Inside Ireland’s property market: resilience, growth and global appeal

A resilient market for second-hand homes

This constrained pipeline continues to ripple through the wider market. In the second-hand sector, approximately 14,600 properties were advertised for sale in January, representing just 0.7% of Ireland’s total private housing stock. According to Sherry FitzGerald, the average value of second-hand homes in regional markets increased by 1.8% in the first quarter of 2026, and by 8% year-on-year. Dublin, meanwhile, has experienced more moderate — yet still resilient — growth, with prices rising 0.8% in the quarter and 4% year-on-year.

Ireland’s strong economy, underpinned by its reputation as a major FDI and technology hub — with companies including Meta, Google and Apple hosting their European headquarters here — has made the country an attractive destination for international relocations. Graham notes that at the upper end of the market, most buyers are families, drawn by the island’s political stability, strong education system, natural beauty and sense of community.

Where to buy in Ireland

In the capital, the prestigious neighbourhoods of Dublin 4 and Dublin 6 continue to attract buyers seeking a leafy, suburban feel within easy reach of the city centre. These areas benefit from excellent transport links and leading schools such as St Mary’s College and Alexandra College. “Within these neighbourhoods, you have small vibrant villages — such as Ranelagh, Rathmines and Rathgar — each with its own distinctive character,” Graham adds.

Travelling south of the city and along the coast, areas such as Sandymount, Blackrock, Monkstown, Sandycove, Dalkey and Killiney combine strong connectivity with a more relaxed, coastal lifestyle. “You’ll find beautiful period homes here — and if sea swimming is part of your routine, this is where you’ll want to be,” he adds.

To the north of Dublin, the peninsula of Howth — once a working fishing village — offers coastal charm, harbour views and a broad range of property styles, where seals are still spotted basking along the pier. Further along the coast, Malahide presents another attractive option. “There’s a real mix of prime residential homes here, from period properties to modern developments, including attractive detached homes set on generous plots,” he says.

The resilience of the Irish housing market

Like any property market, Ireland is not immune to geopolitical pressures. However, Graham notes that for international buyers in particular, Ireland’s political stability continues to be a powerful draw — especially given the relative value the country offers compared with other established prime markets.

“While there are some cautionary headwinds emerging and timeframes may lengthen, people are still moving and deals are still being done,” he says. “Given the undersupply of second-hand homes — particularly period properties — demand is likely to remain strong. If you find the right home in the right location, it makes sense to move ahead.”