In the market for a new home?

A property with a well designed outdoor area can double your living space – especially if we have half the sunshine we enjoyed last summer in the future.

No matter what area you’re browsing in, never judge a book by its cover; some of the most magical terraces, decks, courtyards and flower beds often lie unseen behind the house.

Here are four Cork properties with a surprising secret in the back garden… we’re already imagining the barbecues.

1. Helen Ville, Magazine Road

Price: €385,000, listed here

This four-bed end-of-terrace home is on a sunny street close to UCC and CUH. Inside, the spacious rooms are freshly decorated and spotless. Take the door outside from the kitchen and it gets even better; the back garden is a landscaped dream with established trees and plants. Perfect for the low maintenance homeowner.

2. Frenchs Villas, Fairhill

Price: €245,000, listed here

With subway-tiled bathrooms and fresh furnishings, this three-bedroom semi-detached home has plenty going for it inside, but it’s the outdoor party area out the back that will seal the deal.

3. Norwood court, Cobh

Price: €395,000, listed here

A dormer bungalow with four bedrooms, Saimhne is located in Norwood Court just off Lake Road. From the front, it’s neat and tidy with landscaped gardens and a sweeping driveway. At the back you can taking in breathtaking views on the harbour from a huge decking area and a large upstairs balcony.

4. Old Road, Ballycotton

Price: €220,000, listed here

While it needs a little updating internally, this thatched home looks like something from a fairytale. Right in the middle of Ballycotton Village and a stone’s throw from East Cork’s beautiful beaches, this four-bedroom cottage has a private courtyard with sea views for al fresco dinners and morning coffee in the sunshine.