On sale at a discount, with rail ticket thrown in

DONABATE: FROM €195,000A four-day 'stock clearance sales event' has been organised to clear up to 20 apartments at a scheme in Donabate

ESTATE AGENTS, long known for their flowery prose, are resorting to bargain basement slogans to sell homes that are lingering on the market.

In Donabate, for instance, a four-day “stock clearance sales event” has been organised by joint agents Sherry FitzGerald New Homes and Wilson Moore, to clear up to 20 apartments remaining at the The Gallery apartment development beside the rail station with its Arrow service to the city centre.

The scheme had early success when it was launched in 2004, and around 130 units were sold either from plans or in early phases.

Now with new units still available in the final phase, prices have been cut back to 2004 levels, wiping out any value gains made by residents in the boom years of 2005 and 2006.

Developer Shelman Properties is offering 20 apartments at prices starting from €195,000 for large two-bedroom units. These are a good deal cheaper than some resales in the development – two two-beds are listed on myhome.ie at €270,000 and €290,000 respectively, though they may have better better views, or layouts.

As an added incentive for the sale, buyers will be offered the value of a five-year commuter rail ticket (€5,000 at current prices).

It’s an attractive scheme, designed by top architects Henry J Lyons, with low level blocks surrounded by well managed gardens. Most of the units have floor-to-ceiling windows to maximise the light. All homes have patios or balconies and additional storage within the development.

Two-bedroom units and penthouses range mainly from 74sq m (800sq ft) to 99sq m (1,065sq ft). Prices are from only €195,000. Three-bedroom penthouses with some 120sq m (1,290sq ft) are priced from €350,000. Four showhomes will be on view this weekend.

The Gallery, Donabate, Co Dublin

Apartments and penthouses near railway station

Joints agents: Sherry FitzGerald New Homes and Wilson Moore