Fix it up

A primary school in Kilkenny

What is it?

Smithstown National School in Kilkenny was built in 1890. It taught the sons and daughters of local farmers in its one great big classroom (with a segregated playground!) before closing 70 years ago. There’s almost an acre of ground and it’s 2.5kms from Castlecomer.

Tell me more about the place...

The entrance hall still has the coat hangers at low level for one time local littlies who are now old age pensioners. Otherwise it’s one huge 1,000 sq ft room with a very high ceiling and great big windows which flood the place with light. There’s an open fireplace at one end and a big iron stove at the other. Water on a group scheme and lecky on.

The good news?

Structurally it seems fine other than a small hole knocked out of one wall when the owners were planning an extension. A great timber floor, high ceilings with room for a mezzanine and the owners already have plans drawn up.

And the bad news?

Needs a bathroom, plumbing, wiring, plastering, some form of insulation, sub division, mezzanine and a septic tank.

How much to buy it?

The price is €105,000.

And to fix it up?

Another €60k will likely fund it all.

What will I end up with?

A bright two-bed home with a difference for €165,000.

Who do I talk to?

Ciaran Dunphy at DNG Ellen Dunphy will take you back to school (056) 7786000.