House prices jump 15% in county

House prices have soared by more than 15% in county Cork in the past 12 months according to a new national survey, with a continued rise expected in 2026.

Carried out by property group, Real Estate Alliance (REA), the survey found that the average second-hand three-bed semi in county Cork rose to €267,107 in 2025, up from €231,750 at the end of 2024.

“There continues to be strong demand for both second-hand and new homes, which is reflective of an increase of new home developments coming on stream,” said Michael O’Donoghue of REA O’Donoghue & Clarke, Bantry.

He added: “In relation to the second-hand market, due to the scarcity of stock together with steady interest rates and increased competition property prices will continue to increase in 2026.”

Meanwhile in Cork city, average prices rose over the past twelve months to €410,000, up 5.1% from €390,000 in 2024.

Mr O’Donoghue continued: “Overall demand is strong for all property types throughout the city and county.

“However, it is clear that the new RPZ controls to be implemented in March are having a detrimental effect on the rental market with private landlords deciding to sell their properties.”

The survey found that across the county in the last quarter of 2025, 15% of purchasers were first-time buyers, while a total of 20% of sales in the county, and 15% in Cork city, were attributed to landlords leaving the market.

Additionally, agents in Cork city reported that the BER ratings of properties saw A-rated properties command 10% price increases in comparison to comparable C-rated properties.

The REA warned that the recent rise in landlords exiting the housing market is set to sharply increase in the first months of 2026, according to agents.