Ready to make a break for the countryside?

If you’re hoping for a new start in 2021, the Cork property market is churning up an assortment of intriguing options in the under-€200k price bracket.

Of course, many of them need some updating, renovating and attention so they’re not for everyone, but if you’re the daring type and you’re determined to find a picture-perfect spot surrounded by rolling hills and green fields, there’s plenty to choose from.

Here are five that are on the market right now:

1. Derry Lodge, Rosscarbery, Co. Cork

Asking price: €80,000

Handy with a hammer? If you’ve got the DIY skills necessary, this charming stone-built gate lodge within 2km west of Rosscarbery town could be a West Cork dream home.

Derry Lodge is a unique and interesting partially renovated property situated on circa 0.25 of an acre.

According to agents, DNG Galvin, “Derry Lodge is a blank canvas bursting with potential within easy reach of coastal fishing villages, Glandore and Union Hall. Skibbereen town is within 17km. This property represents an excellent opportunity to acquire an enchanting lodge in a perfect location.”

2. Pluckanes North, Donoughmore, Co. Cork

Asking price: €100,000

This one looks like a country home from an Irish fairytale.

Of course, it will need some renovation and modernisation, but for the right buyer, this detached cottage with assorted stone sheds is an opportunity to set up home on a one-acre site located 3.4km from Bweeng.

The stone-built one-bedroom cottage is currently fitted with a slate roof and timber windows, with around 724 sq. ft. of space on the ground floor. It also has a private well.

3. Elm House, Upper Aghada, Midleton, Co. Cork

Asking price: €195,000

Neat as a pin with a sweet blue door and sash windows, this three-bed cottage was built in the 1800s and still retains period features including exposed stone walls and a Belfast sink.

Inside there’s a cosy lounge, sitting room, and kitchen/dining area, with one ensuite upstairs as well as a family bathroom, with a garden and shed out back.

“Apart from the local shops, post office, school and church, Aghada boasts an extensive range of outdoor amenities including Aghada Tennis & Sailing Club, Pitch & Putt Course, Trabolgan Holiday Village and a choice of sandy beaches… all within close proximity. The property is within easy access of the Jack Lynch Tunnel and only 10 minutes from the bustling town of Midleton.” say the agents, Hegarty Properties.

4. Gurteenard, Kanturk, Co. Cork

Asking price: €85,000

This two-bed cottage with green shutters and a white-washed gable sits on a 0.3 acre roadside site within a short walking distance of Kanturk town.

The property is situated in the townland of Gurteenard, adjacent to Kanturk AFC and within a few hundred metres of the town boundary. The property also boasts attractive views of Kanturk castle.

“Accommodation comprises an open plan sitting room, kitchen and dining room on the ground floor with two bedrooms and toilet on the first floor.” says agent, Liam Murphy.

“The residence has been modernised and insulated with underfloor heating on the ground floor and solid fuel stove. The property is also fully furnished throughout.”

5. 1 The Courtyard, Knockgrom, Midleton, Co. Cork

Asking price: €165,000

If it’s open-plan living you’re after, this three-bedroom detached cottage has the makings of a mini ski-lodge style home, as well as room to grow

According to agents Terence O’Leary of Murray Browne Auctioneers: “This property is standing on a beautiful plot of ground with its own private entrance. It is very deceiving from the outside, this property offers plenty of living space with well-proportioned bedrooms throughout.

Only minutes from Midleton (2km) and 30 minutes from Cork City via N25 AND R629, it’s in need of a little kindness but it would make a lovely family home.