Fix it up

A 1950s part brick semi in Dublin’s Stillorgan

What is it?

An old but sprightly semi built back in the days when builders of three beds gave you 1,400 sq with a garage thrown in to keep the rain off your Morris Oxford.

Tell me more about the place...

As modern semis began to take shape, the pram porch of the Edwardian era lingers, mingled with modern dash render. And of course, that uniquely 1950s smart white pointing. It has been in the same family for 60 years and is clean and bright but in need of a thorough upgrade to take it through the next 60.

The good news?

There are three receptions. This is a restoration job for a house type which is known (unlike the Morris Oxford) for giving very little trouble. There is a precedent to extend at the back and over the garage, providing another reception room, a modern kitchen/living extension and a fourth bedroom.

And the bad news?

This is Stillorgan/Mount Merrion where Blessed Josepha says mass and Lord Ross keeps the trams running on time. You’ll be paying top dollar for this canvas. Rewiring, replumbing, bathrooms, kitchens as well as new build work.

How much to buy it?

The asking price is currently €645,000. And to fix it up?

For the full monty listed above, you might not get too much change from €250k.

What will I end up with?

For circa €900k, a prestige four-bed home in an address with no more up and coming to do.

Who do I talk to?

Craig Flanagan and Weston Desmond at Sherry FitzGerald in Blackrock (01) 288 0088 will get you through the garage door.