First-Time Buyers Driving Wicklow Housing Market

The price of a typical second-hand three-bedroom semi in County Wicklow has risen slightly in recent months, according to the latest REA Average House Price Index.

The survey shows the average cost now stands at €406,417, up 0.5% in the last three months. Across the county, homes are taking an average of six weeks to reach “sale agreed.”

Simon Murphy of REA Murphy Baltinglass and Blessington said the start of March had crystallised decisions among landlords.

“There has been an increase in termination notices served, which will have an impact later in the year,” he said.

“Demand has been slow, primarily due to weather conditions and sentiment around global uncertainty. There is a possibility that more prospective purchasers may opt to take a wait-and-see approach, should interest rates rise, to combat inflationary trends.”

The survey highlights that first-time buyers are driving the Wicklow market, accounting for 70% of purchasers in the county this quarter. Meanwhile, 15% of sales were attributed to landlords leaving the market.

Energy efficiency is also playing a bigger role in home values locally. The survey found that A-rated BER homes in Wicklow are commanding roughly 10% higher prices than C-rated properties.

Simon Murphy noted this trend is becoming increasingly relevant as households focus on heating costs.

For comparison, the national picture shows a more moderate rise, with the price of a three-bedroom semi across Ireland up 1.5% over the last three months to €364,747, a 7.67% increase over the past year.

In Dublin, prices continue to climb, with an average three-bed semi now selling for €595,453, up 1.6% in the quarter.

Outside the capital, major cities recorded a 1.2% increase, large towns 2%, and commuter counties 1%. Across the board, energy-efficient homes are attracting premiums, with the A-rated vs C-rated BER price difference rising to 13%, up from 10% in December.

As Wicklow continues to see strong demand from first-time buyers, the market appears stable, but agents caution that wider economic factors, including interest rate changes and global uncertainty, could shape activity in the months ahead.