Ciara and Greg have been trying to buy their first home together for over a year. The couple have their eye on a house in a new development Ros Mór, close to Limerick city. The last phase of the estate sold out so they expect a lot of competition from other buyers. Just six houses will be going on sale in this next phase so Greg decides to camp out at the estate agent’s office four days in advance, determined not to miss out.
I know some people think I’m mad turning up four days early, but I’m not taking any chances. So long as I don’t leave, that house is mine.
Greg O’Shea
For three days, Greg remains the only person in a queue of one, staying in the hallway of the estate’s agent during the day and then at night he’s out on the doorstep of the office. His fiancée Ciara plays her part by keeping him fed and watered. Then, on the night before the launch, more buyers join the queue.
There are only six houses so we’re relieved to be the first in the queue. I suppose it’s one good way to meet your new neighbours.
Ciara Greaney
In Galway city centre, a tiny terrace on New St. with a bargain price tag of €150K has raised a lot of curiosity from buyers looking for a bargain. The house is up for auction so it’s anyone’s guess how high the bidding will go on the day. Young couple Eimear and Darragh who both work locally, see this as a rare opportunity to afford their first home so close to the city centre. The house needs complete renovation so Eimear is determined to keep a reign on the budget. Bidding at an auction is daunting but she’s more concerned that Darragh might get caught up in the bidding and lose the run of himself on the day. But with a top budget of €190K, Darragh is confident that he has plenty of wriggle room. Will Eimear have to pull the plug?
I don’t mind taking a risk, but we have to be careful that we don’t end up spending a crazy amount of money on a very tiny property.
Eimear Kelly