Address: 65 Leopardstown Avenue, Leopardstown, Dublin 18

Agent: Vincent Finnegan

This four-bedroom house is beside Leopardstown racecourse, has a west facing garden out back and a drive to the front. The 148.64sq m home has a living room, dining room, kitchen, breakfast room, study/playroom, sunroom and guest wc on the ground floor. The four bedrooms and a bathroom are on the floor above. The Luas is a five-minute walk away. BER:G

Plus: Generous windows and glass doors to the garden. Beside a green.

Minus: Needs an update: there's quite a bit of ornate brown and beige going on.

Address: Firville House, Firville, Mallow, Co Cork

Agent: Savills

This five-bedroom Georgian from the end of the 1700s, sits on four acres through which a drive leads to the front door. The 650sq m house also has a walled garden, outbuildings and a tennis court. On the ground floor are three reception rooms, kitchen and WC. Four bedrooms are on the first floor and a bathroom. The house has its own well.

Plus: Fabulous proportions and in good condition. Equestrian setting.

Minus: Colour scheme suited to the period. Newcomers may want to add shades that speak to them.