Savills has reported €267 million in prime country home sales in 2025, with transaction volumes increasing by 15.5% despite a modest softening in overall values.
For the purpose of this analysis, Savills defines the prime country homes market as residential properties located outside Dublin, north Wicklow and the main regional cities, with a transaction value of €1 million or above.
“The prime country homes market has delivered strong transaction volumes, but the composition of activity is changing,” said Cianan Duff, Divisional Director, Country Residential at Savills Ireland.
“While €1 million remains the entry point, a growing proportion of transactions are now occurring at the lower end of that range, reflecting the impact of house price inflation in recent years.”
The latest findings highlight a market that remains active but is evolving, with a growing share of transactions now concentrated at the lower end of the prime price bracket. More than half of all sales (53%) were between €1 million and €1.25 million, reflecting how sustained house price inflation has expanded the number of properties entering the “prime” category.
Regional Markets
House price growth outside Dublin continued to outpace the capital in 2025, rising by 8.1% compared to 5.5% in Dublin.
Savills said this divergence reflects improved housing delivery in Dublin acting as a constraint on price growth, while more limited supply in regional markets continues to support upward pressure on values.
Cork was the most active county, accounting for 21% of total sales, with strong demand for coastal locations. Counties within commuting distance of Dublin also remained a key focus, representing 44% of all transactions.
Irish buyers remain the cornerstone of the market, with demand largely driven by lifestyle changes and the continued shift towards hybrid working.
Analysis of Savills own sales data found that nearly half (45%) of Irish purchasers were seeking to upsize, reflecting a preference for larger homes in more rural or coastal settings within reach of urban centres.
International buyers accounted for 31% of transactions by Savills, with the majority acquiring second homes, often in more remote or scenic locations.
“Irish buyers continue to underpin the market, particularly those looking to upsize and take advantage of more flexible working patterns,” said Cianan Duff. “At the same time, international demand remains an important driver, especially in coastal and lifestyle locations.”
Savills expects activity in the prime country homes market to remain steady through 2026, albeit with a moderation in price growth at the top end.
Buyer focus is increasingly shifting towards turnkey homes with strong energy ratings, while properties requiring significant upgrades are likely to face more challenging conditions.
“Looking ahead, we expect activity to remain consistent, but pricing will become more selective,” said Cianan Duff. “Turnkey homes with strong BER ratings and good locations will continue to command a premium, while older stock may require more careful positioning.”