Most importantly in this regard, planning permission has been granted to build, re-construct, renovate and extend the 120 sq m (1,290 sq ft) cottage by 53 sq m (566 sq ft).

The agents propose the extension to configure as: a 10ft x 10ft hallway; bathroom of 9ft 6in x 7ft 5in; and two bedrooms each 14ft 9in x 9ft 7in.

The derelict cottage was laid out as a kitchen, living/dining room and one bedroom.

Cronagort West is near both Doolin village and, what is fast becoming known internationally as the surf captial of Ireland, Lahinch.

Price: 200,000 Agent: Sherry FitzGerald McMahon 065-686 7866

Angling for Lough Corrib
WITH an elevated setting on the Dooros peninsula, overlooking Lough Corrib, Co Galway, this 1920s two-storey cottage with large gardens would make a spacious country home for families seeking freshwater "shing and lots of space to play.

The Gaeltacht village of Cornamona is just over a mile away, on the banks of the Dooghta river and at the base of Benlevy mountain, while the house itself sits on a quarter-acre of grounds surrounded by trees and shrubs.

Accommodation comprises the entrance porch with original sash windows, from which swing doors open directly to the large sitting room/kitchen. The original wooden beamed ceiling is a striking feature, as is the old pine-surround fireplace, Liscannor stone floor, pine cupboards and open staircase leading to the first floor. One of the three bedrooms leads from the kitchen, and retains its original corner fireplace.

Upstairs, the landing has painted panelled timber walls and ceiling, and leading off are the bathroom and two remaining bedrooms, again with original pine panelled walls and ceiling.

Price: 250,000 Agent: Spencer Auctioneers (091-552999)

The Forthsight saga
FORTHSIGHT is a charming detached house which was originally built in 1893 but has been completely refurbished and extended by the current owner.

In a beautiful setting on a halfacre site, this property would make an ideal permanent or holiday home.

About 10 minutes' drive from Wexford town, the house is close to all amenities.

Accommodation downstairs includes a large open-plan kitchen/living room/sunroom, lounge, utility room, and bedroom and shower room, while upstairs there are two double bedrooms, and a main bathroom.

The kitchen/living area is bright and spacious with and sliding doors out to the garden and built-in barbecue area, while the lounge has a feature curved wall with open fireplace. From here an Italian-made spiral oak staircase leads upstairs.

The main bedroom has a large walk-in wardrobe and double doors out to a balcony.

Price: excess 275,000.

Agent: Remax South East (053-9121977)

Waterford's crystal sea
DUNMORE East in Co Waterford retains the charm of the oldfashioned, unspoilt traditional seaside resort of another era.

Samas, a four-bed detached residence at Knockacurran, Killea, Dunmore East, is designed to take full advantage of its coastal setting.

Attractive features include high ceilings, hardwood floors, oak doors and marble fireplaces. Even the fully fitted, extra large kitchen has its own marble fireplace.

Double-height ceilings add to the feelgood light and space in the main livingroom.

Two bedrooms are situated on the lower floor, as is the main bathroom with jacuzzi bath, power shower and Italian mosaic tiles. On the upper level are the two remaining bedrooms, both en-suite, and the main one with double doors out onto its own private deck. Samas is an old Irish word meaning tranquillity, says selling agent John Rohan, and appropriate with regard to this impressive property.

Price: AMV 1.5m Agent: John Rohan Auctioneers, 051-843 880