Louth House Prices Rise as Demand Surges in Latest Survey
Ardee News and Sport – Louth House Prices Rise as Demand Surges in Latest Survey
The price of the average second-hand three-bed semi-detached house in County Louth has increased to €297,500, marking a 2.6% rise from €290,000 in the last three months, according to a national survey by Real Estate Alliance (REA).
Despite economic uncertainties, demand for family homes remains strong, with properties in the county selling within an average of three weeks.
Louth Market Trends & Regional Comparisons
While Louth has seen a steady increase, neighbouring Meath’s average three-bed semi price has remained unchanged at €321,500. Meanwhile, Dublin has experienced a significant surge, with the average price rising by nearly €50,000 in the past year, now standing at €558,250. Buyers are increasingly prioritizing family homes over city-centre apartments, contributing to this price hike.
“2025 has started off with a distinct lack of supply, resulting in active bidding which is translating into sale agreed prices in excess of asking prices,” said Darina Collins of REA O’Brien Collins, Drogheda.
Price Increases Across Louth
In Drogheda, the average price has risen by 1.6% this quarter, now standing at €310,000. Meanwhile, Dundalk has seen an even sharper increase, with prices rising by 3.6% to an average of €285,000.
“We have seen a huge increase in enquiries this quarter,” said Michael Gunne of REA Gunne Property, Dundalk.
First-Time Buyers & Landlords Exiting the Market
The survey indicates that 75% of purchasers in Louth were first-time buyers, highlighting the continued strong demand from this demographic. However, a notable 13% of sales this quarter were due to landlords exiting the market, continuing a trend of investor pullback from the rental sector.
Energy Ratings Driving Value
Property energy efficiency is playing an increasing role in market values. The survey found that A-rated properties commanded price premiums of up to 25% compared to similar C-rated homes, reflecting growing buyer awareness of energy costs and efficiency standards.
National Trends & Housing Supply Concerns
The REA Average House Price Index focuses on the sale prices of Ireland’s typical family homes—three-bed semis—offering an accurate reflection of the second-hand property market nationwide.
Nationally, the actual selling price of a three-bed semi rose by 2.5% in the past three months to €338,847, marking a 10% annual increase. Prices in major cities outside Dublin rose by an average of 3% in the last quarter to €355,250, with an annual rate of increase of 8%.
Large towns across the country showed the most significant annual growth, with a 2.9% increase this quarter and a 13% rise since March 2024, bringing the average price to €256,576.
However, the shortage of new home construction continues to drive price increases, particularly in rural counties. Areas such as Donegal, Kerry, Mayo, Offaly, and Roscommon have seen three-bed semi-detached house prices rise by over 23% in the past year.
Homes in commuter belt counties rose by 1.9% over the past three months to an average of €350,278, representing an annual increase of 9%.
Future Outlook
With supply constraints persisting and demand showing no signs of slowing, the Louth property market is expected to remain competitive. Buyers will need to act quickly, as properties continue to sell in record time.
Market watchers suggest that without a significant increase in housing stock, prices will likely continue their upward trajectory in the coming months.
