It’s a tricky market out there.

Whether you’re trying to get a foot on the property ladder or attempting to trade up in search of more space, the choice in the city centre and suburbs is limited… especially if you dream of nabbing some land as part of the deal.

Widen the net a mere 40 minutes west of the city to the market town of Macroom however and there’s a choice of roomy properties just waiting to be snapped up by the canny buyer.

Many boast football-pitch gardens, roomy bedrooms and spare outbuildings for renovating in your own time.

Here are four spacious properties that fit the bill:

1. Gurranecarney, Macroom

Price: €249,500

This lovingly reconstructed four-bedroom farmhouse on two acres was completely rebuilt and extended from the stone ruins of an earlier traditional farmhouse. Inside, the rooms are comfortable and spacious, with an old stone fireplace and stove, modern bathrooms, exposed wooden beams and a lovely sun room for morning coffee.

2. Annahala West, Toames, Macroom

Price: €260,000

This three-bedroom, three-bathroom home oozes character. Nestled on one acre of private grounds, the interior features French doors, large open fireplaces, a Belfast sink and solid oak kitchen counters and panelling. Outside, two rustic stone outbuildings offer more opportunity for renovation down the line.

3. Ballingeary Village, Macroom

Price: €225,000

With seven bedrooms and three bathrooms, this period property boasts stunning views, plus it’s walking distance to the nearby village. Inside the decor could do with an update, but it’ll be a fun restoration project for someone with a keen eye for saving some of the original features. Within the grounds are seven more detached outbuildings, which could be used for various business ventures.

4. Gortatanavally, Inchigeelagh, Macroom

Price: €210,000

The details:  This three-bedroom family home boasts a wooden porch and an upstairs balcony off the main bedroom. With a modern kitchen and living area, it’s surrounded by 4.7 acres of land as well as a stone shed for extra storage or conversion into an Airbnb or workshop.