Three miles from Dublin city centre, Dundrum is situated between Goatstown and Churchtown on the southside of the city. Once a sleepy village, the town has been transformed into the hip new place to live in Dublin thanks to the Dundrum Town Centre, the Luas . . . which has reduced journey time into the city to 15 minutes . . . and a plethora of new housing and apartment developments.

Average house prices:

As one of the most popular new locations in the city, prices are not cheap. There is very little within the average first-time buyer's budget. Prices vary from 750,000 for a three-bed semi rising to 2 - 3m on Sydenham Road. But good value can be found in ex-council houses around Taney Crescent where three-bed semis (circa 137sq m) start around 560,000 to 570,000. Two-bed apartments start around 550,000.

Type of houses:

There is a good variety of house types from the exclusive three-storey-over basement Victorian properties to modern large, detached houses on 0.5 to 0.4 acres. There is also a good range of three- and four-bed modern homes in small housing estates as well as several new popular apartment developments.

Rental market:

The Luas and a wide range of amenities and employment close by have made Dundrum a very popular rental location.

"Two-bed units rent for around 1,450 per month and three-bed houses rent for around 1,600 per month. At the higher end of the market, well-located family homes circa 149sq m would rent for around 2,200, " according to Siobhan Lynam, Lynam Auctioneers.

Best streets to live in:

Sydenham Road is one of the most exclusive addresses in the area adds Lynam. "Large Victorian properties sell for around 2m - 3m. Taney Road is also popular. Large family houses close to the village start from 2m with houses at the Goatstown end commanding around 1.2m. Good-sized family homes can be found on Taney Rise, where prices start from 1.2m - 1.5m."

Transport:

Luas and several bus routes including 48A, 44, 75. Dundrum is also close to the M50.

Amenities:

Dundrum Town Centre, Dundrum Civic Theatre and a good range of bars, restaurants and cafes. Restaurants include Harvey Nichols, Dunne & Crescenzi, Brannigans and Milano's. Winters' Bar and Parker Brownes Night Club are also popular.

Schools:

One of the biggest attractions for buyers, the area has some of the most sought after schools including Wesley College, Mount Anville, St Killian's and Oaklands College.

Future development plans:

Redevelopment of the old shopping centre will provide more apartments as well as a hotel, nightclub and a bar.

On the market 9, Taney Rise, Dundrum Price: 1.2m Bedrooms: "ve Details: Set in a secluded and well-established neighbourhood in the heart of Dundrum, No 9 Taney Rise offers an opportunity to buy a beautifully presented home for a growing family.

Accommodation includes a guest WC, open plan kitchen/breakfast room, utility room, living/dining room, four bedrooms and a main bathroom. The attic has also been converted.

Agent: Lynam Auctioneers & Estate Agents, 01296 5374