Address: 25 Kilbarrack Road, Raheny, Dublin 5

Agent: Property Team JB Kelly

This two-bedroom refurbished artisan cottage measures 53sq m (570sq ft). It has an open-plan kitchen, sitting and dining room, along with the bathroom. There is parking space in front and a west-facing rear garden. BER D2

Plus: It is beautifully done up inside with all the hallmarks of smart, contemporary living using natural materials

Minus: The utility and bathroom block beside the garden is dull

Address: Castle House, Killea, Templemore, Co Tipperary

Agent: Sherry FitzGerald Gleeson

Irish history lives in this four-bedroom property spanning from the 16th century tower at its centre to additions from various ages since. In Killea village and overlooked by the Devil’s Bit mountain, the house has a a mix of living and bedroom accommodation in each of its wings, stands on 2.94 hectares (7.27 acres). BER exempt.

Plus: A rare property with double-height spaces that echo the towering form

Minus: More could have been made of the tower, which houses a store, and the property rambles