to vegetable oil fuel: Switch to HVO fuel will cut about 37% of the group’s carbon emissions  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2022/08/29/sisk-construction-group-switches-its-machinery-to-vegetable-oil-fuel/

• “Days are filled with new challenges, and with that comes responsibility and excitement,” — 60 seconds with Conor McGinn of EDC  https://businessandfinance.com/news/days-are-filled-with-new-challenges-and-with-that-comes-responsibility-and-excitement-60-seconds-with-conor-mcginn-of-edc/amp/

• Dezeen teamed up with bathroom brand Kohler to host a live panel discussion exploring luxury, wellbeing and digital innovation. https://www.dezeen.com/2022/08/25/kohler-live-talk-luxury-digital-innovation/

PROPTECH, ESG, MMC & CONSTRUCTION INNOVATION

• Proptech Ireland is updating the database of 2022 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

• Everything you need to know to make a great startup pitch deck  https://techcrunch.com/2022/09/01/startup-pitch-deck/

• Amazing news – well done Team #Doddl! Ireland’s largest digital mortgage broker Doddl.ie secures seven-figure investment https://m.independent.ie/business/irish/irelands-largest-digital-mortgage-broker-doddlie-secures-seven-figure-investment-41954736.html Listen back to our interview with Doddl.ie chief, Martina Hennessy: https://youtu.be/RZ8GW2LUlJw

• ‘Modular housing for students not ruled out’ – Simon Harris  https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/education/modular-housing-for-students-not-ruled-out-simon-harris-41950975.html

• 3D printing: The building block to construct new homes – First owner-occupied 3D home was built in 2017 but they require manual fit-out for plumbing and electrics  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/innovation/2022/09/01/3d-printing-the-building-block-to-construct-new-homes/

• Ireland-based FlowForma To Host Process Automation Breakfast Briefing in New York on September 13, 2022  https://www.constructiondive.com/press-release/20220829-flowforma-to-host-process-automation-breakfast-briefing-in-new-york-on-sept/

• ECOCEM launches Superfine – Low carbon, super-high grade GGBS for specialist applications https://www.worldcement.com/product-news/30082022/ecocem-launches-superfine–low-carbon-super-high-grade-ggbs-for-specialist-applications/amp/

• How this DCU spin-out is helping build the UK’s ‘greenest road ever’  https://www.siliconrepublic.com/start-ups/ambisense-lower-thames-crossing-project-stephen-mcnulty-environmental-risk

• Proptech is boosting ESG credentials | Connected Real Estate Magazine https://connectedremag.com/smart-buildings/proptech/proptech-is-boosting-esg-credentials/

• 10 Start-ups Creating Innovative and Sustainable Building Materials, from Mycelium Bricks to Water Purifying Tiles https://www.archdaily.com/988017/mushroom-mycelium-bricks-and-water-purifying-tiles-10-innovative-and-sustainable-building-materials

• SITECH help drive site efficiency at The Sirius Group  https://www.agg-net.com/news/sitech-help-drive-site-efficiency-at-the-sirius-group

• Act now for a net zero construction industry  https://premierconstructionnews.com/2022/08/25/act-now-for-a-net-zero-construction-industry/

• Why has the adoption of modern methods of construction (MMC) at scale within the housing sector failed to materialise and what needs to change for this to happen?  https://www.construction-europe.com/news/barriers-to-mmc-adoption/8022985.article

• Will extreme weather increase the adoption of MMC?  https://www.pbctoday.co.uk/news/mmc-news/will-extreme-weather-increase-the-adoption-of-mmc/114752/

• Technology Isn’t Trend, It’s Timeless  https://www.archdaily.com/988131/technology-isnt-trend-its-timeless

• How WiredScore Helps Occupiers Identify Technologically-Optimized Office Buildings: Future Of Global Building Standards, brought to you by WiredScore  https://commercialobserver.com/2022/08/how-wiredscore-helps-occupiers-identify-technologically-optimized-office-buildings/

• SWITCHBOT LOCK REVIEW: A TINY ROBOT HAND THAT UNLOCKS YOUR DOOR Yes, it looks as weird as it sounds, but it works well as a basic smart lock  https://www.theverge.com/23323597/switchbot-lock-review-smart-door-lock

• SwitchBot Curtain Rod 2 — a great way to automate your existing curtains: The SwitchBot Curtain Rod 2 is totally unnecessary for most of us, but if you have a curtain that’s not easy to access or you find mobility difficult this is a great option. https://www.irishexaminer.com/business/technology/arid-40952555.html

• ‘Reality One’ might be Apple’s AR headgear moniker: Trademark filings lead sleuths in a new direction  https://www.techradar.com/news/reality-one-might-be-apples-ar-headgear-moniker

• 3 Reasons to Integrate Real-Time Visualization Into Your Workflow  https://www.archdaily.com/987529/3-reasons-to-integrate-real-time-visualization-into-your-workflow

• Kterio bags $10M to expand SaaS for commercial buildings – AIM Group https://aimgroup.com/2022/09/02/kterio-bags-10m-to-expand-saas-for-commercial-buildings/

• Burn, baby, burn. Real estate-focused fintech startups feel the heat  https://techcrunch.com/2022/08/28/burn-baby-burn-real-estate-focused-fintech-startups-feel-the-heat/

• Landa can make you a landlord with just $5  https://techcrunch.com/2022/08/31/real-estate-fintech-landa-investment-rental-properties-proptech/

• Singapore-based Propseller uses data to take the hassle out of real estate transactions https://techcrunch.com/2022/08/29/singapore-based-propseller-uses-data-to-take-the-hassle-out-of-real-estate-transactions/?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbQ&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAACD4TaJQHJgsi7Y9adedILf5W5l0mE1eZFvnExMVN56KKaUA_CmzrGBrNvYhFKalVyvK3Nr_NrV_3BPvHtBV6T-BWD-ClQ4tE53WkvwOt1A5BjPc-G7knP6kImu6n3X1_5QKfGqy992mECbtozUs7Hh2Qpt-LiYUHx437Ky7qva3

CLIMATE & ENVIRONMENT

 

• Ryan says government ‘won’t be found wanting’ on energy crisis: Following the recent spike in prices, the minister tells Daniel Murray that political leaders understand the scale of the problem and are working to protect the vulnerable https://www.businesspost.ie/news-focus/ryan-says-government-wont-be-found-wanting-on-energy-crisis/

• Minister signals move to curtail use of fossil fuel in homes: Policy agenda to include gas boilers which will trigger likely ban on future installation, confirms Eamon Ryan  https://www.irishtimes.com/environment/climate-crisis/2022/09/01/minister-signals-move-to-curtail-use-of-fossil-fuel-in-homes/ Also, details of ban on gas and oil home-heating systems to be known within weeks: Environment Minister Eamon Ryan wants district heating systems to be deployed swiftly as an alternative  https://m.independent.ie/news/environment/details-of-ban-on-gas-and-oil-home-heating-systems-to-be-known-within-weeks-41954294.html

• Eirgrid spent €10m in 2018 on land for emergency power generator but site remains vacant: Land earmarked for emergency power plant still unused in spite of State facing squeeze in supplies  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2022/08/30/eirgrid-spent-10m-in-2018-on-land-for-emergency-power-generator-but-site-remains-vacant/

• Sparks fly as EirGrid and CRU play the power blame game: The heads of the electricity grid operator and the energy regulator last week traded criticisms in Leinster House before an audience of deeply unimpressed politicians. Meanwhile, businesses scramble to draw up emergency plans to survive the winter  https://www.businesspost.ie/news-focus/sparks-fly-as-eirgrid-and-cru-play-the-power-blame-game/

• Solar farm with power for 16,000 Cork homes is first big Irish project for global green energy giant: World-leading renewable energy company Ørsted already employs 90 people in Cork and this is the first of a number of projects planned for Munster  https://www.corkbeo.ie/news/local-news/solar-farm-power-16000-cork-24885022

• Carrickmacross business to create 200 jobs at new headquarters  https://www.northernsound.ie/news/carrickmacross-business-to-create-200-jobs-at-new-headquarters-200934

• Inside the UK government’s plans to ‘transform’ its real estate portfolio  https://www.egi.co.uk/news/inside-the-governments-plans-to-transform-its-real-estate-portfolio/

• The Future of Glass Construction in a Warmer World: A Selection of Glazed but Efficient Projects  https://www.archdaily.com/987719/the-future-of-glass-construction-in-a-warmer-world-a-selection-of-glazed-but-efficient-projects

RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY NEWS (including PRS)

• Huge increase in number of landlords who are exiting the market: Sinn Féin housing spokesperson, Eoin Ó Broin, wants more action after eviction notices double in last year  https://m.independent.ie/business/personal-finance/property-mortgages/huge-increase-in-number-of-landlords-who-are-exiting-the-market-41958015.html

• Cost-of-living rises hitting prospective renters and buyers, survey finds  https://www.breakingnews.ie/amp/ireland/cost-of-living-rises-hitting-prospective-renters-and-buyers-survey-finds-1356322.html

• Landlord ordered to pay €5,000 to tenant over unlawful access  https://m.independent.ie/regionals/dublin/landlord-ordered-to-pay-5000-to-tenant-over-unlawful-access-41945915.html

• [INSTITUTIONAL]* fund pauses house repossession bid amid claims it breached Central Bank rules https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/courts/vulture-fund-pauses-house-repossession-bid-amid-claims-it-breached-central-bank-rules-41954857.html *Incorrect terminology removed

• Less than €4k of fines issued to landlords in four years for not registering a tenancy  https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40950863.html

• Local authorities owed €105m in unpaid rent: 285 social housing tenants having arrears in excess of €20,000  https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/social-affairs/2022/08/30/local-authorities-owed-105m-in-unpaid-rent/

• Around €2 million owed to Cavan and Monaghan councils in unpaid rent https://www.northernsound.ie/news/around-e2-million-owed-to-cavan-and-monaghan-councils-in-unpaid-rent-200943

• Sherry FitzGerald expects a busy season of selling as housing demand remains strong  https://www.advertiser.ie/galway/article/131356/sherry-fitzgerald-expects-a-busy-season-of-selling-as-housing-demand-remains-strong

• ‘Don’t get caught up in the emotional draw of the forever home’  – The buyer’s agent shares her secrets, including why she always advises using your ‘business head’ when purchasing a property  https://www.irishexaminer.com/property/homeandgardens/arid-40953650.html

• ‘Switching was no longer worth it after Avant raised fixed rates’  https://m.independent.ie/business/personal-finance/property-mortgages/switching-was-no-longer-worth-it-after-avant-raised-fixed-rates-41957492.html

• Former ‘House of Lords’ for sale on Mountjoy Square for €1.85m: Number 65 was given the moniker in the early 1800s due to the sheer number of nobility arriving to court the Geale daughters https://www.irishtimes.com/property/residential/2022/08/29/former-house-of-lords-for-sale-on-mountjoy-square-for-185m/

• Senior tech executive pays €7.2m for Sandycove home as wave of high-end sales continues: Mornington House, a Georgian property with direct access to the foreshore in the south Dublin seaside suburb, acquired in off-market transaction  https://www.irishtimes.com/property/residential/2022/09/01/senior-tech-executive-pays-72m-for-sandycove-home-as-wave-of-high-end-sales-continues/

• Millionaires’ Row in Limerick – surge in property sales in excess of €500,000  https://www.limerickleader.ie/news/home/897353/millionaires-row-in-limerick-surge-in-property-sales-in-excess-of-500-000.html

• Avoca residential property ‘a lovely compact holding’  https://www.agriland.ie/farming-news/avoca-residential-property-a-lovely-compact-holding/

• Luxury Louth homes in Carlingford and Blackrock command top prices  https://m.independent.ie/regionals/louth/news/luxury-louth-homes-in-carlingford-and-blackrock-command-top-prices-41945033.html

• New series of “Cheap Irish Homes” is all about value and presenter Maggie Molloy is on a mission to find Ireland’s most reasonably priced properties… https://www.rte.ie/tv/programmes/1319795-cheap-irish-homes/

• An interior designer’s comprehensive guide to window treatments https://www.image.ie/living/an-interior-designers-comprehensive-guide-to-window-treatments-553227

• 12 Churches That Have Been Turned Into Heavenly Homes: Sought-after design elements like vaulted ceilings, tall windows and doors, and historic charm came built in with these renovated residences  https://www.dwell.com/article/renovated-churches-turned-into-homes-3576982f

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY NEWS

• Local nursing homes are closing at an alarming rate: Small, homely, local nursing homes are closing at an alarming rate. Chief Executive of Nursing Homes Ireland Tadhg Daly joined Anton Savage to discuss the solutions.  https://www.newstalk.com/podcasts/highlights-from-the-pat-kenny-show/local-nursing-homes-are-closing-at-an-alarming-rate

• Post-pandemic demand for sustainable space driving change in Dublin office market: Preference for greener workspaces is leading activity, with many older buildings being passed over  https://www.irishtimes.com/property/commercial-property/2022/08/26/post-pandemic-demand-for-sustainable-space-driving-change-in-dublin-office-market/

• We’re all working from home two days per week – but office landlord IPUT is still betting big on the city centre: It is a nervous moment for the commercial property industry. But rents and yields are still holding up. Niall Gaffney, CEO of Ireland’s largest office landlord IPUT, is optimistic about the future of the office, and of the city.  https://thecurrency.news/articles/94151/were-all-working-from-home-two-days-per-week-but-office-landlord-iput-is-still-betting-big-on-the-city-centre/

• We’re looking at a culture war’: The growing divide between bosses and staff over remote working: After more than two years of employees working from home, many big companies want to shift the balance back to the office – but staff who are used to remote working are likely to put up plenty of resistance  https://www.businesspost.ie/news-focus/were-looking-at-a-culture-war-the-growing-divide-between-bosses-and-staff-over-remote-working/

• Irishman leads group offering Americans premium co-working and gym spaces: James O’Reilly is in charge of a premium health club chain’s rollout of high-end co-working locations in the US and Canada https://www.businesspost.ie/news/irishman-leads-group-offering-americans-premium-co-working-and-gym-spaces/

• Watches of Switzerland to open Tag Heuer ‘boutique’ in Dundrum: Unit set to be company’s first Irish store https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2022/08/29/watches-of-switzerland-to-open-tag-heuer-boutique-in-dundrum/

• Ecco secures a fresh foothold on Grafton Street: Danish-Irish shoe retailer agrees deal to occupy former premises of Carphone Warehouse  https://www.irishtimes.com/property/commercial-property/2022/08/31/ecco-secures-a-fresh-foothold-on-grafton-street/

• Famed Howth pub beloved by movie stars and royalty seeks €1.75m: Dating from the 16th century, the Abbey Tavern hosted the late Princess Grace of Monaco and Robert Redford  https://www.irishtimes.com/property/commercial-property/2022/08/31/famed-howth-pub-beloved-by-movie-stars-and-royalty-seeks-175m/

• Colony Capital seeks €34.4m for Sandyford office block as Irish retreat continues: US private equity giant’s move to dispose of the Hive follows recent letting of 30,000sq ft to Cubic Telecom  https://www.irishtimes.com/property/commercial-property/2022/08/31/colony-capital-seeks-344m-for-sandyford-office-block-as-irish-retreat-continues/

• Iput and Davy seek €71.5m for Citywest office scheme: Sale of Waterside buildings offers buyer 7.3% net initial yield and opportunity for further development  https://www.irishtimes.com/property/commercial-property/2022/08/31/iput-and-davy-seek-715m-for-citywest-office-scheme/

• North Face brings new blood to Cork’s battered Patrick’s Street: High-end footwear store Dune and The North Face amongst the new arrivals to the street  https://www.irishexaminer.com/property/commercial/arid-40952213.html

• Council says landowner is responsible for fixing hole in Cork City quay wall: City council facing mounting calls to step in and carry out emergency repairs to quay wall at South Gate Bridge and to bill the landowner for the costs later  https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/munster/arid-40952501.html

• City centre ‘not meeting full potential’: Upper floors of shops in town and city centres could be converted to accommodation, easing the housing crisis and providing extra income for the owners. So why has so much room languished for decades?  https://www.echolive.ie/corknews/arid-40951514.html

• French investor pays €19.4m for Galway office and manufacturing investments: Latest deal brings Corum Asset Management’s overall investment in the Republic and Northern Ireland to more than €320m  https://www.irishtimes.com/property/commercial-property/2022/08/31/french-investor-pays-194m-for-galway-office-and-manufacturing-investments/

• Iconic Kilkenny bar and lounge is up on market  https://www.kilkennypeople.ie/news/property/900647/iconic-kilkenny-bar-and-lounge-the-pike-is-up-on-market.html

• Fourteen well known Donegal pubs listed for sale  https://donegalnews.com/2022/08/fourteen-well-known-pubs-listed-for-sale/

• Tarbert retail and property owners can avail of €100,000 funding  https://www.radiokerry.ie/news/tarbert-retail-and-property-owners-can-avail-of-e100000-funding-295123

• €3.5m Ring of Kerry activity and adventure centre is fit for purpose: It has trained some of Ireland’s Fittest Families, challenged top rugby teams, hosts school groups as well as hosting activity-based stag and hen parties  https://www.irishexaminer.com/property/commercial/arid-40952327.html

• Seven Clare accommodation providers enter contracts worth estimated €6.36m to house Ukrainians https://www.clareecho.ie/seven-clare-accommodation-providers-enter-contracts-worth-estimated-e6-36m-to-house-ukrainians/

INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY NEWS

• 2022 International Architecture Awards Winners Announced  https://www.archdaily.com/988205/2022-international-architecture-awards-winners-announced

• Fury and backlash: Zoopla advise UK vendors on the best ways to drive down estate agency fees https://propertyindustryeye.com/fury-and-backlash-zoopla-advise-vendors-on-the-best-ways-to-drive-down-commission-fees/

• How Are Co-Living Spaces in London Offering Solutions for Rising Urban Density and Real Estate  https://www.archdaily.com/985811/how-are-co-living-spaces-in-london-offering-solutions-for-rising-urban-density-and-real-estate

• Ten buildings that showcase Birmingham’s brutalist history  https://www.dezeen.com/2022/08/29/birmingham-brutiful-years-brutalist-buildings-book/

• Denmark caps housing rent increases at 4 percent: The Danish parliament is to prevent landlords from taking advantage of high inflation to drastically hike rents by capping increases at 4 percent.  https://www.thelocal.dk/20220829/denmark-caps-housing-rent-increases-at-4-percent/

• Survey Says Commercial Real Estate Has a Bumpy Road Ahead  https://www.propmodo.com/survey-says-commercial-real-estate-has-a-bumpy-road-ahead/

• Should we talk about rent control in Australia?  https://thepropertytribune.com.au/opinion/should-we-talk-about-rent-control-in-australia/?amp

• China’s biggest property developer Country Garden sees profits plunge 96%: The company blames the ‘severe depression’ in the property market and says ‘only the fittest will survive’  https://www.theguardian.com/business/2022/aug/30/chinas-biggest-property-developer-country-garden-sees-profits-plunge-96

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/