iDevelop.ie

Online gambling harms mortgage applications

Mon, 05 Sep 2011 08:21:38 UTC

ONLINE betting accounts are being used as reasons for refusing struggling homeowners the option of having a mortgage approved or restructured

Finance

Families may be allowed to rent their repossessed homes

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 07:52:22 UTC

FAMILIES whose homes are repossessed may be allowed to stay in their properties in return for giving up ownership and renting it from the state.

Finance

Duplex in Prague Defined by Elegance and Creativity

Wed, 31 Aug 2011 10:15:10 UTC

One seriously cool apartment

Interior Decorating

Energy leads rise in cost of living

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 13:52:01 UTC

The cost of living rose 2.7 percent in the last year, with energy and housing costs fuelling the hike, according to figures from the Central Statistics Office.

Energy, Finance

Dont forget your shovel if you want to battle bad spells

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 08:41:37 UTC

Advice for householders and businesses beleaguered by bad weather

Your Home

Utility Room Storage, Organisation and Inspiration

Tue, 09 Aug 2011 09:10:36 UTC

Designing a Utility or laundry room

Interior Decorating

Best IKEA Kitchen Designs for 2012

Fri, 05 Aug 2011 09:20:39 UTC

Sneak preview of new Kitchens from the Swedish Giant Ikea for 2012

Interior Decorating

Thousands left in lurch as payments firm folds

Fri, 05 Aug 2011 08:39:14 UTC

Thousands of euro in savings are feared lost after Dublin based Home Payments went bust. Customers advised to cancel all direct debits immediately

Finance

100 euro charge to hit 1.8m households

Wed, 27 Jul 2011 08:43:10 UTC

Households face hundreds of euro in new charges, starting with a flat-rate charge in January and separate water and property charges by 2014

Your Home

Say I do to 21 bedroom castle at 1.75m euro

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 11:37:29 UTC

Pat OHagan of Savills says that Bellingham Castle, for years one of the top wedding venues in Co Louth, may well be bought by a private group or society as a support or rehabilitation centre or for educational or business purposes. The hotel is currently closed.

Property

Mortgage holders hit again as rates top 6pc

Tue, 19 Jul 2011 08:09:05 UTC

PERMANENT TSB has increased its variable rates for the third time this year in a move that has seen some of its mortgage costs top 6pc for the first time in three years.

Finance, Property

Selfish truth behind the rise in gas and electricity prices

Mon, 18 Jul 2011 13:31:55 UTC

Power companies are keeping quiet about how much they will profit from impending price increases that will add injury to the insult of what semi-state chiefs pay themselves

Energy

Only 2pc of householders plan to move in next year

Fri, 01 Jul 2011 11:32:26 UTC

New research has found that only a tiny percentage of people are planning to buy a home in the next year, as plunging property values and a lack of bank lending keep mortgage holders tied to their current homes

Finance

Furnishing for the first time

Tue, 28 Jun 2011 15:35:48 UTC

Here are some essential tips on how to kit out your new home. Also has some good pointers for those refurbing an existing home.

Interior Decorating

Vintage Buys

Tue, 28 Jun 2011 13:49:21 UTC

Youve trawled flea markets and vintage stores for those one off finds, but what do you do with them when you get home

Interior Decorating

Falling house prices a global phenomenon

Tue, 21 Jun 2011 08:12:03 UTC

Globally, the housing market has weakened further, with prices stalled or sliding downwards in the first quarter of this year, according to the latest global house price index report from international property consultancy Knight Frank.

Property

Quaint cottages in ghost estate with a good spirit

Thu, 16 Jun 2011 15:18:46 UTC

Not all of Irelands ghost estates are half built and hopeless. Some of them have charm, such as this scheme in rural Waterford.

News, Property

Bord Gais warns of higher energy costs by year-end

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 11:57:58 UTC

Following on from the first warnings in March of this year, Bord Gais now come out with the facts and figures to back up the proposed increase in Gas prices coming into Autumn and Winter, with further bad news regarding electricity prices dues to the amount of Power Stations using gas to generate electricity.

Energy, News, Your Home|

Irish Shoppers spend 2 million euro a week at IKEA

Wed, 08 Jun 2011 16:35:07 UTC

Pre-tax profits of 11.4 million euro is not something that we would immediately think of as being difficult trading conditions but that's how IKEA have described the past year in Ireland. It appears the Irish have certainly taken to the cult of flat pack furniture.

News, Interior Decorating

Borrowers in arrears to provide statement

Tue, 07 Jun 2011 16:47:35 UTC

This process is certainly going to force homeowners in arrears to take a long hard look at their current outgoings with a forensic approach to analyzing their expenditure, but the success of the process will be entirely dependent on honesty when completing the forms. The upside of this process is that it can help disspell the notion that some homeowners are simply choosing to not meet payments, and that is only a cold comfort at best!

News, Finance, Your Home

Up to 1.4 million people facing water cut-offs this summer

Fri, 03 Jun 2011 16:33:46 UTC

It may be very hard to believe considering the weather we have had for the past month (May 2011) but 1 byproduct of the predicted good weather is the proposed introduction of water restrictions. Some sources will use these as a further justification of the proposed water charge but the fact still remains that more water is lost from reservoir to tap than is ever wasted in the home.

News, Your Home, Gardening

Households must pay flat-rate fee for water until 2014

Wed, 01 Jun 2011 11:15:19 UTC

Annual charge likely to be 175 euro until meters installed - so while everyone is distracted with the potential of a second bailout, Minister for the Environment, Phil Hogan announces this gem. Little less than a month ago, Minister Phil Hogan was telling us that there'd be no fixed Water Rate fee and that there would be no introduction of a domestic charge until meters had been installed. So here's another U-turn as a flat rate charge is to introduced next year and it looks like the installation of meters won't be completed until near the end of 2014.

News, Your Home

Warm weather predicted for June Bank Holiday

Tue, 31 May 2011 16:40:03 UTC

Just wanted to highlight some good news coming up to the June Bank Holiday and if other reports are to be believed (and we sincerely hope they are) the good weather will continue through June and July - time to get out and enjoy the garden!

News, Gardening

Claims falsely recorded against customers in insurance blunder

Tue, 31 May 2011 16:18:41 UTC

Tens of thousands of customers have had claims falsely registered against them on an internal insurance industry database, leading to fears of overcharging across the industry.

News, Finance, Your Home

3 million euro a week spent on refitting homes

Tue, 31 May 2011 15:46:07 UTC

This report shows that there's been a high uptake on the Government's Better Energy Homes Programme.

News, Energy, Your Home

Irish 'Sky Garden' wins Gold at RHS Chelsea Show

Mon, 30 May 2011 10:05:08 UTC

Diarmuid Gavin's Avatar inspired 'Sky Garden' wins Gold at 2011 RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

News, Gardening

Bloom in the Park Competition Winner

Mon, 30 May 2011 09:27:58 UTC

Thanks to all our entrants to the Bloom in the Park Competition, however there could only be 1 winner.

Gardening, iDevelop

'Free' digital service will cost up to 100 euro

Fri, 27 May 2011 17:11:44 UTC

If you're with Sky or UPC the forthcoming changes to the Irish TV transmission won't affect you - but for those affected you will have to plan for the change over and ensure you either have a compatible 'Digital Ready' TV or get yourselves a 'Set-Top' Box. We can attest that the picture quality is a big improvement on analogue and we're certainly looking forward to seeing the Magners League and Champions League Finals in HD tomorrow evening! We're also aware that not everyone will be able to afford the cost of the Set=Top boxes at around �100 or certainly not a new TV at �400 or more perhaps.

Your Home, News

Mortgage Protection Premiums falling

Fri, 27 May 2011 16:49:42 UTC

It may never be 'Rocket Science' to suggest shopping around for the best price on any purchase and while a 126 euro per year on the Mortgage Protection Premium may not sound like a lot, it can certainly add up over the lifetime of a Mortgage. So start shopping around!

Finance, Your Home

Home Energy Grants cut by 20pc under Better Energy Programme

Tue, 24 May 2011 09:58:08 UTC

You could say a slightly sneaky or underhand move by the SEAI as they close off the Home Energy Saving (HES) scheme and open the Better Energy Homes (BEH), in essence doing the same thing but reducing the grants available by 20pc. The SEAI will in most cases rightly point to reduced costs involved in getting the work warranting a reduced level of support grants but the homeowners who may have stopped their application to HES in anticipation of BEH will rightly feel aggrieved.

Energy, News, Your Home

Row over public's 'exclusion' from Gavin's garden

Fri, 20 May 2011 13:29:16 UTC

How very un-RHS like! There's a row brewing ahead of this year's RHS Chelsea Flower Show as Irish Garden Designer, Diarmuid Gavin's, Avatar-inspired Show Garden won't be open to visitors to the show as its centre-piece will be suspended 82 feet in the air from a crane.

Gardening

Number of homeowners in arrears soars to 50,000

Fri, 20 May 2011 11:14:15 UTC

Regular reports over the past 18 months or 2 years show this figure steadily increasing but in all that time there's still been no mention of any plan to halt the increase, to deal with the problems being faced by Irish Homeowners that's what we want/need to hear. Not to oversimplify the issue but in a nutshell Irish Homeowners are bailing out the banks, will through future taxes be paying for the sovereign debt which has been taken on by the Government from the banks. So what we need is a solution that suits not vested interests or even the economy but society, so Enda, Eamonn, Richard, Leo, Michael, Joan et al - it's over to you. Rant over!

Finance, Your Home

Nama to offer investors, home buyers incentives

Fri, 20 May 2011 10:46:49 UTC

There could be an element of flogging a dead horse to these proposals in an attempt to get the property market moving or perhaps more accurately they seem to tackle the wrong problem - it would appear that any barriers to the property market recovering would include fears over employment security, the apparent reluctance by banks to approve mortgages and not fears over further price drops of the order of 50 or 60 per cent that we have witnessed over the past 4 years.

Finance, Property

170,000 homes using TV aerials unaware signal to end in 2012

Wed, 18 May 2011 09:26:25 UTC

If you're with Sky or UPC the forthcoming changes to the Irish TV transmission won't affect you but it seems there is still a large number of households unaware of the impact the move from analogue to digital will have for their TV reception. While preparing for the changeover, we would advise that if you have bought your TV in last 2/3 years then you may not need a 'Set Top' box as the TV may already be digital ready. Keep an eye out for our upcoming Feature on Saorview.

Your Home

Calls for Legal Protection for Debtors

Sun, 15 May 2011 14:01:10 UTC

A week ago very few could say who Edmund Honohan is, but some glimmers of hope for indebted homeowners in comments by The Master of the High Court over the past week. Highlighting that it is a criminal offence for institutions to demand repayment so frequently as to cause "alarm, distress, or humiliation" to borrowers. Also, he highights that "existing laws provided a measure of protection for debtors in difficult situations and warned that banks should not expect to have it all their own way when pursuing debtors" and finally, and perhaps of greater interest "If we drill down and find clear evidence that any transaction was in reality a sort of joint venture with the bank, the law will insist that both parties share the losses"

News, Finance

National Property price register on the way

Fri, 13 May 2011 17:17:18 UTC

On the day the CSO releases its first Property Register figures, the Government announces that it intends to create a National Property Price Register as requested previously by NAMA and the IPAV.

News, Property

Wanted: A chair fit for a President

Fri, 13 May 2011 14:16:04 UTC

A bit like our advice for Ruairi Quinn and the School Restoration/Renovation programme, all we can say to the OPW is get onto iDevelop.ie and save as we've all the Furniture Suppliers, Interior Designers, etc that they could need. Though as an aside the current Vice Regal Throne looks in good nick and was good enough for the past 8 Presidents, so why the need to change?

Interior Decorating

Have a BLOOM-ing June Bank Holiday!

Fri, 13 May 2011 13:34:07 UTC

We're lucky enough to have 2 tickets to win for Bloom in the Park, just answer 3 simple questions. The closing date for entries is Friday 27th May. Good Luck!

Gardening, iDevelop

Homeowners to get grants of over 5000 euro

Thu, 12 May 2011 11:04:20 UTC

Some potentially good news for Irish Homeowners from the Govenment's Job Initiative with the announcement that grants will be available to make their homes more energy efficient. Covering activities such as installing insulation, heating controls and utilizing 'greener' appliances, they should certainly help reduce the cost of heating homes. One other interesting proposed feature to be introduced is that any work could be paid for upfront by your energy supplier and homeowners then pay back over time. So we wait with interest for the full details from the SEAI on Monday and we'll have a full breakdown for you on iDevelop.ie

Energy, Finance, Your Home

No water levy until meters installed

Tue, 10 May 2011 16:34:30 UTC

Not a U-Turn by the Government but instead Minister Hogan says that reports from last week suggesting a fixed rate water fee was to be implemented are inaccurate. He says that water metering hasn't even been discussed at Cabinet which is surprising considering, 1. the government has said that the installation of meters will be a source of employment and 2. some form of recoupment of the costs of providing water has been agreed as part of the EU/IMF bailout. Perhaps most importantly at least if a decision is made then Irish homeowners will know what lies in store for them rather than further speculation.

Finance, Your Home

Jobs Initiative to include funding for 'Shovel-Ready' School Projects

Mon, 09 May 2011 10:10:00 UTC

There will be more than just shovels involved as it looks like an increased programme of school refurbishment and renovation projects looks like getting the green light tomorrow. Our advice to Ruairi Quinn is to get onto iDevelop.ie and get the best prices for all the work through our 'Get A Quote' system, or if he doesn't have time to do it himself to get someone in the Dept of Education as we think it makes sense to get value money and the only place to that is on iDevelop.ie

iDevelop, News

No Ferrero Rocher from the German Ambassador for RTE

Mon, 09 May 2011 09:13:34 UTC

Wives all the over the country breath a sigh of relief as Fair City gets planning permission to continue filming on its current set location for 3 more years, though their husbands and by the sounds of it, the German ambassador may not be that happy about it, for differing reasons. All we can say is An Bord Pleanala and Dublin City Council have a lot to answer for!

News

Buyers take a 1 million euro 'bite of the D4 cherry'

Fri, 06 May 2011 11:13:55 UTC

Midnight madness in D4 as a million plus in sales is confirmed within the first 2 minutes. Prices for these apartments are down 65 per cent from the peak but still ranging from 325,000 to 370,000 euro these are pretty pricy bargains

Property

Former Nazi 'Safe House' for sale in Templeogue

Thu, 05 May 2011 16:49:32 UTC

The story of this house would certainly make viewing the house worth it just to hear it from the Estate Agent - so a German SS officer parachutes into County Meath, walks to Dublin in uniform - stopping at a Garda Station to ask for directions - all part of a plan to lead an IRA backed Nazi invasion of Ireland and so attack Britain - You can't make this stuff up!

Property

Bord Gais to help customers in arrears.

Thu, 05 May 2011 09:05:46 UTC

Some news and comments from Bord Gais annual report - their turnover is up 12 per cent and have recorded profits of 120 million euro - which is of no interest to the average Irish Homeowner. However, they have once again highlighted that a rise in gas prices is on the way with news on the way in October. The area of immediate concern surrounds arrears, Bord Gais now employ a staff of 90 in credit control and have made provisions of 26.4 million euro in the last year for bad debts - this should not be confused as debt forgiveness as reported elsewhere or that costumers have had their arrears slate wiped clean, more that Bord Gais are continuing to work with customers to get all arrears paid but have made provision for bad debts rather than taking a large hit at some point in the future.

Energy, News, Your Home

Tax relief for 'boom' mortgage holders delayed

Wed, 04 May 2011 11:01:39 UTC

We've highlighted a few other 'broken promises' by the Government recently and at the start of April highlighted the lack of detail provided related to 1 of the Governments key pre-election proposals (and probably vote getters) namely, Tax Relief for householders who purchased at the peak of the market, as no date had been mentioned for its introduction. It now looks like it will be no date in 2011 due to concerns over its implementation such as eligibility and cost.

Finance, Your Home

Over 8,000 switch electricity suppliers weekly

Wed, 04 May 2011 10:39:57 UTC

Having more than 1 option in relation to energy supply is a relatively new development in Ireland so it should come as no surprise especially in the current economic conditions that homeowners are so willing to switch in search of a better deal. With proposed price increases on the way the good news for homeowners includes the low numbers who have experienced problems switching (though it does happen) and the introduction by the CER of initiatives such as customer education campaigns, the provision of detailed consumer information, a cost comparison facility, etc to help making the right switching decision easier.

Energy, Your Home

Investors snap up 'bankable' artworks

Wed, 04 May 2011 09:48:51 UTC

If you had the budget then some of the artworks mentioned in this article could be how you decide to decorate your home but considering some of the estimates mentioned, the only place some of these paintings/artworks will be viewed is inside a bank vault.

Interior Decorating

Households face fixed water charge after Fine Gael U-turn

Wed, 04 May 2011 08:37:04 UTC

Another 'broken' election promise from the Government. We know that water metering is inevitable but at least the proposals whereby charges would be based on consumption and could be justified as a means of reducing wastage could be seen in most respects fair but the fact that estimates now say it could take 4 years to install the meters means there's now a change of tactic, to no benefit of Irish Homeowners. Our advice would be to get on with the work (it's been proposed for the best part of 2/3 years) and implement a proper/adequate system and not another seat of the pant, what's the most convenient solution.

News, Your Home

How much is your mortgage tracker deal worth?

Mon, 02 May 2011 19:38:32 UTC

The Independent Mortgage Advisers Federation (IMAF) have done their sums on the mortgage pay off offer from Permanent TSB and other mortgage lenders doesn't seem to be adding up

Finance, Property, Your Home

Loss of faith in banks drives sale of home safes

Fri, 29 Apr 2011 11:49:12 UTC

A hardly surprising report on the increase in sales of safes but homeowners need to be sure that all their home security measures are adequate as they could be making themselves a bigger target for burglars. Though a home safe is definitely a much better alternative to a story we read today on a man who turned up in hospital with 60,000 euro 'wrapped' around his body!

News, Your Home

Planning cost 1,000 jobs, says group

Fri, 29 Apr 2011 11:24:52 UTC

A damning indictment of the Planning Process in Ireland as Spanish Wind Company decides not to set up in Ireland due to 'inconsistencies' in the Planning Process, worse again that they didn't even bother to apply! Further compounding the issue is the fact is that the Government views the Renewable Energy sector as a growing source of employment into the future.

Energy, News

National Consumer Agency (NCA) launches mortgage calculator

Fri, 29 Apr 2011 10:57:27 UTC

A simple calculator to give homeowners some idea of the level of monthly repayments they could face over the lifetime of their mortgage - you should note that mortgage rates are almost certain to rise so be sure to check a few higher rates than are currently available.

News, Property

House price index will exclude any cash sales

Fri, 29 Apr 2011 09:58:50 UTC

We mentioned the forthcoming House Price Index from the CSO yesterday and some issues which had been highlighted with it, today a few more have come to light as its appears that some sales will not be included (cash) and will not include figures from all Mortgage Providers. This could be a very useful tool to help set realistic prices in the Irish Property Market but there seems to be a few too many if onlys...

Property

A home fit for Prince William and Kate Middleton

Thu, 28 Apr 2011 14:53:11 UTC

If you didn't know it, Prince William and Kate Middleton are getting married tomorrow, the wedding will be unlike any since Charles and Diana's almost 30 years ago. The 1 thing in common with every wedding is that once they're married they will need somewhere to live, so where will the happy couple be living?

News

Growing number of Emigrant Landlords

Thu, 28 Apr 2011 10:39:57 UTC

Due to emigration we're seeing an increased number of landlords who are based abroad - this type of arrangement has tax implications for Landlords and Tenants.

Property, Your Home

NAMA wants property-sale register to reveal prices

Thu, 28 Apr 2011 09:13:11 UTC

The to be published House Price Index from the CSO will give some broad information on the trends in the Irish Property market but there are calls for greater detail with actual prices to be published as well.

Property

Mortgage Market 10 per cent of peak

Wed, 27 Apr 2011 08:24:44 UTC

It's hard to see when/where the Irish Property market or Home Construction in general will start to pick up as the essential finance in terms of mortgages continues to be denied to first-time buyers as between 60 - 80 per cent of applications are being turned down at the moment.

Finance, Property

Snap up your own island for the price of a house

Tue, 26 Apr 2011 10:27:10 UTC

Buying an island seems to be the preserve of the rich and famous, though may it prove difficult to get a mortgage for these and planning permission for a home on these islands would probably be impossible to get, the 1 guarantee would be there'd be no problems with your neighbours!

Property

ESB see the light with budget payment plan for those in arrears

Fri, 22 Apr 2011 12:17:08 UTC

'De-energised' is the new term being used by the ESB (soon to be ESB Electric Ireland) for people who have had their electricity supply disconnected. It's insensitive, impersonal and smacks of marketing speak gone bonkers, let's hope that the rebranding of the company doesn't throw up any further buzz terms to try and devalue what is a traumatic experience for those involved. On a brighter note, the ESB have now seen sense (apparently after some intervention by Pat Rabitte) and are allow customers in arrears access to cheaper electricity rates. There has been much less fanfare of this move as you have to 'opt-in' to take advantage.

Energy, News, Your Home

Shed of the Year 2011

Thu, 21 Apr 2011 11:59:56 UTC

The Garden Shed is usually a place for storing gardening equipment, perhaps a lawnmower or a bicycle(s) but for some enthusiasts it can become so much more, though for some it mostly becomes a bar/pub. Entries close on Monday 16th May 2011 and they're expecting a 'Shed-load' of entries (apologies)

Gardening

Rise in complaints about mortgages

Thu, 21 Apr 2011 09:26:59 UTC

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the number of complaints relating to mortgages and especially banks treatment of customers on tracker mortgages has increased by 41 per cent in the 2nd half of 2010. However, it most certainly pays to be nice as the Financial Ombudsman awarded 2.6 million euro in compensation.

Finance, News

Northern Ireland gas prices to increase next month

Thu, 21 Apr 2011 08:59:46 UTC

Hikes in Gas Prices are on the way in North Ireland within the next month, with an increase of almost 40 per cent, which is quite astounding. Customers in the Republic also have increases on the way though not as soon and hopefully not as high either. The best thing we can suggest is to contact Build and Improve about our Home Insulation or Home Heating Upgrade Packages so your home is prepared for next winter and help you save on your Energy bills. Don't forget to ask about our payment plan.

Energy, Your Home

Energy saving light bulbs 'contain cancer causing chemicals'

Wed, 20 Apr 2011 16:04:03 UTC

It seems nothing is safe these days, with warnings that energy saving light bulbs can contain cancer causing chemicals. Experts say that further investigation is required but to be safe don't break the glass at any stage as the bulbs contain a max limit of 5mg of Mercury which can escape if the bulb doesn't remain intact.

News, Your Home

Cut-price homes go under the hammer - how it went

Wed, 20 Apr 2011 10:32:10 UTC

We highlighted this auction last Friday (15th April) and by the sounds of things interest was very high. The high number of 'cash' sales points to the fact that only those who can afford it could take advantage of the 'deals' on offer and so this sale doesn't give an accurate reflection of prices or possible interest in the Irish Property Market. Some of the price drops are quite staggering with a 3-Bedroom semi-detached in Mullingar selling for just 30,000 euro and a city centre penthouse valued at 1.3 million just over 3 years ago going for 345,000 euro. Anyways, whether the prices were good or bad, they're doing it all over again on 7th July with perhaps as many as 200 properties going under the hammer then.

Property

500,000 Euro deal struck as house is YouTube hit

Wed, 20 Apr 2011 09:59:24 UTC

It's hard to say whether posting the video on YouTube had anything to do with the sale of the house, though this seller seems to think so. YouTube certainly does offer an add dynamic to selling property (anything for that matter) as you can give a complete tour of the house and give more detail/depth than pictures can. We'll just wait for the rush from Daft, etc to integrate YouTube with their sites in the very near future.

News, Property

Warning on 'All-Risk' Insurance

Wed, 20 Apr 2011 09:06:35 UTC

We suppose the message here is not to assume anything and as a result to check the fine print as there's a good chance you may not have the cover that you think you have especially concerning some high value items and how they are covered or not as the case may be.

Finance, Your Home

Bloom in the Park 2011

Tue, 19 Apr 2011 15:04:29 UTC

Bloom is Ireland's RHS Flower Shows such as Chelsea, Hampton Court Palace and Tatton Park. It has been held over the June Bank Holiday for the past 4 years in the Phoenix Park in Dublin.

Gardening

Variable-rate homeowners spared hike

Tue, 19 Apr 2011 09:03:10 UTC

They give a little and they take a little as AIB confirm that its tracker rate will be increased by 0.25pc from today as will the rates on deposits. No change has been made to Variable Rates or loan-to-value which are 'under review'.

Finance, Your Home

Caution urged over Permanent TSB's tracker mortgage deal

Tue, 19 Apr 2011 08:27:48 UTC

As we pointed out yesterday this deal from Permanent TSB is probably only something you should take advantage of if you can afford to. There are certainly some circumstances where it will suit a homeowner to take advantage of this offer but perhaps the biggest benefit is the 'psychological advantage in paying off a mortgage early'. The 1 thing for certain is that PTSB are desperate to reduce the value of their Tracker Mortgages.

Finance, Your Home

Mortgage holders to get 10pc bonus for paying lump sum off trackers

Mon, 18 Apr 2011 09:00:18 UTC

If you view this as a saving scheme rather than something that's going to cost you money then the 10 per cent rate on offer is much better than any investmemt rates available at the moment but a bit like getting access to ESB's reduced rates only those who can afford to will be able to take advantage of the offer.

Finance, Your Home

Renovation/Interior Design Ideas - Amanzi Villa

Fri, 15 Apr 2011 13:46:39 UTC

This Villa blurs the line between what is interior starts and the exterior ends which unfortunately makes it totally impractical for the Irish climate. Also if you were staying here it would be a tough decision between staying to look at the scenery or getting out to look at the Villa.

Interior Decorating

Households to face higher bin charges as landfill levies rise

Fri, 15 Apr 2011 10:31:37 UTC

More fees on the way for Irish Homeowners

Your Home

Cut-price homes go under the hammer

Fri, 15 Apr 2011 09:50:10 UTC

Potentially something for everyone at this auction in the Shelbourne Hotel and they're planning for a big turnout as the auction is being broadcast to a nearby pub. This auction will give us an idea of where the Irish Property market really is in terms of prices.

Property

8 ways to ease the pain of soaring home insurance bills

Thu, 14 Apr 2011 11:18:37 UTC

Home Insurance Premiums are on the way up, here's 8 tips to help you get a lower premium when the time comes to renew.

Finance, Your Home

Make Savings on your Home Insurance at your Credit Union

Thu, 14 Apr 2011 10:19:54 UTC

If you're a member of your local Credit Union then you could be making a big saving on not just Home Insurance but on Motor, Travel and Health. See how this writer saved with his local Credit Union, Knocklyon Credit Union in South County Dublin and then check Le Cheile for more details.

Finance, Your Home

Bank of Ireland to consider writing off Mortgage Debt

Thu, 14 Apr 2011 08:49:39 UTC

In a rush to not be left behind Bank of Ireland have now come out to say that they will consider some type of debt forgiveness for mortgage holder but again there's very little detail and it seems to be more a case of sounding good, hopefully there will be something more concrete in the not too distant future.

Finance, News

Home Improvements on a Budget

Wed, 13 Apr 2011 13:24:10 UTC

To get the best prices for all your Home Improvement work use iDirectory and our 'Get A Quote' system to get quotes quickly and easily from Tradesmen and Suppliers local to you or look at our range of Build and Improve Packages for some ideas.

Finance, Interior Decorating, Your Home

Home insurance costs to rise after 224m euro winter payout

Wed, 13 Apr 2011 11:28:04 UTC

So less than 4 years after paying out dividends from profits of over 2.4 billion euro, the insurance companies are crying poverty over payments of 224 million euro for an extreme bit of weather and Irish Homeowners have to foot the bill for them to maintain their profit margins. Why wasn't provision made for higher than expected payouts when profits were at record levels?

News, Finance, Your Home

NAMA may finance property deals

Wed, 13 Apr 2011 10:41:18 UTC

NAMA aims to diversify or as Frank Daly puts it, help kick-start the Irish property market, in partnership with the Irish Banks. So they're aiming to sell back the properties they've bought from the banks with finance provided by them and the banks? Doesn't sound messy at all!

News, Property

How Debt Forgiveness might work

Wed, 13 Apr 2011 09:47:20 UTC

Just a bit more detail on Debt Forgiveness, how it might work and what the implications are for borrowers looking to enter into an agreement with their lender. Unfortunately it doesn't seem to be as simple as forgive and forget for Irish Homeowners.

Finance, Your Home

AIB may write off debt on some troubled mortgages

Wed, 13 Apr 2011 09:16:49 UTC

Some potential good news from lots of the bad coming from AIB yesterday with the announcement that AIB is considering debt forgiveness for mortgage holders who cannot repay loans. Though Debt Forgiveness is highlighted as 1 of the 'possibilities' being considered, there is very little detail or concrete information. Let us hope these are not false crumbs of comfort being offered in a 'bad' news day.

Finance, News, Your Home

The ESB fights back with its own switch offers

Mon, 11 Apr 2011 09:49:10 UTC

The Energy Price War could be turning into a 'Dirty War' with some of the claims and counter-claims from ESB, Airtricity and Bord Gais on what they have to offer and what their competitors have got wrong in their figures. This article ends with a good breakdown on what you need to switch and how savings can be made which is a useful reference for anyone looking to switch/make savings.

Energy, News, Your Home

Renovation/Interior Design Ideas - Gatsby House

Mon, 11 Apr 2011 09:10:24 UTC

Gatsby House in Ardara. The bedroom names suggest they are inspired by Hollywood Icons - Cary Grant, Grace Kelly, Judy Garland and Rita Hayworth. The whole house has a classical, elegant look - it seems no expense has been spared but details like the stenciling in the dining room as well as the 'quotes' which appear in most rooms are not expensive to replicate in your home.

Interior Decorating

Renovation/Interior Design Ideas - Secret Cottage and Honey Cottage

Fri, 08 Apr 2011 11:53:52 UTC

At iDevelop.ie we try to bring you any amazing designs/homes we find or that are submitted to us, recently we found a site called welcomebeyond.com where you can find some really amazing homes around the world to stay in. These properties have some very interesting architecture and interior decor. Even better they have a few Irish Properties based in Donegal, the transformation these properties have undergone is definitely worth a look and may give you some ideas

Interior Decorating

No date for measures to help homeowners

Fri, 08 Apr 2011 09:29:55 UTC

Campaigning in Poetry and Governing in Prose as the saying goes - like many recent election promises this one seems like a good idea but lacks any sort of detail on who will be eligible, how it will be funded and so there's no idea of when it will be in place. The 1 thing for certain is that the introduction of these measures will see the abolition of Mortgage Interest Relief for first time buyers.

Finance, Your Home

Six ways to save a few euros as belts tighten

Fri, 08 Apr 2011 09:04:50 UTC

The term 'Household Austerity Plan' may sound quite severe but in the words of 1 former taoiseach - we're living way beyond our means - and even if this isn't the case with the proposed rises in Interest Rates along with energy hikes in the autumn, it's clear that every cent counts. Here's 6 useful tips we found to help you save a few euros.

Finance, Your Home

ECB raises interest rate by 0.25pc

Thu, 07 Apr 2011 15:45:16 UTC

Just the final confirmation, the ECB raises it's interest rate by 0.25pc and the banks will be passing the increase on to you. In a slightly stealth announcement Bank of Ireland will be raising their fixed rates anything between 0.7pc and 1.3pc.

Finance, News, Your Home

Dublin luxury property prices lowest in world

Thu, 07 Apr 2011 10:47:42 UTC

We think this could apply to all Irish property so the news that Luxury Property in Dublin is lowest in the world is hardly the biggest surprise ever. Though some of the prices being paid elsewhere in the world are truly jaw dropping!

Property

Water charges shelved until meters in place

Thu, 07 Apr 2011 10:07:57 UTC

We're still waiting on full details of how charges will be imposed but the things we now know is that the process of installing water meters will be getting underway next year and will create employment for around 1,800 people and that any charges won't be implemented until 2013 at the earliest.

News, Your Home

ECB prepares to hit homeowners with rate hikes

Thu, 07 Apr 2011 08:53:49 UTC

A day long awaited or more appropriately anticipated looks to have come, a rise of 0.25pc is expected - all we can do is wait and see - the 1 thing we're sure is that a considerable amount of column inches and radio time will be given over to the outcome of the European Central Bank Governing Council meeting.

Finance, News, Your Home

ESB resists pressure to give cuts to customers in arrears

Wed, 06 Apr 2011 09:42:30 UTC

The ESB have certainly managed to get themselves more than a few column inches this week! Much like issues over debt forgiveness for those in Mortgage Arrears is a divisive issue between those paying their mortgage and those who are in arrears, differing opinions are also likely to arise here between those who are paying their electricity bills on time and those in arrears. Though the fact that the ESB cannot identify new customers who are 'debt-hopping' from other providers and will be eligible for reduced rates does weaken their positiion to exclude their current customers who are in arrears.

Energy, News, Your Home

Household charge may replace TV licence fee

Wed, 06 Apr 2011 09:05:30 UTC

The Government may consider the introduction of a universal household charge to replace the TV licence and take account of those using computers and mobile phones for television viewing.

News, Your Home

Make Fortnightly rather than Monthly Mortgage Repayments and save thousands

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 09:44:32 UTC

Make potentially big savings over the life of your mortgage by switching to fortnightly rather than monthly repayments, making a total over the year of 26 fortnightly payments as opposed to 12 monthly ones, effectively equalling an extra month's payment each year, this comes off the capital and reduces the term of the mortgage.

Finance

ESB under pressure over ban on cheap rates for people in arrears

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 09:11:24 UTC

As highlighted yesterday there's more than 1 flaw in the ESB's (or should we say Electric Ireland's) proposed new pricing as pressure comes on to allow consumers in arrears to have access to cheaper electricity rates while they are dealing with their arrears. Also if the ESB's new proposals are too successful they could be banned from offering discounts if they go back above 60pc market share. It also sounds like the Energy Regulator needs to get themselves in gear as the new phenomenon of 'debt-hopping' with switchers leaving their debts behind them which are then added to the bills of those who are paying their bills. The proposal that the Commission for Energy Regulation should bar those who had arrears from leaving the supplier they owed money to, certainly has merit.

Energy

Watchdog urges consumers not to rush into switch to ESB

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 08:42:38 UTC

ESB's announcement yesterday of proposed savings, has stirred up a real hornet's nest as according to the NCA its a bit like comparing apples and oranges when trying to analyse the prices that each energy company has on offer with prices based on differing kilowatts of usage per year for both electricity and gas. Freedom of contract in energy supply should make the switching between suppliers an easy and regulary used option as consumers look for the best prices, however switching energy suppliers is not always an easy or pain-free process. Hopefully the Energy Regulator will compel Energy Companies to compare pricing on a standardised usage level so things can become a little clearer!

Energy

ESB customers to save 190 euro a year

Mon, 04 Apr 2011 09:15:50 UTC

It's not all good news with warnings of a 'significant' price hike for gas in the autumn and perhaps the people who might need them most 'frozen out' as those in arrears don't qualify for the new rates. Also these offers come with conditions such as receiving electricity and gas from the ESB, paying by direct debit and receiving bills by email but at least it shows that savings can be made for those who are price concious and prepared to look around for the best deal.

Energy, Finance, News

Borrowers to be rigorously stress tested

Fri, 01 Apr 2011 13:04:35 UTC

There's certainly an element of closing the door after the horse has bolted about these proposals but they have some merit when/if the market ever starts to stabilize.

Finance, News

10.8pc plunge in Irish house prices

Fri, 01 Apr 2011 12:52:48 UTC

Oh to own some property in Hong Kong, Latvia or Israel - now that's a varied list of potential holiday destinations - as property prices rose in each of these 3 countries by between 16pc - 20pc, while prices here drop by nearly that amount!

News, Property

Property prices now down 51pc from peak of boom

Fri, 01 Apr 2011 12:40:25 UTC

Telling us things we already new, can't even say its a slow news day with all the articles on the Bank Stress Tests to comb over - the astounding thing here we suppose is the percentage drops in little over 5 years

News, Property

Get on property ladder before year-end and you'll save thousands with tax relief

Fri, 01 Apr 2011 12:17:52 UTC

Any decision about getting on the Property Ladder needs to be balanced against any further reduction in house prices with the savings to be made with the current exemption to Stamp Duty now available and availability of lower interest rates at the moment.

Finance, Property

Irish Nationwide Increases Variable Rate

Thu, 31 Mar 2011 17:10:41 UTC

Some 'good' news to finish the day, interesting that this gets announced while the full details of the Irish Bank Stress tests are being revealed..

Finance, News, Your Home

Internet Fuhrer-y over house that looks like Hitler

Wed, 30 Mar 2011 16:46:47 UTC

If you have any other strange looking buildings that you'd like to share with us then please email feedback[@]idevelop.ie and if we get enough then we'll get them all up in a blog together.

News, Property

1-in-3 not shopping around for best deal

Wed, 30 Mar 2011 09:52:46 UTC

We missed this article at the start of the week and by the sounds of it a large proportion of you (the Irish people) are missing out on a great deal when shopping. At iDevelop.ie we couldn't make it easier for you just use our 'Get A Quote' to get the best price for any work you're doing around the home or if you see a product you like in iProducts use the 'Quote Me' button to add it to your shopping basket and get the best price from the suppliers we have listed throughout Ireland.

iDevelop, News

Knock-on effect of higher oil prices for Irish Homeowners

Tue, 29 Mar 2011 10:46:46 UTC

We at iDevelop.ie perhaps can't help with the impact of oil prices on your travel arrangements but our site is full of hints and ideas on how you can make the most of your garden for growing food, use our 'Get A Quote' system to get the best prices for Home Heating Oil or Natural Gas.

Finance, Gardening, News

NCC call for levies on property and water

Tue, 29 Mar 2011 09:37:07 UTC

Well the Government gives with 1 hand (Mortgage Relief unlikely to be scrapped) and takes with the other, it very much looks like Water Charges and a Property Tax is on the way so all we're waiting on are details on how these 'levies' will be implemented as the Government continues to 'widen' the tax basis. The term blood from a stone certainly springs to mind!

Finance, News

Mortgage relief unlikely to be scrapped

Tue, 29 Mar 2011 08:55:07 UTC

This might be 1 promise that you will be happy politicians don't fullfil - Mortgage Interest Relief for 1st time buyers is on its way out but looks like it will be here until the end of 2011 rather than end of June.

Finance, News, Property, Your Home

Warning to check for radon levels

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 13:30:02 UTC

These homeowners had a lucky escape in Co. Waterford. Radon Gas is linked to 200 deaths per year in Ireland, see a list of Radon Testing Companies in iDevelop.ie or send them a quote request to see how much a Radon Test will cost.

News

Save money on your home bills - Insurance & Natural Gas

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 10:15:53 UTC

Here's some sample savings you can make. For more options see iDirectory for a list of Home Insurance Providers or your local Natural Gas Suppliers.

Energy, Finance, Your Home

Smart energy project attracts foreign firms

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 09:53:01 UTC

A smart innovative approach to creating Renewable Energy and additional support jobs in a small community. For Renewable Energy for your home see the Eco-building Products in iProducts.

Energy, News

Most zoned land not fit for building, says Nama chief

Fri, 25 Mar 2011 14:36:49 UTC

Another damning indictment of previous planning decisions take by County Councils around Ireland, this also seems to cast doubt over the ability of NAMA to make a profit from the development portfolio under its control.

News, Property

Get involved with Earth Hour 2011

Fri, 25 Mar 2011 10:05:20 UTC

Earth Hour has quickly become a global event from when it started in 2007 in Australia. This year's Earth Hour is scheduled for Saturday 26th March between 8:30pm and 9:30pm, which isn't great timing for anyone watching the Ireland vs. Macedonia match! This year's Earth Hour is about "Going Beyond the Hour", it's not just idealistic, it's practical - saving energy means saving money. So look at what you can do to save energy and save money in your home - we recommend simple steps such as installing insulation or perhaps incorporate eco products into your home to make it more energy efficient.

Energy, News

Call for test cases to claim 'reckless lending' compensation

Wed, 23 Mar 2011 17:26:31 UTC

This will be an interesting test case but you have to wonder even if it is successful, what would the judgement be - Would the state have to pay compensation to homeowners? Who would be eligible? Will we have a situation where the texpayer writes themselves an IOU?

News

Minister Hogan to review 2010 Planning Legislation

Wed, 23 Mar 2011 13:32:00 UTC

A Sinister plan to remove all traces of the Green Party in Government? Or a more than sensible step to correct a piece of over zealous legislation? We'll have to wait and see the full details when the new Planning Act is published

News, Property

Tracker holders may get cash incentive to pay early

Wed, 23 Mar 2011 12:48:29 UTC

The details on this potential scheme are still unconfirmed and are more a list of things that could 'possibly' put in place. Firstly, we should be under no illusion that these steps are being taken by banks to reduce the impact that low interest tracker mortgages are having on their balance sheet, but since bank losses are technically 'our' losses then this isn't necessarily a bad thing either. For homeowners, the options to pay off more (reducing future interest payments and the potential to take their tracker mortgage to a new home (albeit at a slightly increased rate) are benefits which offer greater flexibility/choice to homeowners. We'll wait for more detail but before making any decision we'd encourage homeowners to seek independent advice from a Mortgage Broker .

Finance, News, Property

Fitzpatrick charges on cards after DPP move

Tue, 22 Mar 2011 14:42:04 UTC

Hopefully it won't be too much of a stretch to classify this as good news, as we will have to wait and see if the first of potentially a long list of bankers is held culpable for their reckless lending and other questionable activities whilst in charge.

Finance, News

Price Falls spark American Interest

Mon, 21 Mar 2011 10:21:34 UTC

Potentially some rare good news for the Irish Property Market with reduced prices now being perceived as value for money it now appears some of the Irish American diaspora would be interested in buying a holiday home/spendimg time in Ireland. It's especially good news for the West (where the highest proportion of 'Ghost Estates' are) as Kerry, Cork, Galway, Donegal and Clare all rank highly in terms of preferred destinations

News, Property

Maximizing Your Attic Space

Fri, 18 Mar 2011 11:25:25 UTC

Thinking about converting your attic? Want to make it more than just wasted space? This article will give you some good ideas. Look at what you need to take into consideration and some examples of the many ways your attic space can be used. If you have any more queries on getting your attic converted, talk to the Build & Improve Centre. We can answer any questions you have. You can also iDirectory for Attic/Loft Conversions businesses in your area

iDevelop, Interior Decorating, Your Home

AIB mortgage holders see 1pc increase in fixed rates

Wed, 16 Mar 2011 11:56:44 UTC

Following on from other recent rate increases, AIB have now announced that they are increasing some fixed-rates by almost 1%, hopefully you heeded some of our earlier blogs encouraging you to fix your mortgage interest rate. If not, then we'd still suggest not to delay and 'Fix It' now.

Finance, News

Last chance for Mortgage Interest Relief

Tue, 15 Mar 2011 14:12:51 UTC

This reminder may not have people rushing to get on the Property Ladder but in terms of savings over the next 7 years it is certainly worth considering as part of any decision to purchase a new home

Finance, News, Property

Legal bid over 20pc home loan rate

Mon, 14 Mar 2011 12:07:13 UTC

This could really set the cat amongst the pidgeons, though certainly questions must be asked about agreements where an interest rate as high as 20pc is imposed even on the basis of simple fairness.

Finance, News

Customs crackdown as smuggling of heating oil from the North soars

Mon, 14 Mar 2011 11:28:18 UTC

At iDevelop.ie we're all for encouraging homeowners to find the best prices, we would never encourage anyone to break the law and homeowners should be aware that 'a person taking oil across the Border from the North must notify the local revenue office and pay taxes, including the carbon tax, on the oil'. This report also highlights a 400pc increase in home-heating tank raids over the past 5 months so homeowners need to take greater care of their home heating oil - expensive as it is. We'd recommend : Sonic Watchman Alarm Ultrasonic Oil Level Monitor Energy Meter Gauge or Watchman Sonic Alarm

Energy, News

Find you way through Mortgage Minefield

Fri, 11 Mar 2011 12:25:39 UTC

An interesting/useful article giving a good rundown of all that is being done to help homeowners restructure and repay their mortgages - hopefully it shows homeowners that there is help available.

Finance, News

Woman hopes property lottery will clear mortgage

Fri, 11 Mar 2011 11:58:11 UTC

A creative solution to pressing problem for this lady - faced with negative equity in her mortgage she is running a lottery/raffle for her premises with the proceeds paying off the mortgage - though it is very much a pity that she has had to go to such lengths in an effort to become debt free.

News, Property

Tenants face eviction over repossessions

Thu, 10 Mar 2011 17:47:47 UTC

This is another ticking timebomb as tenants who are continuing to pay their rents may find themselves out of their home as their landlords default on the mortgages they took out for their 'Buy-to-let' property.

News, Property

Simple tips to update your kitchen

Wed, 09 Mar 2011 15:25:52 UTC

Some more tips/ideas for updating your kitchen on a budget, for more information check out our Kitchen Upgrade packages.

iDevelop, Interior Decorating, Your Home

Developer awarded 4 million euro after Meath County Council 'bungling'

Wed, 09 Mar 2011 11:41:24 UTC

Elsewhere today we mention 1 Public body appearing to perform above expectations (UK Property recovery good for NAMA) but unfortunately here we have an example of a Local Authority reverting to type!

News

UK Property recovery good for NAMA

Wed, 09 Mar 2011 11:14:56 UTC

The upturn in the UK Property market is providing some much needed good news for NAMA as in this case it reports a 100 per cent profit on a loan. As the taxpayer is backing any NAMA losses then long may these profits continue to help balance undoubted losses/haircuts to come in the Irish market.

News, Property

Build & Improve Packages at work in your Kitchen

Tue, 08 Mar 2011 17:32:12 UTC

Who doesn't dream of fixing up their kitchen? After all, the room is often the heart of the home where families spend most of their time. For anyone looking to install a new kitchen or upgrade their current kitchen, the scale of work undertaken typically depends on budget and the current state of the kitchen. Does it need more space? Is it due for an update before being put up for sale? Or does it simply need some sprucing up to better suit your taste or lifestyle - a bigger fridge, new paint, more light? Check out our Kitchen Upgrade packages

Interior Decorating, iDevelop, Your Home

Gas price rise 'likely' by year-end

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 18:08:50 UTC

Early warning from Bord Gais ahead of next winter, the best thing we can suggest is to contact Build and Improve about our Home Insulation Packages so your home is prepared for next winter and help you save on your Energy bills. Don't forget to ask about our payment plan.

Energy, News, iDevelop, Your Home

Bank of Ireland's Week in Review

Fri, 04 Mar 2011 15:52:15 UTC

Two interesting stories involving Bank of Ireland this week, the furore over the payment of bonuses (all richly deserved and as the least bad of the Irish Banks how could that be in question), then there's there court case against a Dublin couple for the repayment of euro 70 million loan (which would pay for the bonuses so no harm done!) though as the couple in question owes over euro 800 million worldwide, the chances of full repayment could be slim.

Finance, News

4 Mortgage Hikes on the way in 2011 from the ECB

Fri, 04 Mar 2011 15:23:33 UTC

All thanks to the men at the ECB! This type of action can only have a negative impact on households currently experiencing difficulty paying their mortgages and we will almost certainly see more people slipping into arrears.

Finance, News, Your Home

Upcoming sale of receivership properties to test market

Fri, 04 Mar 2011 14:50:51 UTC

An upcoming acid test for the Irish Property market as 80 properties go on to auction next month.

News, Property

Build & Improve Packages at work in your Bathroom

Wed, 02 Mar 2011 17:55:32 UTC

Tight bathroom spaces are often more about function than style. Transform your small bath with a little creativity and a few space-expanding tricks. Contact Us about 1 of our Build Improve Bathroom Packages, gain a bathroom with an Attic Conversion or Home Storage Solutions to help you make the most of your bathroom space.

Interior Decorating, iDevelop, Your Home

UK Construction Industry showing signs of recovery

Wed, 02 Mar 2011 17:48:34 UTC

Looking a little further a field, some encouraging signs in the UK Building Industry and hopefully it won't be long before similiar signs of recovery appear in Ireland - Enda and Eamonn its over to you!

News

10 per cent of owners struggle to pay mortgage

Tue, 01 Mar 2011 16:50:51 UTC

More detail/depth on recent figures from the Central Bank but figures do not take into account the effect of the recent mortgage rate increases and the implementation of the Universal Social Charge.

Finance, News

Mortgage holders in arrears owe over 8 Billion euro

Tue, 01 Mar 2011 16:50:15 UTC

These figures aren't new, they've been about since last November in 1 shape or another but this marks their first 'official reporting' by the Central Bank.

Finance, News

Mortgage loans fell 22.5 per cent in Q4 of 2010

Tue, 01 Mar 2011 16:49:14 UTC

The Mortgage market in Ireland continues to weaken with the volume of new lending in the final quarter of last year, falling 22.5 per cent on the previous quarter and 43.5 per cent on the same period in 2009.

Property, Finance, News

Kingspan sales increase by 6 per cent.

Mon, 28 Feb 2011 16:48:24 UTC

Everybody seems to be at it - insulating their homes that is - as Kingspan reveal worldwide sales have increased by 6 per cent. Have a look at all your Home Insulation options in iProducts or contact Build and Improve to get your home insulated.

News

Brian Friel and John Hume raise fears over sewerage scheme

Mon, 28 Feb 2011 16:46:48 UTC

Playwright Brian Friel, former SDLP leader John Hume and his wife Pat and the North's Minister for Agriculture and Rural Development, Michelle Gildernew, have expressed concerns about Donegal County Council's plans for a sewerage scheme in a scenic area on the shores of Lough Foyle.

News

ESB bids to win back customers with dual fuel deals

Mon, 28 Feb 2011 16:46:10 UTC

The ESB will try to win back customers poached by cheaper rivals by offering them deals if they sign up for both gas and electricity

Energy, News, Your Home

Gayle Dunne seeks deal with US neighbours over euro 1.5 million property

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 16:40:51 UTC

Gayle Dunne, wife of heavily indebted builder Sean Dunne, has made a last-ditch bid to save her controversial plan to redevelop a euro 1.5 million home in the US.

News

Garden dig leads to a 'Time Team' discovery

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 16:40:51 UTC

A startling discovery for this Self Builder when he started a home extension project. The Build and Improve team from idevelop.ie can help homeowners thinking of extending their home. We also have a great payment plans in place making financing improvements much easier.

News

An Taisce should be told to 'get lost', says councillor

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 16:40:51 UTC

A county councillor PJ Kelly laid the charge after the Dublin-based HQ of An Taisce lodged appeals against a Clare County Council decision to grant planning permission for one-off homes in Ballyvaughan, New Quay, Feakle and also a site near Ennis.

News

670 euro a week, and that's just service charge for Four Seasons Apartment

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 16:40:51 UTC

An apartment in the Four Seasons comes with five-star amenities - and a stratospheric service charge.

News, Property

12,000 people live in houses with no indoor flushing toilet

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 11:05:43 UTC

Despite the building boom of the past decade at least 12,000 people live in houses with no indoor flushing toilet while double that number have no bath or shower.

Property

Boomtime buyers bypassed apartments for a suburban semi

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 10:39:00 UTC

IT's a snapshot of home ownership at the end of the property bubble and shows that, for most of us, only a house is a home.

Property

My Home, their Film Set

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 09:56:05 UTC

Paul is a laid-back, restaurant-owning bachelor who lives in a bohemian bungalow in Los Angeles. He is played by Mark Ruffalo. His ramshackle kitchen is teetering with piles of clutter, his bedroom is spartan and his garden, at least at first, is a near dead yard.

News

Are Banks Lending

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 09:26:52 UTC

Bank websites imply they are still in the mortgage business but the reality is that they will only lend under strict conditions. So what are these

Finance

Insurers limit flood cover for homes

Wed, 23 Feb 2011 11:52:41 UTC

Insurers are restricting the number of homes they are offering flood cover to as the industry paid out in Europe 1 billion in the last 14 months on weather-related incidents.

Finance, Property, Your Home

Brawling pensioners warned to keep peace

Wed, 23 Feb 2011 09:27:15 UTC

A pair of elderly neighbours who came to blows over a stray leaf have been ordered to stay away from each other following a doorstep brawl involving garden shears and a walking stick.

News

Avoid a Housing Headache

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 16:38:26 UTC

Here is a great idea from Donegal-based Property Company. They have launched a NATIONAL CAMPAIGN aimed at promoting best practice advice for buyers and sellers in the Irish property market.

News, Property

30 Beautiful and Relaxing Bathroom Design Ideas

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 11:21:39 UTC

Relaxation can be achieved in a variety of forms. Here is a collection of 30 amazing bathroom designs that are meant to release pressure.

Interior Decorating, Your Home

Developers' body looks to sue banks and policymakers over collapse

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 09:56:45 UTC

Irish bank bosses, regulators and policymakers are set to be sued for their role in allowing individuals and business to build up millions of property debts they can't repay.

News

New blow for homeowners as Ulster Bank hikes fixed rates

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 09:28:52 UTC

Ulster Bank has hiked its fixed rates by up to 0.8pc, as more banks try to discourage homeowners from opting for the safety of set monthly repayments.

Finance, Your Home

Insurer uses own builders' panel to cut cost of claims

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 09:06:59 UTC

A leading home insurance company has significantly changed the way it processes claims in order to reduce its costs but concern has been expressed the move will restrict consumer choice.

Finance

First auction of distressed property is set for April

Mon, 21 Feb 2011 14:04:05 UTC

Property going under the hammer at discounts of up to 75pc on peak prices

News, Property

10 Really Interesting Architecture Projects of 2010

Mon, 21 Feb 2011 13:47:01 UTC

Brace yourselves for a post that will get your design and architecture senses racing. We decided to make a very special list that includes 10 of the most interesting homes of 2010

Interior Decorating

Couple warn others after seized home is stripped bare by thieves

Mon, 21 Feb 2011 10:04:21 UTC

A couple whose repossessed home was stripped clean by thieves have warned of measures needed to maintain and secure properties after courts hand them over to lenders

News

Labour pledge to help struggling mortgage holders

Mon, 21 Feb 2011 09:05:27 UTC

The Labour Party vows to introduce a two year moratorium on repossessions.

Finance, News

Is it too late to switch to a fixed mortgage

Mon, 21 Feb 2011 08:48:10 UTC

Variable interest rates are on the rise and the only way to get some certainty is to switch to a fixed-rate mortgage.

Finance, Your Home

Rezoning applications refused in north Dublin

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 18:02:39 UTC

Some of Ireland's leading developers have had rezoning applications turned down in north County Dublin, as councils grow increasingly sceptical about future demand for housing.

News

Increase in Households in Mortgage arrears

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 16:43:28 UTC

More than 45,000 homeowners have now failed to pay their mortgage for three months or more. Property experts said the arrears figures were now accelerating at an alarming rate.

News, Finance, Property

5 million made available to fix up 350 'ghost estates'

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 14:28:20 UTC

Up to 350 housing estates are so badly unfinished that they are dangerous, an investigation has found.

News

30 million value put on rural site like 10 billion deal in Dublin

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 14:14:21 UTC

A Shopkeeper who claims he was offered a "colossal" 32 million bank loan from Zurich Bank to develop a shopping centre had previously been refused finance for the project by two major banks

News, Finance

E.coli levels in water supplies still too high.

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 13:55:31 UTC

The detection of animal and human waste in public drinking water supplies has halved over the last two years. But tests have revealed that, despite improvements, contamination levels of E.coli are still five times higher than found in comparable supplies in England and Wales.

News, Property

Google buys landmark Dublin offices

Thu, 17 Feb 2011 16:58:35 UTC

Google has bought Dublins tallest commercial office building for almost 100 million euro

News

When the bank says its time to sell your home

Thu, 17 Feb 2011 12:23:08 UTC

Whats it like when the bank calls you in to tell you that your house has to go. One homeowner found it humiliating, intimidating and downright scary.

Finance

How to Create a Master Bedroom in your Attic

Thu, 17 Feb 2011 10:36:10 UTC

Thinking about converting your attic, This article will give you some good ideas.

Interior Decorating, Your Home

Banks altered mortgage documents

Thu, 17 Feb 2011 09:45:36 UTC

This article looks at claims made by legal representation group, New Beginnings, that mortgage lenders are altering documents without the holders consent or knowledge. There is also information on a new charity, the Phoenix Project, who aims to help struggling homeowners.

Finance

Mortgage holders face six rate hikes in a row

Thu, 17 Feb 2011 09:17:23 UTC

Homeowners with both variable and tracker mortgages have been warned that European Central Bank interest rates will rise between five and six times by the end of 2012.

Finance, Property, Your Home

How to Make Wall Art the Focal Point of your Room

Wed, 16 Feb 2011 10:30:07 UTC

To make wall art the focal point of your room, consider these tips when arranging your room, furniture, and when buying your wall art.

Interior Decorating

Bank rate rises 'risk increase in homeless'

Wed, 16 Feb 2011 10:10:59 UTC

BANKS RISK making people homeless and adding further vacant houses to an already struggling property market if they raise mortgage interest rates too much, Minister of State for Housing Michael Finneran has warned.

Finance

Shock as household bills soar after big freeze

Wed, 16 Feb 2011 10:02:01 UTC

The big freeze hit homeowners hard. Much more money was spent on utility bills than normal. Another factor that contributes to higher bills is that homes are inadequately insulated.

Finance, Your Home

Garda - CCTV not best way to tackle problems in estates

Tue, 15 Feb 2011 12:15:36 UTC

Chief Superintendent David Sheahan said antisocial behaviour was best tackled through interaction between gardai and communities.

News

Drumm had 25 bank accounts before he filed for bankruptcy

Tue, 15 Feb 2011 12:04:35 UTC

FORMER Anglo Irish Bank boss David Drumm and his wife Lorraine had up to 25 bank accounts between them before he filed for bankruptcy in the US

Finance

Burglary peaks coinciding with school runs

Tue, 15 Feb 2011 12:01:10 UTC

GARDAI in Cork have statistically analysed when householders are most likely to be burgled and their research has thrown up some surprises.

News, Your Home

Average NI house prices fall almost 8pc

Tue, 15 Feb 2011 08:55:04 UTC

Average house prices in Northern Ireland fell by almost 8pc last year.

Finance, Property

The trials of switching gas supplier

Mon, 14 Feb 2011 10:08:34 UTC

A reader called Roisin who has been fuming got in touch with us to outline her experiences attempting to switch her gas supplier from Bord Gais Energy to Airtricity

Energy

Crooked House

Mon, 14 Feb 2011 09:55:37 UTC

Fovea Architects from Switzerland have designed a unique house constructed from prefabricates called Crooked house.

Interior Decorating

How to make the most of a small back garden

Mon, 14 Feb 2011 09:43:25 UTC

The size of a garden need not limit your ambition to grow your own fruit and vegetables. But the smaller the garden, the more every square centimetre of the place needs to earn its keep. There are several ways you can bring this about.

Gardening, Your Home

The smart money is on a cosy house

Mon, 14 Feb 2011 09:06:02 UTC

Boosting your insulation and retrofitting your home with other energy saving measures can mean big savings in the long run

Energy, Your Home

Dunne jets in as his wife takes control of second property firm

Fri, 11 Feb 2011 09:53:40 UTC

A SECOND American property company launched by heavily indebted developer Sean Dunne has been transferred into his wifes name, the Irish Independent has learned.

News

The Edges Malibu mansions plan put on hold

Fri, 11 Feb 2011 09:21:14 UTC

The Edges plans to build 5 mansions in California have been put in jeopardy as the California Coastal Commission objects to his plans. The U2 guitarist has said the mansions will be some of the most environmentally sensitive ever designed in the world.

News, Property

Eircom to hike prices

Fri, 11 Feb 2011 09:00:31 UTC

THOUSANDS OF Eircom customers will see their bills increase by 3.1 per cent on average and will lose two hours of off-peak calls from next month.

News, Your Home

Your Highness, please help us get our money back

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 16:31:32 UTC

To Her Highness Sheikha Mozah Bint Nasser Al Missned We are an Irish couple who moved to Qatar in 2004 to work and live in a different country. My husband is a pilot and I am a medical genetic scientist

News

Mortgage holders get part of debt written off

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 09:55:11 UTC

A NUMBER of heavily indebted mortgage holders have managed to get some of their debt written off

Finance

Why it pays to get the inside story on your soil

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 09:41:26 UTC

The correct balance of nutrients and trace elements is vital for healthy growth

Gardening

Sun sets for holiday homeowners

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 09:23:12 UTC

Thousands of Irish people who bought homes abroad, for their holidays or as a pension, are selling up if they can

News

Family Planning in the Garden

Wed, 09 Feb 2011 09:49:20 UTC

Heres a great article on ideas on how to make your garden a kid friendly zone

Gardening, Your Home

Bathrooms, Splashing out can pay dividends

Wed, 09 Feb 2011 09:26:49 UTC

Adding a bathroom or reviving your existing one is worth the effort

Interior Decorating, Your Home

Sharp increase in mortgage complaints

Wed, 09 Feb 2011 09:17:55 UTC

COMPLAINTS about mortgages to the Financial Services Ombudsman increased significantly in the second half of last year.

Finance

Fuel poverty may cause thousands of deaths

Tue, 08 Feb 2011 09:37:42 UTC

THE INABILITY to pay for home heating could be contributing to up to 2000 winter deaths across Ireland a year, an Energy Action conference on fuel poverty has heard.

Energy

Energy firms cut off 13000 households

Tue, 08 Feb 2011 09:36:57 UTC

UP to 13000 households had their electricity disconnected last year, a 30pc increase on 2009

Energy

Repossessions at all-time high but crisis to deepen

Tue, 08 Feb 2011 09:35:53 UTC

REPOSSESSION orders granted by the courts have risen almost six-fold since the peak of the property boom.

Finance, Property

Jim Sheridan's Dalkey dream house

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 09:50:37 UTC

Dalkey dream house. It is a case of art mirroring life

News, Property

Rate of decline in national rent prices slowing

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 09:33:44 UTC

Property rental prices are continuing to fall nationally, according to a new survey published today.

News, Property

Breaking free from the prison of negative equity

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 09:19:46 UTC

IRISH HOMEOWNERS trapped in negative equity may have read with envy that UK banking group Lloyds is now offering an escape route to customers with underwater mortgages through its new Equity Support Scheme.

Finance

Candidates protest over Water Services

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 10:33:28 UTC

PRESSURE on the Government from the EU to privatise domestic water supply must stop, United Left Alliance candidates Joe Higgins and Joan Collins have said.

Energy, News

Households in big trouble as they fail to pay mortgage debt

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 10:25:43 UTC

Repossessions set to soar as bondholders turn the screw.

Finance

Polytunnel Superpower for your Veg

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 10:07:37 UTC

How to harness plastic in pursuit of bumper early crops that you can grow under surprisingly cheap and easy to put up polytunnels.

Gardening

Homeowners told hold onto their Tracker Mortgages

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 09:57:58 UTC

A year of woe is forecast for mortgage holders but dont let banks convince you to switch from your tracker mortgage.

Finance, Your Home

Competition on the way but forget cuts in energy bills

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 09:09:45 UTC

POWER companies will be free to set their own prices for the first time from April 1, but consumers should not bank on a decrease in charges.

Energy, Your Home

Fixed rate mortgages axed as 1pc hike bites

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 08:52:10 UTC

THE country's largest mortgage provider is abolishing fixed rate homeloans, leaving customers with no escape from future interest rate increases.

Finance

As house prices plummet, should first time buyers pounce

Thu, 03 Feb 2011 10:51:00 UTC

House prices have fallen like a stone in the past three years. This means it now takes just over a tenth of the average income of a first time buyer couple to pay the mortgage.

Finance, Property

Hone your gardening skills and get ready for spring

Thu, 03 Feb 2011 10:15:45 UTC

Want to improve your gardening skills. There is a wide range of courses on offer around the country for growers keen to learn more

Gardening

More light, less energy loss in D12

Thu, 03 Feb 2011 09:55:31 UTC

Architect Amanda Bones house graduated from a BER rating of F to C2 after her bright, open plan revamp

News

Developer's son offers to pay off 100 euro a month on 17m debt

Thu, 03 Feb 2011 09:22:02 UTC

THE son of property tycoon Paddy Kelly has fallen behind on his mortgage payments and cannot repay a 17m debt he owes.

News

Sean Brogan Conservation at Gola Skills Summer School

Wed, 02 Feb 2011 11:25:40 UTC

Sean Brogan Conservation were involved in a Traditional Building Skill School on Gola Island, trying to keep alive and pass on traditional building skills to a new generation.

iDevelop

An Taisce Kerry AGM told of ghost estates

Wed, 02 Feb 2011 10:23:20 UTC

An Taisce report on overdevelopment in Kerry and instances of developers thanking An Taisce, County Planners and An Bord Pleanala for denying them planning permission and saving them from themselves!.

News

Permanent TSB raise mortgage rate by 1 per cent

Wed, 02 Feb 2011 10:06:09 UTC

More bad news for Irish Homeowners as Permanent TSB increase their rates on the back of recent speculation but the big shock is that they have made their full year's increment in 1 go rather than in cumulative increases as previously expected.

Finance, News

January Competition Winners

Tue, 01 Feb 2011 09:50:36 UTC

Winners of our January Oil competition

iDevelop

Summer rates rise to put borrowers under pressure

Tue, 01 Feb 2011 09:07:23 UTC

MORTGAGE holders were warned yesterday that interest rates will start rising as early as the end of the summer, in a move that will put thousands of homeowners under massive financial strain.

Finance

Banks using private eyes to hunt vanishing homeowners

Tue, 01 Feb 2011 08:53:33 UTC

BANKS and sub prime lenders are using private investigators to find borrowers who have abandoned their homes.

News

Bord Pleanala refuses east Cork development plan

Mon, 31 Jan 2011 10:03:27 UTC

BORD Pleanala has refused permission for a multi million euro development in an east Cork village which would have included 163 houses, a creche, medical centre and a number of retail units.

News

Soaring Home Insurance Costs

Mon, 31 Jan 2011 09:48:27 UTC

HARD pressed consumers are set to be hit in the pocket yet again after insurers announced plans to raise house premiums by 15 percent

Finance, Your Home

State mortgage aid up five fold in four years

Mon, 31 Jan 2011 09:22:11 UTC

THE number of people receiving state aid to pay their mortgage has jumped five fold in just four years.

Finance

Safety fears in Ghost Estate

Fri, 28 Jan 2011 10:00:46 UTC

Parents fear they or their children will be injured due to falling clumps of mortar from the unfinished houses at the Ardan estate

News

Protected buildings cost council 300k in roads funding

Fri, 28 Jan 2011 09:38:13 UTC

FAILURE to demolish two protected 19th century buildings in Clare due to local opposition resulted in the council forfeiting 300000 in funding from its roads budget.

News

Most affordable house prices in 25 years

Fri, 28 Jan 2011 09:06:30 UTC

While much of the decade was all about exorbitant house prices, latest figures show prices are now at their most affordable in more than 25 years.

Finance, Property

Cold Comfort Gardening

Thu, 27 Jan 2011 09:51:41 UTC

Will our gardens recover from last months record low temperatures, and what can be done to protect them from snow and icy conditions

Gardening

The world's most expensive streets

Thu, 27 Jan 2011 09:36:01 UTC

HOW does Dublin 4, Irelands most expensive address compare to the words priciest locations

News, Property

Landlords in the lurch as dream goes sour

Thu, 27 Jan 2011 09:10:20 UTC

Far from being members of a fat-cat elite, many small-time property investors say they face bankruptcy if Section 23 tax reliefs are phased out

Finance, Property

Bank settles action against Celtic's Neil Lennon

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 09:15:38 UTC

BANK OF Ireland has settled its court action against Celtic football club manager Neil Lennon

Finance, News

Could you be a Super Garden Designer

Tue, 25 Jan 2011 15:26:27 UTC

RTEs Super Garden is seeking 5 amateur garden designers to compete for the title of Super Gardener in the new RTE series to be broadcast in May 2011

Gardening

Bank gave Developer 32m euro loan

Tue, 25 Jan 2011 09:43:31 UTC

Castleblayney shopkeeper took on shopping centre project in Co Monaghan

Finance, News

IAVI warns over lack of mortgage lending

Tue, 25 Jan 2011 09:01:28 UTC

A BROKEN banking system is having a crippling effect on the property market and house prices are continuing their downward spiral

Finance

Mortgage rates could hit 5 percent by end of year

Mon, 24 Jan 2011 14:00:05 UTC

Rates on standard variable mortgages could hit 5 per cent by the end of the year

Finance, Your Home

What does the future hold for a beleaguered property market

Mon, 24 Jan 2011 10:33:51 UTC

With so many variable factors affecting prices, Valerie Shanley asks the experts for their views on possible trends

News, Property

Homeowners are under house arrest

Fri, 21 Jan 2011 10:17:53 UTC

MANY HOMEOWNERS are finding themselves under house arrest as property prices continue to slide and increasing numbers find themselves in negative equity.

Finance

Visiting Mary McAleese's Gardens

Fri, 21 Jan 2011 09:59:36 UTC

Here is a unique insight into the Presidents gardens by Shawna Coronado, a journalist who advocates sustainability in the garden.

Gardening

The World is sinking

Fri, 21 Jan 2011 08:59:24 UTC

The islands were intended as the ultimate luxury possession, even for Dubai.

News

When it comes to potatoes it's early days for the expert

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 10:40:24 UTC

Common sense is the best guide to growing spuds

Gardening

Property Investor

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 10:24:35 UTC

When it comes to negative equity, investors have taken a big hit as many bought apartments rather than conventional starter homes

Finance, Property

World's most expensive flats go on sale

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 09:55:35 UTC

The worlds most expensive residential apartments at One Hyde Park have been officially unveiled today by the colourful property duo the Candy brothers

News, Property

What's a house worth now. Does anyone know

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 09:07:06 UTC

With no national house price register available to help homeowners, working out how much your property is really worth can be tricky if not impossible

Finance, Property

Your smartphone will control your house, home appliances in the future

Wed, 19 Jan 2011 09:57:57 UTC

Your smartphone, that small, portable device you carry with you everywhere you go will take on an even more important role in your life in the future

Interior Decorating, Your Home

Frozen pipes survey to help plan for future big freezes

Wed, 19 Jan 2011 09:26:46 UTC

A CITY which escaped major water disruption during the big freeze has launched a frozen pipes survey to help plan for future water crises

News

House prices dip to 2002 levels

Wed, 19 Jan 2011 08:56:29 UTC

HOUSE PRICES fell by 3.5 per cent in the final quarter of last year and are down 38 per cent since prices peaked at the end of 2006.

Finance, Property

Mortgage providers to restrict loans for homes in rural areas

Tue, 18 Jan 2011 10:14:43 UTC

A NUMBER of mortgage providers are to curtail lending for homes in rural areas

Finance

IKEA recalls glass mug after breakages and injuries

Tue, 18 Jan 2011 10:02:47 UTC

IKEA has recalled a RUND glass mug over safety fears.

News

Six orders granted to possess homes

Tue, 18 Jan 2011 09:35:27 UTC

A HOME repossession case was adjourned at the High Court yesterday after a father of one of the borrowers pleaded for time to allow his daughter and her husband to get marriage counselling.

Finance

Lenders expected to follow hike

Tue, 18 Jan 2011 09:22:22 UTC

Financial lenders are expected to follow an anticipated move by Permanent TSB to hike interest rates resulting in more payment hikes for house owners

Finance

Almost 50 a day are losing their electricity supply

Mon, 17 Jan 2011 10:36:16 UTC

There was a huge spike in the numbers being disconnected during 2010 for non payment of amounts owed.

Energy, News

A lot to learn about growing food

Mon, 17 Jan 2011 09:55:44 UTC

Growing food in allotments is different to cultivating vegetables in your back garden, so how do you go about it

Gardening

Green light for 40000 homes as thousands more stand idle

Mon, 17 Jan 2011 09:35:06 UTC

Planners have approved 43000 apartments and homes in housing estates in 2009 and 2010 despite a massive overhang of unsold properties in the market and banks refusing to lend.

News

Permanent TSB gets ready to increase mortgage rates

Mon, 17 Jan 2011 09:14:41 UTC

Up to 80000 homeowners will be affected and other financial institutions expected to follow suit.

Finance

Why 2011 will be a bad year for gardens

Fri, 14 Jan 2011 10:35:37 UTC

The cold snap may have done irreversible damage to your plants.

Gardening

Sales of wood-burning stoves and fireplaces are roaring

Fri, 14 Jan 2011 09:47:40 UTC

Both the Solid Fuel Association and the National Association of Chimney Sweeps report business has increased by 20 to 40 per cent since 2008. And fireplace retailers across the UK are reporting a successful 2010, with sales up even before the icy winter hit.

Interior Decorating

Homeowners face rate hike as EU warns of inflation risk

Fri, 14 Jan 2011 09:02:37 UTC

HOMEOWNERS were yesterday facing the prospect of higher mortgage payments as early as September.

Finance

Negative equity traps up to 300000

Thu, 13 Jan 2011 11:49:19 UTC

Up to 300000 house owners could be trapped in negative equity resulting in them being unable to change mortgage provider to avail of a cheaper loan.

Finance

Attic Conversion not up to scratch

Thu, 13 Jan 2011 10:48:59 UTC

Recently had an attic conversion carried out. If you think the workmanship is not up to standard then read this article.

Interior Decorating, News

Tools to make your garden grow

Thu, 13 Jan 2011 09:49:05 UTC

Spades, shovels, hoes, forks, trowels. How to pick the best garden tools

Gardening

Property investors failing to pay service charges

Thu, 13 Jan 2011 09:38:17 UTC

Cleaning, security and maintenance of apartments and houses are suffering because of unpaid service charges, says a new survey

News, Property

Why old rubbish is the future for 2011

Wed, 12 Jan 2011 11:45:01 UTC

From North Sea diving to repurposing useless objects, Guy Trench of Antiques By Design has become an unlikely interiors star.

Interior Decorating

Homeowners get more time to consider compensation plan

Wed, 12 Jan 2011 11:08:23 UTC

A Decision on a proposal to set up a trust fund for 550 Dublin homeowners suing over structural damages to their houses has been adjourned until January 20th, to allow residents who have not yet voted more time to consider the proposal.

News

Banks to abolish fixed rate mortgages

Wed, 12 Jan 2011 09:11:18 UTC

Banks and building societies are planning to abolish fixed-rate mortgages because they are too expensive for lenders to provide, according to a leading mortgage expert.

Finance, News

Gardens - Old wives tales

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 10:45:46 UTC

Many gardening tips have been passed down through the generations, but are they simply myths or do they have any scientific weight

Gardening

17000 with no TV licence face court

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 10:08:25 UTC

OVER 17000 people are facing prosecution for failing to purchase a TV licence last year as the number of offenders rose for the third consecutive year.

News

No statutory law for LPG installation

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 09:44:08 UTC

Recent tragic events have highlighted the dangers posed by carbon monoxide. This article gives a brief overview of this poisonous gas and its effects.

News

Site valuation tax to be contained in Finance Bill

Mon, 10 Jan 2011 11:57:45 UTC

A site valuation tax, generally regarded as a precursor to a property tax, will be contained in the fothcoming Finance Bill.

Finance, News, Property

Mortgage holders on alert for hike

Mon, 10 Jan 2011 11:25:10 UTC

Fears have been expressed that the European Central Bank may raise interest rates in 2011 bringing further heartache for house owners.

Finance

Menolly Homes unable to pay claims

Mon, 10 Jan 2011 10:39:45 UTC

Menolly Homes has told 550 north Dublin householders suing over structural defects to their homes that it cannot afford to pay any successful claims.

News

Property law may fall at finish line

Fri, 07 Jan 2011 11:11:25 UTC

Plans to regulate the property industry and set up a house price register look as if they may collapse.

News, Property

Met Eireann warns of fresh snow

Wed, 05 Jan 2011 00:33:19 UTC

The big chill looks set to return with Met Eireann warning of fresh snow falls hitting the country by the end of the week.

News

Property prices at 2002 levels

Wed, 05 Jan 2011 00:23:57 UTC

Property prices fell back to 2002 levels in 2010, according to property reports from MyHome.ie and Sherry Fitzgerald.

Finance, News, Property

Water restrictions to be lifted

Fri, 31 Dec 2010 13:51:53 UTC

Water restrictions in Dublin city centre will be lifted this afternoon for the New Year's Eve celebrations but householders still face a further 10 days of diminished supply.

News

Dont try this at home

Wed, 22 Dec 2010 14:37:59 UTC

Inventive ideas but please dont try this at home

News

Bereaved Dana warns of gas death danger

Wed, 22 Dec 2010 10:10:26 UTC

Dana Rosemary Scallon took to the airwaves yesterday to warn people about the importance of installing a carbon monoxide alarm in their homes.

News

Gannon's wife faces forced move of property to NAMA

Wed, 22 Dec 2010 09:40:41 UTC

Property developer Gerry Gannon's wife Margaret faces the prospect of being forced to hand over millions of euro worth of properties transferred into her name by her husband.

Finance, News

Fund of 7million euro for homes with defects

Wed, 22 Dec 2010 09:04:33 UTC

Hundreds of north Dublin homeowners whose properties have suffered major defects are set to agree to the establishment of a 7 million euro trust fund to carry out major repairs to their houses.

News

How to build an igloo

Tue, 21 Dec 2010 11:46:28 UTC

Guide on how to build an igloo.

News

Developer cant repay Anglo

Tue, 21 Dec 2010 09:07:58 UTC

A Developer who claimed he had easy access to senior figures at Anglo Irish Bank last night revealed he is broke and cannot repay 86.5 million he owes to the lender

Finance, News

December Competition Winners

Mon, 20 Dec 2010 14:54:36 UTC

The draw for our December Home Heating Oil Competition has taken place. And the winners are ...

iDevelop

The secret history of the Smeg fridge

Mon, 20 Dec 2010 10:07:10 UTC

Brief overview of the iconic Smeg Fridge

Interior Decorating

Sub-zero temperatures to last until Christmas Eve

Mon, 20 Dec 2010 09:25:20 UTC

The country faces several more days of subzero temperatures, with conditions unlikely to improve until Christmas Eve at the earliest.

News

Hotel erects worlds most expensive Christmas tree

Fri, 17 Dec 2010 10:47:35 UTC

A Christmas tree that costs 8 million euro and is thought to be the most expensive ever decorated has been unveiled at Abu Dhabi's Emirates Palace hotel.

News

Families face 10pc hike in price of coal and peat next year

Fri, 17 Dec 2010 10:30:01 UTC

Householders will be hit with a 10pc hike in their fuel bills from the summer after the carbon tax was extended to coal and peat.

Energy

Cold spell claims rejected by many insurers

Fri, 17 Dec 2010 09:41:02 UTC

Thousands of homeowners could have claims for damage from the recent cold snap rejected, loss assessors have warned.

Finance, News

Section 23 investors 'may face bankruptcy' over tax bills

Thu, 16 Dec 2010 10:17:54 UTC

Some Section 23 investors who bought properties with 10-year tax breaks are now facing unanticipated tax bills in the new year

Finance, Property

Politician lodges plan for houses despite flood risk

Thu, 16 Dec 2010 09:58:33 UTC

Goes to show you...politicians will say one thing and do the opposite.

News, Property

A Christmas wreath that's good enough to eat

Thu, 16 Dec 2010 09:33:30 UTC

Make your own Christmas wreath.

Interior Decorating

The slightly less Leaning Tower of Pisa

Wed, 15 Dec 2010 10:22:42 UTC

The Leaning Tower of Pisa has been returned to its former glory after an eight year restoration project in which it was cleaned and partially straightened.

News

Contractor gives 2m euro of equipment to locals

Wed, 15 Dec 2010 10:21:13 UTC

Local clubs and community groups in Meath benefit from generosity of contractor.

News

Landlord with two houses each worth 1 million euro on social welfare

Wed, 15 Dec 2010 10:08:49 UTC

A LANDLORD and insurance broker with interests in a number of valuable properties is drawing 218 euro a week social welfare, a court was told yesterday

News

Snow set to return while water restrictions continue

Wed, 15 Dec 2010 10:05:44 UTC

Brace yourselves for more arctic weather as snow to return before the weekend. Prepare for another cold snap with our handy guide.

News

Safe sales soar as worried bank customers keep money at home

Tue, 14 Dec 2010 11:25:58 UTC

As burglaries increase and confidence in the banks at its lowest ebb, more and more homeowners investing in home safes for their cash. To view some of the products that are on the market, check out safes and faults in our home security section in iproducts.

News, Your Home

Restrictions on water supplies to continue

Tue, 14 Dec 2010 11:25:28 UTC

The need for water cuts is being monitored on a daily basis in Dublin, Wicklow, Kildare and Westmeath. Restrictions could be in place until the end of the week.

News

Altared states: former church may have mass appeal

Mon, 13 Dec 2010 12:12:27 UTC

A converted church in Louth, complete with Harry Clarke stained-glass window, is on the market for 695,000 euro.

News

Good and bad news for property market

Mon, 13 Dec 2010 12:11:51 UTC

First time buyers and residential property investors hit by measures in last week's budget. However, changes will be welcomed by almost everyone else.

News, Property

Small builders were 'blatantly abused' by big developers, says Dragons' Den presenter

Mon, 13 Dec 2010 12:11:09 UTC

Dragons' Den presenter Sean Gallagher has lashed out at the Construction Industry Federation (CIF) and its director general Tom Parlon for "blatant and wholesale abuse of the smaller sub-contractor" in order to protect the interests of the large developers.

News

Snow showers to return to north by end of week

Mon, 13 Dec 2010 12:05:30 UTC

Bad news as forecasters are predicting another cold snap. It's going to feel really cold but hopefully we will not experience the same levels of snow seen in recent weeks. Make sure your home is ready for sub zero temperatures...check out our feature on surviving the cold snap.

News

Cork city manager launches crackdown on derelict buildings

Mon, 13 Dec 2010 12:04:50 UTC

Interesting proposal to kick start regeneration process of Blackpool in Cork. Looks like owners of derelict properties will be forced to pay for improvements. If you wish to make improvements to your property use idirectory to find tradespeople and suppliers in your area.

News

Cuts in Dublin water supplies set to continue

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 10:10:19 UTC

Cuts to water supplies to homes and businesses in the capital are likely to persist throughout the weekend, Dublin City Council has warned.

News

Broadband universal by 2012, says Ryan

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 10:09:55 UTC

Every Propery in the State will be able to avail of internet broadband by 2012, Minister for Communications Eamon Ryan has said.

News, Your Home

Residents show true grit as they bunker down for next Arctic snap

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 10:09:18 UTC

This is a great initiative by residents in a Donegal town. Experts predict another cold snap could be on the way. Preparation is the key. For hints and tips on preparing your home for the next big freeze, see our Cold Snap feature.

News

Family fury after 12 days without water

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 10:08:52 UTC

Have to feel for this family but don't think a legal challenge will get them anywhere. However, there is no mention if other residents are affected.

News

Homeowners with trackers to escape rate hikes until 2012

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 10:08:13 UTC

Great news to end Budget week for those with tracker mortgages... The ECB look like they will hold off on making interest rate changes until 2012.

Finance

Eircom customers receive warning over file sharing

Thu, 09 Dec 2010 10:34:37 UTC

Eircom to introduce a 'three strikes' policy for those downloading files illegally. This coincides with introduction of new legal download packages they have to offer.

News

Stamp duty: what if I've just bought?

Thu, 09 Dec 2010 10:34:05 UTC

If you have questions on new stamp duty rates, hopefully this article will help you out.

Finance

Writer unhappy with Stamp Duty change

Thu, 09 Dec 2010 10:33:22 UTC

Many solicitors office will be busy going over recently signed contracts to see if any "modifications" can be made. However, the newly introduced flat rate stamp duty will make some people cry, just like the example below.

Finance

Property Tax piles the pain on struggling homeowners

Wed, 08 Dec 2010 12:02:11 UTC

1.8 million households will be hit by new property tax.

Finance, Property

Why glam rocks this Christmas

Wed, 08 Dec 2010 11:59:31 UTC

One great thing about the recession...Kitch is back! Here's an article on going overboard on the Christmas decorations.

Interior Decorating

Water rationing hits 1.6 million as supplies run low

Wed, 08 Dec 2010 11:58:31 UTC

Water rationing introduced as cold snap set to return early next week.

News

New 1 per cent flat rate of stamp duty

Wed, 08 Dec 2010 11:57:39 UTC

Estate agents welcome new 1 per cent flat rate stamp duty. Not so good news for first time buyers as their allowance has been abolished.

Finance, Property

Crane used in Leinster House protest

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 12:57:44 UTC

Initial reports suggest the protester was Galway man Joseph McNamara, the guy who drove the Cement Truck into the gates of Leinster House in September.

News

Don't let your insurer give you the cold shoulder

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 12:56:31 UTC

Thousands of homeowners were caught out by last January's big freeze. Make sure you are properly covered before the current conditions start to thaw out!

Finance

Fears burst pipes will lead to water shortages

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 12:55:42 UTC

Water rationing just one of the measures that could be introduced to combat water shortages.

News

To fix or not to fix?

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 09:57:41 UTC

If you have a variable mortgage, you need to read this article.

Finance, Your Home

Beat the Protection Racket

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 09:56:56 UTC

Great article which offers advice on how to SAVE MONEY on your insurance policies.

Finance

Bord Gais to delay cutting off customers

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 09:56:13 UTC

Bord Gais promise that no customers will be disconnected well into January.

Energy

New measures in mortgage arrears code

Mon, 06 Dec 2010 17:10:06 UTC

Great news for those with mortgage repayment difficulties. A new Code of Conduct has been introduced to help protect mortgage holders against their lending institutions.

Finance

Home loans may be put in private hands

Mon, 06 Dec 2010 10:28:46 UTC

IMF plan to shrink banks will shift loans.

Finance

Roy Keane's house hits the market

Mon, 06 Dec 2010 10:28:18 UTC

You have to love the mirrors above the four poster bed!

News, Property

Landlords brought to book with IT system

Mon, 06 Dec 2010 10:27:57 UTC

If you are renting your property, make sure you are registered with the Private Residential Tenancies Board, or you could face a hefty fine.

News

Water shortages hit estates as taps left on

Mon, 06 Dec 2010 09:41:58 UTC

It is understandable residents are leaving taps running to avoid pipes freezing. However, Galway City Council appeal to residents to switch off taps at night.

News

Residents of 'unsafe' houses in Laois estate criticise support for developer

Mon, 06 Dec 2010 09:37:48 UTC

There's 2 sides to every story....

News

More households to fall into arrears

Fri, 03 Dec 2010 10:33:43 UTC

Negative equity seen as major factor causing mortgage holders to default, according to Ratings Agency Moody's. And the problem is only set to get worse.

Finance

Energy Disconnections Suspended

Fri, 03 Dec 2010 10:33:04 UTC

Good news for homeowners struggling with utility bills...the major service suppliers will not suspend accounts during the cold snap.

News

Civil service move 'led to inflated land prices'

Fri, 03 Dec 2010 10:32:21 UTC

The Government made a complete botch job of decentralisation. No surprise there! Just something else to add to the list...

News

Gas Explosion on O'Connell Street, Dublin

Thu, 02 Dec 2010 17:09:30 UTC

Lucky escape for staff and customers as Cafe on O'Connell Street, Dublin hit by gas explosion. Gas can be lethal so its important to ensure your gas boilers and appliances are in proper working order. You should have a gas service engineer inspect your property at least once a year to be safe.

News

600 building jobs 'lost' as school budget unspent

Thu, 02 Dec 2010 10:56:22 UTC

It's an absolute disgrace that the Dept. of Education squandered the opportunity to invest in school infrastructure, while at the same time employing people in the construction industry. Mary Coughlan blames construction firms going out of business as one of the reasons why work was delayed. This is a joke. If her department operated properly, those tendering for the jobs would be able to show that they were in a financial viable position to carry out the work.

News

Record-breaking cold snap to last another week

Thu, 02 Dec 2010 10:55:50 UTC

Met Eireann is telling us to expect at least another WEEK of the cold snap. If last winter's cold snap is anything to go by there will be plenty of busy Plumbers around the country. Check out some of our tips on preventing damage (if not too late already).

News

Why 'ghost estates' are still an issue

Thu, 02 Dec 2010 10:00:06 UTC

This article dismisses Bill Nowlan's opinion that the media is over-hyping the ghost estate issue.

News

Sold after eight years

Thu, 02 Dec 2010 09:59:33 UTC

Bet the estate agent handling this property is glad to see the back of it!

News, Property

Gardens: Things to do in December

Wed, 01 Dec 2010 11:25:56 UTC

Who knows when the thaw will come? But when it does, wrap up well and get outside. Here are some great ideas for things to do in the garden in December.

Gardening

My book cull: a loss of shelf esteem

Wed, 01 Dec 2010 11:25:30 UTC

Interior Decorating

Collapse of lending for new mortgages is gathering pace

Wed, 01 Dec 2010 11:24:52 UTC

The amount of people taking out mortgages has reduced significantly since the height of the boom. But it is not all bad news...those that are taking out mortgages now are home owners, not investors.

Finance

Builder offers 7 million euro to compensate for structural defects

Wed, 01 Dec 2010 11:24:30 UTC

Building contractor is putting pressure on home owners to accept a compensation deal. However, the homeowners are deliberating as they need to consider if the pyrite problem will deteriorate further.

News

UK house prices continue to fall

Wed, 01 Dec 2010 11:23:21 UTC

House prices in the UK have fallen or remained stagnate every month for the last six months.

Finance

Single mother's house repossessed

Tue, 30 Nov 2010 10:09:24 UTC

In two separate cases, two women have had their homes repossessed after failure to repay mortgages.

Finance

Mortgage rate will rise to 5pc, predicts expert

Tue, 30 Nov 2010 09:56:16 UTC

Thanks to the IMF bailout, banks will be 'forced' to increase interest rates on variable mortgages. This will affect 200,000 variable mortgage holders. Maybe you should check out another blog on fixing your mortgage.

Finance

Cost of home heating falls to EU average as competition takes off

Tue, 30 Nov 2010 09:55:32 UTC

Good news especially in the middle of a cold snap...Competition in the home heating and electrical sector is finally bringing down costs close to the European average. Want to make even more savings? See our feature on heating your home.

News

Up to 30,000 homeowners face repossessions next year

Mon, 29 Nov 2010 12:36:03 UTC

This is a stark prediction from the Expert Group. 30,000 sounds excessive and it doesn't look like the Government can, or would be willing to, bail out mortgage holders like it did the banks.

Finance

Family home saved by community

Mon, 29 Nov 2010 11:25:16 UTC

Amid all the doom and gloom recently, here is a good news story that shows community spirit is alive and well.

News

Protect Against the Cold Snap

Mon, 29 Nov 2010 11:24:48 UTC

With temperatures to plummet to below -10 degrees this week, here are some "cool" tips to protect your home against the cold snap.

News

Get the winter woollies out as big freeze returns to hit Ireland

Sat, 27 Nov 2010 20:21:07 UTC

It's perhaps too late to get the insulation installed and hopefully there's enough oil in the tank to get through the cold snap but it looks the first blast of a long cold winter, so when Monday comes contact your local Fuel Merchant for the best price for a top up. an Insulation Installer to see what a difference proper insulation can make to your home, or if you feel like installing the insulation yourself, check Insulation products in iProducts and send us through a quote for the best price available. Lastly and by no means least, if you have any elderly neighbours who are alone over the winter make sure to keep in contact to ensure that they are ok during this period.

News

The connected home: now simpler than ever

Fri, 26 Nov 2010 10:48:28 UTC

The big players in computer and communication technology are looking at ways to incorporate their products into the home. Smart home technology is rapidly improving and it is exciting to see what is coming to the market. If you are considering updating your home, talk to an Audio Visual Services Expert.

Interior Decorating, Your Home

New York state of mind

Fri, 26 Nov 2010 10:47:57 UTC

This article serves two purposes: 1. If you live in a small apartment, here's how to maximize its potential. And 2. If, after recent events, you have decided to emigrate...here are some pointers for flat hunting in London, Sydney, Tokyo or New York!

Interior Decorating

Met Eireann issues severe weather warning

Fri, 26 Nov 2010 10:46:38 UTC

As we advised yesterday, batton down the hatches and make sure to stock up on coal, home heating oil, etc. and contact a builders merchant to see if they supply salt for your driveways.

News

Man claims house must be torn down after next-door demolition

Fri, 26 Nov 2010 09:58:09 UTC

A case has been taken before the High Court as business and home owner sues developer.

News

Worried over mortgage rates? Maybe it's the time to fix things

Fri, 26 Nov 2010 09:57:51 UTC

Here is an article for the 75 per cent of mortgage holders in Ireland that don't have a fixed rate mortgage. It gives an insight into this type of mortgage and will enable you to decide if a fixed rate is the right choice for you should you consider switching. If you need more information, talk to a broker for more advice.

Finance

Installation of water meters to begin next year

Thu, 25 Nov 2010 13:14:30 UTC

Time to check all your washers....Government to implement water charges!

News

Council praised for eradicating risks from radon

Thu, 25 Nov 2010 13:14:10 UTC

Cork County Council praised for testing homes for Radon. However, thousands of homeowners across Ireland are unaware of dangers present and should test their homes.

News

Mortgage debt: 13 hard facts about owing money in Ireland

Thu, 25 Nov 2010 11:57:54 UTC

With so many experiencing difficulties making mortgage repayments (and with the number to rise after yesterday's 4 year plan announcement), here is an article on things you should know...

Finance

Swedes sell embassy house

Thu, 25 Nov 2010 11:57:27 UTC

Sweden is bailing out of Ireland. Embassy up for sale for a cool 3 million euro. At least we still have Ikea!

News, Property

Flat market: No bidder for Donegal apartments

Thu, 25 Nov 2010 11:39:48 UTC

Protests at auction disrupt sale of apartments. No bids were received and apartments will now be put up for sale by private treaty. Apartments are only partially completed and will need a lot of work to bring up to living standards.

News

Sub-zero weather with snow forecast

Thu, 25 Nov 2010 11:39:23 UTC

Looks like the cold weather that was promised is on the way. Make sure to stock up on coal, home heating oil, etc. and contact a builders merchant to see if they supply salt for your driveways.

News

Loans for making home more sustainable

Wed, 24 Nov 2010 13:37:16 UTC

Bank of Ireland have teamed up with the ESB Halo programe offering loans from 300 euro up to 65,000 euro for those interested in improving energy efficiency in the home. Our advice would be to check out the products Halo offer but shop around as the SEAI grant may be more cost effective. Check out our ienergy section for advice and information on energy efficient products.

Energy

Homeowners complain they were cheated out of trackers

Wed, 24 Nov 2010 10:33:21 UTC

One third of all complaints made to the ombudsman last year about banks were in relation to mortgages. The banks are swindling the public yet again. They are trying to force those entitled to trackers on to fixed rate. If you find yourself in this situation, contact the financial ombudsman today.

Finance

ESB refuses to pay back school powered by turbine

Wed, 24 Nov 2010 10:33:14 UTC

ESB will not pay school for excess electricity generated and supplied to national grid as they claim only domestic consumers currently can be rewarded. The ESB are paying 9 cents per kWh supplied to the grid. Check iDevelop.ie to see some examples of micro-wind turbines on the market.

Energy, News

Northern Ireland house prices slump to lowest level since 2005

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 12:18:15 UTC

A Bank of Ireland - Northern Ireland Housing Executive Report has found that house prices (which had experienced a slight increase in the first half of the year) have fallen again. The average house price is now 150,000 sterling which is roughly the same as the average price in the South.

Finance

Third of mortgage holders face repayment difficulties

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 10:47:41 UTC

A report has found that a worryingly high percentage of mortgage holders are having difficulties making repayments.

Finance

Man says he never got apartment won in newspaper competition

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 10:47:10 UTC

A man who claims he won an apartment in Dublin in a competition in the Evening Herald three years ago has sued over the failure to date to provide him with that apartment.

News

Mortgages may go into NAMA

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 09:53:17 UTC

Looks like banks will transfer mortgages from their balance sheets to NAMA. In particular, tracker mortgages and those in arrears are being discussed. Apparently mortgage holders will not be affected as repayments will be made in the normal way.

Finance

Toxic gas alarms should be mandatory, inquest told

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 09:52:48 UTC

During an inquest into his son's death, a father calls for carbon monoxide alarms to made compulsory in Irish homes.

News

300 Euro property tax to be phased in from 2012

Mon, 22 Nov 2010 11:11:13 UTC

It looks like property tax is definitely on its way but will not be introduced until 2012. However, on a positive note, stamp duty may also be phased out.

Finance, News, Property

Temperatures to hit -5C as Arctic snap drifts in

Mon, 22 Nov 2010 10:13:30 UTC

Make sure to get stocked up with heating fuel this week (see our home heating feature for more details) as it is going to feel a lot lot colder this week. There are chances of hail, sleet and snow in parts of the North West.

News

Rents see slight increase

Mon, 22 Nov 2010 10:13:05 UTC

Rents rose by almost half a percentage point during the third quarter of 2010 according to the latest report by property website Daft.ie

Finance

Developers could make fortunes from Nama assets

Sun, 21 Nov 2010 11:10:31 UTC

This isn't surprising in the slightest as the main reason the Government set up Nama was to protect its friends in the development game and the banks.

Finance

Russian hope for Irish investors in Overseas Property

Sun, 21 Nov 2010 11:10:01 UTC

Dublin firm offers advice and assistance on 'shifting' overseas property bought at height of the boom.

Finance

Calor Gas and Lidl recall electrical appliances

Sat, 20 Nov 2010 20:38:49 UTC

If you're affected by either of these situations then all we can do is urge you to follow the proceedures outlined by Calor and/or Lidl.

News

CIF calls for fair deal for subcontractors

Fri, 19 Nov 2010 17:11:03 UTC

The legislation surrounding payments between contractors and subcontractors has been thrown into sharp focus by the liquidation of the Pierse Construction Group and payments outstanding to subcontractors.

News

November Competition Winners

Fri, 19 Nov 2010 12:24:28 UTC

The draw for our November Home Heating Oil Competition has taken place. And the winners are ...

iDevelop

Developers will have to sell off their 'jets, yachts and Bentleys'

Fri, 19 Nov 2010 10:00:28 UTC

Nama looks to be cracking down on developers as they try to recover outstanding debts, even pursuing assets that one developer had transferred to other people

News

Resident urges switch to rival power suppliers

Fri, 19 Nov 2010 09:31:45 UTC

2010 has been such an event filled year that it is easy to forget how much people in the west and southwest of Ireland suffered through flooding and severe weather at the end of 2009 and into 2010. For these people the pain is still very real and 1 resident has come up with a campaign to make a point to ESB who are seen as culpable by many.

News

iDevelop at the Eircom Spiders

Fri, 19 Nov 2010 09:05:44 UTC

The eircom Spider Awards took place last night in the Burlington Hotel in Dublin. Hailed as the "Oscars of the internet industry", the eircom Spider Awards honour Irish individuals and organisations for their outstanding achievements online and celebrating the successes of the Irish internet and digital media.

iDevelop

Ronan O'Gara being sued over property deal

Thu, 18 Nov 2010 17:53:47 UTC

We blogged about this issue in September - "When completing a contract means negative equity", where we highlighted the issue of buyers entering into negativity on completion of property deals made up to 3/4 years ago at the height of the market which are now only coming to completion. At the time, we also mentioned that increasingly developers are now attempting to force buyers to complete the transaction and it looks like this case involving Ronan O'Gara is a high profile example..

Finance, News

Design your own apartment block

Thu, 18 Nov 2010 10:27:11 UTC

Space in Dublin is limited and people are turned off apartment living simply because design input is minimal, if not non-existent. A seminar held this evening by Dublin County Council aims to change all this. It should be an interesting event!

Interior Decorating

Why we shouldn't be scared of 'ghost estates'

Thu, 18 Nov 2010 09:38:20 UTC

The media have blown the issue of 'ghost estates' out of all proportion. That is the view of Bill Nowlan, a chartered surveyor and town planner. Here he looks at the Government's survey on ghost estates in more detail.

News

Homeowners offered delay on payments, but no bailout

Thu, 18 Nov 2010 09:35:25 UTC

New measures to protect thousands of homeowners in mortgage arrears will be in place by the end of the year, the Financial Regulator has promised. However, for the 70,000 mortgage holders in arrears, there will be no bailout.

Finance

Carbon monoxide related death in Fermanagh

Wed, 17 Nov 2010 10:30:41 UTC

As carbon monoxide is odourless and invisible, take precautions to protect your family. Install carbon monoxide detectors in your home and have your boiler serviced regularly and make sure your chimneys and flues are cleaned properly. Also, make sure vents are working properly so rooms are adequately ventilated.

News

Banks face eviction battles as couple start legal action

Wed, 17 Nov 2010 10:30:15 UTC

In first case brought to court by legal Action group New Beginning, a Dublin couple challenge the Government legislation allowing county registrars instead of judges, to grant home possession orders.

News

Signs of property recovery in parts of Cork and Dublin

Wed, 17 Nov 2010 10:29:34 UTC

Savills Estate Agents claim property market is not as bad as many commentators suggest. They point to fact that the numbers of properties listed as 'ghost estate' properties include holiday homes and properties currently under development.

Finance, Property

He's 'broke', but Drumm hires decorators for his $2m mansion

Tue, 16 Nov 2010 12:16:18 UTC

David Drumm must have been using idevelop.ie! The poor guy's stone broke yet he still managed to get painter and decorators into his home. He's bound to have used idevelop.ie's quotation system, making sure he got best value for money possible!

News

Estate agents failing to sign Code of Conduct

Tue, 16 Nov 2010 10:05:40 UTC

A huge amount of estate agents have not signed up to Code of Conduct. They are legally obliged to do so. Although the public has no way of knowing if their estate agent is signed up, they should still ask.

News, Property

Top judges get 9,000 euro tax-free allowance for home 'study'

Tue, 16 Nov 2010 09:40:38 UTC

If you are a judge you are allowed 9,000 euro a year tax free allowance for your own personal library. And this is an annual allowance because chances are your library is going to need upgrading next year. So if you are a judge, and its the time of year for a make-over, contact an interior designer or carpenter to revamp your study.

News

Energy reconnection fees may be halved

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 11:30:41 UTC

As massive numbers of homes of homes are disconnected each month, good news for consumers as reconnection fees may be halved.

Energy, News

Crisis as families battle to keep homes

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 10:14:02 UTC

The ESRI carried out a survey which has found that over 500 repossession cases appeared in the High Court in one month this year. It was also noted that a huge percentage (72 per cent) of those facing repossession took out their mortgages in 2006 and 2007.

Finance

Billionaire investor says now is right time to give home loans

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 10:13:33 UTC

Billionaire heads up consortium to purchase EBS, stating that his 525 million euro investment would show international markets that Ireland can attract overseas investment at a difficult time. At least we have a positive story doing the rounds in banking circles.

Finance

Receiver appointed to McNamara Construction

Fri, 12 Nov 2010 16:37:49 UTC

More bad news for the construction industry and worrying times for employees of the construction giant and for those who have interests in major projects that are currently in progress, such as Tallaght Institute of Technology in Dublin and Letterkenny Hospital in Donegal. It's owner, developer Bernard McNamara, is reported to have debts of a staggering 1.5 billion euro.

News

The sky's the limit for free TV!

Fri, 12 Nov 2010 10:21:59 UTC

Can a free-to-air satellite TV system costing just 59.99 euro compete with Sky Plus? Here a journalist puts a kit similar to one that went on sale in Lidl yesterday to the ultimate test.

Interior Decorating, Your Home

Property tax could raise 1.1 billion euro

Fri, 12 Nov 2010 10:21:31 UTC

A Property Tax would be most easily introduced if it was based on floor area, but such a tax would be unfair on lower income groups, according to a study by researchers at the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI).

Finance, Property

Growing your own Onions and Garlic

Thu, 11 Nov 2010 11:02:49 UTC

Nice little article giving you the low down on planting onions and garlic. Hurry though, time is running out to plant bulbs. If you want to know where to get certified disease-free cloves or bulbs, talk to a gardening expert in your area.

Gardening

Severe weather alert issued

Thu, 11 Nov 2010 09:58:53 UTC

Looks like there is a huge storm heading our way with gale force winds especially in exposed areas. Time to batten down the hatches as structural damage caused by high winds is a real possibility. If you are adversely affected by the storm, use idevelop.ie to help source roofers, joiners, electricians or plumbers in your area.

News

Homeowners face paying 80 euro a month property tax

Thu, 11 Nov 2010 09:58:51 UTC

The Government is putting out the feelers pre-budget, suggesting a property tax could be introduced. This would result in the average family paying almost 1000 euro a year, based on a home worth 240,000 euro.

Finance, Your Home

Old needn't be cold - but do shut that door

Thu, 11 Nov 2010 09:58:00 UTC

Here's an article with some solid hints and tips on making your home more energy efficient. Even simple measures like hanging curtains can make a huge difference!

Energy

Landlords who illegally retain tenants deposits will face a fine under plans to be brought before Government.

Wed, 10 Nov 2010 11:19:17 UTC

The move by the Housing Minister, Michael Finneran, comes as a housing charity published figures showing an increase in the number of cases last year where tenants had their deposits withheld by landlords.

News

Royal palaces get 'green makeover'

Wed, 10 Nov 2010 11:16:31 UTC

Fair play to the Queen...some of her homes are been retrofitted with 11,000 rolls of insulation. The great thing for her is that all of the insulation and installation will be donated free of charge. If you want to save energy and money, insulation really is the first change you should make to your palace (sorry!). Get a free quote from an insulation installer today or check out the range of insulation products that are on the market.

Energy

Mortgage issue hyped, claims Cowen

Wed, 10 Nov 2010 11:16:03 UTC

Yesterday in the Dail, The Taoiseach highlighted everything the Government has done to protect home-owners. At the same time Enda Kenny suggested that Fine Gael had tried to change NAMA legislation to provide more protection for those struggling with mortgages.

News

Titanic legal struggle gave homeowners sinking feeling

Wed, 10 Nov 2010 11:15:47 UTC

Possibly the most expensive court case in the state's history ended yesterday. The issue was with pyrite used in the construction of homes in Dublin. Neither developer nor concrete supplier claimed responsibility. However, after the dust has settled and millions spent, homeowners will have the problem rectified.

News

Almost 1,000 Tenants Illegally Evicted

Tue, 09 Nov 2010 12:38:47 UTC

There were almost 1,000 cases of tenants being illegally evicted by landlords last year and a significant increase in deposits being held on to by landlords.

News

Property and Water Taxes on table for the Budget

Tue, 09 Nov 2010 10:28:40 UTC

Property and water taxes are two easy ways the government can hit homeowners hard. The Greens had been pushing for the implementation of water meters to track water charges but it looks like this will be discarded (for the short-term at least).

Finance, Property

Hard-hit homeowners may 'park' part of loan

Tue, 09 Nov 2010 09:39:15 UTC

Some good news for those in financial difficulties...proposals will be put to Brian Lenihan, enabling homeowners to freeze repayment on a substantial part of their mortgage for a number of years. Also, the amount of homeowners that have renegotiated their mortgage has risen to 45,000 this year. If you are facing problems meeting repayments talk to your bank or lending institute.

Finance

Mellon confident charity in South Africa will continue building

Tue, 09 Nov 2010 09:38:40 UTC

In this article, Niall Mellon discusses his recent problems but remains upbeat about his charity house building project in South Africa.

News

Revenue is using Google to snoop for swimming pools

Mon, 08 Nov 2010 10:43:56 UTC

Big brother is definitely watching. Can't see them finding too many outdoor pools though.

Finance

Ghost estates set to haunt the property market for years to come

Mon, 08 Nov 2010 10:39:10 UTC

This article looks at some of the issues facing those living in ghost estates. These include those who wish to sell and those who are faced with basic problems, such as lack of infrastructure. If you are thinking of selling, talk to an estate agent who may be able to advise you.

News

EU ruling on building work could force up costs for homeowners

Mon, 08 Nov 2010 10:35:14 UTC

This is just another case of bureaucracy gone mad. Whilst health and safety is important, having to employ a health and safety coordinator on small extension or renovation projects is a step too far.

News

Severe weather ahead this weekend

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 14:47:25 UTC

Hopefully this weekend isn't a prelude to what we're in store for this winter as Met Eireann issues weather warnings for this weekend, forecasting wind speeds of up to 100km/h and flood warnings. At iDevelop.ie, we're here to help you with any home improvement work you are planning but you will also find every tradesman you will need in our iDirectory should the worst occur and your home needs repair work next week. Also, if this weather does keep up, then perhaps best to get some Home Insurance advice as well. However, at the end of the day the best advice we can offer is get the fire on, get settled in and stay out of the storm thats coming.

News

RTE wants YOU for new design show

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 14:24:40 UTC

Want to have a room redesigned by professional interior decorators? Or just want to be on TV? A new show from RTE is currently seeking participants. They will also pay up to 50 per cent of the overall cost of any refurbishment expenses.

Interior Decorating

Buy-to-let owners face losing trackers

Thu, 04 Nov 2010 22:36:13 UTC

Worrying news for anyone who has bought an investment property. Permanent TSB will seek for mortgage holders to start paying back capital on their second property or switch them from their tracker mortgage.

Finance, Property

Parsnips, turnips and beetroot - the roots of all good

Thu, 04 Nov 2010 22:35:27 UTC

Here's an article on the benefits of Root Veg and what you should be doing in your vegetable garden now.

Gardening

Council selling homes below cost on golf land

Thu, 04 Nov 2010 22:35:07 UTC

Apartment complex built on Dun Laoghaire golf course go on sale with many units aimed at first time buyers. Good news is that purchasers who have been refused mortgage finance from lending agencies may qualify for the Council's Home Purchase Loan scheme.

News

Salford gas explosion leaves 15 injured

Wed, 03 Nov 2010 10:45:05 UTC

Blast took place as the buildings were being renovated. Luckily no one was seriously injured. If you are carrying out any refurb or renovation work, make sure the trades-people you use are fully qualified and registered. Check our plumbing and electrical sections in ibuild for more details.

News

Economist who predicted housing crash says now is time to buy

Wed, 03 Nov 2010 10:43:40 UTC

Derek Brawn, whose book on the property market predicted the bursting of the bubble, said first-time buyers should buy now once they find a property at the right price. If you are considering purchasing a property, talk to an Estate Agent in your area. If buying a property for refurb, check out our building assessment guide.

Finance

Gilmore's wife got 10,000 euro for second site

Tue, 02 Nov 2010 12:03:05 UTC

Different political party ... same old story. There's nothing wrong with selling property but this surely is an embarrassment to the Labour Party. They have previously stated that its time for people to stop benefiting financially at the expenses of the state yet the leader's wife made over half a million for a piece of land now valued at between 50,000 and 100,000 euro. It's a really disappointing affair considering what the Labour Party has been preaching.

News

Free legal help for struggling homeowners

Tue, 02 Nov 2010 12:02:38 UTC

A group of barristers is aiming to bring a group class action against the banks to help those facing having their homes repossessed. They aim to help those who can't afford legal representation. There is no guarantee they will be successful but it will be interesting to see how they fare.

Finance

Window Dressing

Tue, 02 Nov 2010 12:01:49 UTC

Thinking of kitting out your home with new curtains or blinds? Here's a good article that gives good advice and information on how to make the most of drapery. Curtains can be expensive so contact Curtain and Soft Furnishing Suppliers in your area to find the best possible deals.

Interior Decorating

Why we're mad about Retro Design

Mon, 01 Nov 2010 17:02:14 UTC

This article interviews interior design professionals, commenting on a resurgence of interest in all thinks hip and chic from the 50's and 60's. To get inspiration and ideas read on. You can also contact Interior Designers in your area to see if they have any other ideas to make your home cool and sophisticated.

Interior Decorating

To rent or not to rent?

Mon, 01 Nov 2010 16:35:18 UTC

This is an interesting article for anyone caught in negative equity, yet wants to move their family to a bigger home.

News, Property

Insurance costs soar with home cover up 40 per cent

Mon, 01 Nov 2010 16:34:11 UTC

Home insurance costs have increased dramatically in the last 3 years. Insurance companies account this to a large increase in claims (due to abnormal weather conditions over last few winters). If you are renewing your insurance policy, it pays to shop around. Talk to an Insurance Broker or Agent and see if they can source you a better deal!

Finance

Burglaries increase by 30 per cent in October

Sun, 31 Oct 2010 16:31:39 UTC

There has been an alarming rise in the number of burglaries in Dublin. Homeowners are warned that this will increase even further as Christmas approaches. Homeowners should take precautions and ensure their home is adequately protected. Use idirectory to get free quotations on security equipment that will protect your home.

News

iDevelop.ie shortlisted for Eircom Spider Award

Fri, 29 Oct 2010 10:26:48 UTC

iDevelop.ie is delighted to announce that we have been shortlisted for an Eircom Spider Award. We have been shortlisted in the Listing Category. This award category recognises websites that provide users with a user-friendly and content-rich experience for finding products & services. Wish us luck! Good luck to all the other nominees.

iDevelop

45,000 euro price 'a steal' - but Wayne Dundon's next door

Fri, 29 Oct 2010 10:25:54 UTC

No pun intended! Estate agents are facing a challenge in the current climate but this takes the biscuit. Good luck to whoever has this property on their books...

News

Things that go bump...

Fri, 29 Oct 2010 10:24:56 UTC

We don't have Exorcists listed in our directory. Maybe it's something iDevelop.ie should look into.

News

Receivers to help reduce ghost estate oversupply

Fri, 29 Oct 2010 10:21:05 UTC

There are less 'complete and vacant' homes available than first believed. This is good news but the numbers are still huge. The Government now hopes that developers will take a large chunk of the properties in the 'nearly completed' category of their hands.

Finance

Built in the Boom, Priced for the Slump

Thu, 28 Oct 2010 13:57:04 UTC

Large luxury apartments by the Tolka river in Drumcondra are being sold by receivers from 210,000 Euro.

News, Property

Improving your home to sell? She'll show you how

Thu, 28 Oct 2010 09:31:37 UTC

This seems like a good idea, particularly for the potential house purchaser. However, at a cost of 2500 euro, will sellers get a return on their investment?

Interior Decorating, Your Home

Paralysis by analysis is not the way to sort out the housing debacle

Thu, 28 Oct 2010 09:21:36 UTC

This is an interesting article by former Fine Gael TD Ivan Yates. He questions why the Government has not put any effort into rectifying the current property market situation. A report on 'ghost estates' has been carried out but Yates calls on the Government to do much more.

News

Survey Shows Continued Increases in Sales Activity Nationwide

Wed, 27 Oct 2010 12:40:58 UTC

The IAVI quarter three residential property survey has just been released. The IAVI suggests that there has been a moderate increase in activity in the sector. The following is the press release from the IAVI with a link to the Q3 report. If you are considering either buying or selling use idevelop.ie to contact ESTATE AGENTS in your area.

Finance

Sub-standard Landlords

Wed, 27 Oct 2010 09:55:57 UTC

A piece in today's Irish Times Editorial calls for urgent reform of sub standard rented accommodation. As one in five private rental properties fail to meet basic standards, landlords must improve their properties. If you are a landlord, use idevelop.ie to help source trades-people or products to bring your properties up to standard. If you are a tenant living in sub-standard accommodation, inform your landlord of the legislation that has been put in place to protect your rights.

News, Property

CIF: Axe stamp duty to boost property

Wed, 27 Oct 2010 09:54:09 UTC

Tom Parlon calls on the Government to scrap stamp duty in the forth-coming budget. He claims abolition will give the construction industry a much needed boost. However, as Finance Minister Brian Lenihan has just announced that a savage 15 billion euro worth of cuts and taxes are needed, there is little hope of stamp duty being a thing of the past.

Finance, News

Scenes from a bygone era in Ireland

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 12:53:22 UTC

Design Week kicks off next Monday. It will be a week long celebration of Irish and International design. Here are a couple of events which may be of interest.

Interior Decorating

First-time buyers warned on staying out of market

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 10:17:26 UTC

Bit of a catch 22 situation for first time buyers as mortgage advisors suggest that increases in interest rates could hit house buyers in the long term.

Finance

Local authorities receive warning over 'ghost estates'

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 10:11:07 UTC

The Department of the Environment still undecided on the future of ghost estates, whilst a Housing Association in Mayo shows what can be done.

News

Property tax returns to the agenda

Mon, 25 Oct 2010 20:19:48 UTC

Again a difficult tax to accept is being proposed as part of the next budget, with so many pressures on home owners in terms of mortgages, energy bills, etc it is hard to see how a Property Tax can be justified or for that matter implemented with the dropping prices in the home market.

News, Property

1.3 million drinking unsafe water from problem plants

Mon, 25 Oct 2010 19:31:22 UTC

It can be very difficult at times to understand the moves to introduce a Water Charge but if the proceeds were used to ensure safe/clean drinking water is delivered to our homes, which is not always the case, then it would be a little easier to accept.

News

Berliners strip in protest at city's sky-high rents

Fri, 22 Oct 2010 09:53:12 UTC

Germans know how to make a point...protesting naked over 'extortionate' rents! As far as I know rent in Berlin is less expensive than in our capital. Time to get the paint out?

News

200,000 euro flats put on market for just 11,700 euro

Fri, 22 Oct 2010 09:50:32 UTC

Developer had hoped to recoup 200,000 euro per apartment. Now selling units at just under 12,000 euro.

News

Ministers' promises are cold comfort to forlorn residents

Fri, 22 Oct 2010 09:46:30 UTC

The Government has highlighted bad planning decisions and rezoning as the main contributor to ghost estates. They now insist the onus is on local authorities to clear up the mess.

News

120,000 Homes on Ghost Estates

Thu, 21 Oct 2010 14:37:39 UTC

There are more than 2,800 ghost estates in the country, according to a report from the Department of the Environment. Now that we are aware of the seriousness of the situation, major thought must be put into how best to tackle this problem.

News

Wives might have to forfeit transferred properties

Thu, 21 Oct 2010 10:55:47 UTC

The Government says it will look in to the issues of assets being transferred into the accounts of banking chiefs and developers' wives. Meanwhile, the government also claims it can do nothing to prevent those involved in the banking crisis from leaving the country. This is incredulous. They broke the law and absconded. Gardai can't interview guys like David Drumm now ... he's untouchable. It's an unbelievable situation.

News

Mellon selling in Kilkenny at a loss

Thu, 21 Oct 2010 10:51:10 UTC

Niall Mellon, whose charity built thousands of houses for the poor of Cape Town, is selling his 242-acre Kilkenny estate - now worth nearly half what he paid for it in 2005.

Finance, News

National price of houses hits 2002 levels

Thu, 21 Oct 2010 10:50:17 UTC

The fall of 1.3pc in house prices at the end of the summer was lower than previous quarters. However, as the market remains very quiet, experts say it was too early to conclude that prices are bottoming out.

Finance, News

Broadband Speed

Wed, 20 Oct 2010 19:43:01 UTC

A report was released yesterday placing Ireland ahead of countries such as Britian, Germany and the US, in terms of providing broadband services. Whilst this is to be welcomed, Ireland needs to do much to improve its broadband infrastructure to attract foreign investment. Also, many who live in rural Ireland still do not have access to broadband which puts into question much of the findings of this report.

News

Giant boulders: 'Causeway' stones fetch almost 20,000 Euro

Wed, 20 Oct 2010 19:39:05 UTC

Rare stones that supposedly originated from the Giant's Causeway are sold for a massive sum as National Trust are disappointed that such items should be sold privately. idevelop.ie feature garden boulders that cost significantly less. To purchase boulders, check out our Garden Products Section.

News

Residents demand public inquiry into Cork floods

Wed, 20 Oct 2010 19:34:03 UTC

Cork people frustrated as nothing has been done by the local authorities to reduce the threat of flooding. Neither flood defences nor an early warning system have been introduced. They are understandably worried, as many can no longer get insurance cover on their property.

News

October Competition Winners

Wed, 20 Oct 2010 11:23:19 UTC

The draw for our October Home Heating Oil Competition has taken place. And the winners are ...

iDevelop

Repossession heartbreak for family

Tue, 19 Oct 2010 10:54:53 UTC

A couple who owed 400,000 euro have house repossessed. A mother-of-four whose home was repossessed at the High Court yesterday said she could not cope with the stress any more. In tears in the courtroom, the Cork woman asked Mr Justice Brian McGovern to enforce the possession order against her family before Christmas.

News

Cut-price Nationwide apartments raise 16 million euro

Tue, 19 Oct 2010 10:54:04 UTC

Government recouping some money on Irish Nationwide's development in Booterstown. Meanwhile, it has been announced that another apartment complex will go on sale in 15 days near DCU, with prices also at half their original asking price.

News, Property

Is it the right time for your first time?

Tue, 19 Oct 2010 10:50:47 UTC

First time buyers are now the largest segment in the property market. This article talks to some first time buyers that are in the process of purchasing and to those trying to sell properties. If you are considering buying, contact an ESTATE AGENT in your area.

Finance, Property

I'm broke, says businessman who denies pocketing deposits

Mon, 18 Oct 2010 14:27:56 UTC

Karl Morris claims he was merely the middleman, facilitating the purchase of dream homes for his Irish clients. The clients have other ideas. They claim Mr. Morris has swindled their money and are pursuing a legal challenge. The main part of this story outlines the details of this affair whilst there are also two interviews with former clients that have lost large amounts of money.

News

Builders compete for small-scale jobs

Mon, 18 Oct 2010 14:24:30 UTC

Competition amongst contractors is fierce for all sorts of new build and smaller projects. Unlike the boom years, contractors now have to be much more proactive to ensure work. For the self-builder and home-owner, it is now much easier to hire a contractor. Ensure you get competitive quotes from Building Contractors by using our free quotation system

News

Don't just sit there, go out and fix that mortgage

Sun, 17 Oct 2010 14:21:36 UTC

Here's a good piece urging homeowners to switch from variable to fixed rate mortgages. One great piece of advice is to shop around. Loyalty to a financial institution no longer exists.

Finance, Your Home

One in ten reduce home cover as budgets tighten

Sun, 17 Oct 2010 13:56:18 UTC

Times are a lot tougher but care is needed when reducing levels of home insurance. Although house rebuild costs have decreased, the number of burglaries has increased. Insurance companies will advise against reducing cover (as it will result in less revenue) but you should really think carefully about the consequences of reducing your premium. Don't focus solely on the price of the initial premium - it may be costly in the long term!

News, Your Home

Fingleton's folly provides rich pickings for buyers

Fri, 15 Oct 2010 09:42:08 UTC

Some good news for the taxpayer (in a way). The first 20 apartments in Michael Fingleton's development sold in hours. Because of the demand, Irish Nationwide may consider increasing the sale price of the remaining units in the hope of the development breaking even.

Finance, News

Mediterranean islet put up for sale

Fri, 15 Oct 2010 09:41:45 UTC

Fancy owning your own private island in the Mediterranean? If you have 5 million euro in loose change, why not splash out?

News

Mortgage and energy costs keep consumer prices high

Fri, 15 Oct 2010 09:41:16 UTC

Consumables such as food, drink and clothing dropped significantly in the last years but on a whole consumer prices increased slightly thanks to big hikes in fuel and mortgage rates. Homeowners have seen the cost of their mortgages rise sharply in the last year with an average 250k mortgage repayment rising by up to 130 euro a month. Let idevelop.ie help you to offset these increases. If doing any home improvements or retroffiting your home use iproducts and idirectory to make sure you get the best value for money when looking for Products, Trades-People or Suppliers.

Finance

Coalition split over winter fuel assistance

Thu, 14 Oct 2010 10:33:45 UTC

The Labour Party yesterday raised the question whether the 80m euro set aside for the corporate re-branding for ESB and Bord Gais would be better spent on those struggling with fuel poverty. Cowen believes this rebranding will encourage people to retrofit their homes, thus reducing fuel poverty in the future. However, for those facing fuel poverty at the moment, millions spent (and an awful lot will be wasted!!) on advertising campaigns will not reduce the real difficulty they have in paying the bills.

News

Here's to making the most of a sweet surplus

Thu, 14 Oct 2010 10:32:28 UTC

Fond of home made cider or apple juice? Then this article is for you!

Gardening

Ireland has world's 10th largest ecological footprint

Thu, 14 Oct 2010 10:23:04 UTC

If this report is to be believed, then we should be ashamed of ourselves. For many years Irish people would believe that it was only rapidly developing countries such as China and India that contribute to global warming. For us, a supposedly first world country, to be in the top ten countries with the largest ecological footprint, is a disgrace. Homeowners must be more pro-active. To help reduce carbon footprint we must retrofit our homes with Insulation and use ecologically friendly technologies such as Solar and Biomass. We have a section which provides ideas and tips on making your home more sustainable. Even by making small changes we can reduce our footprint while saving money at the same time.

Energy

Boiling mad over boiler: one man's story

Thu, 14 Oct 2010 10:15:34 UTC

One Man and His Boiler. This article is about one man's relationship with his wood-chip boiler. He describes issues encountered purchasing the unit and problems with its operation. Read this article if you are considering purchasing a wood-chip boiler. It will at least make you aware of some of the issues you need to raise with your supplier. Check here to see our iproducts section on Biomass Boilers.

Energy

Calls to adopt 'NAMA for the people' initiative

Wed, 13 Oct 2010 11:45:01 UTC

Threshold's proposal here is a bit of a pipedream. I can't see the Government even entertaining the notion of bailing out home-owners in arrears. Even 'if' they wanted to, they won't have any resources left after their developer buddies are sorted through NAMA.

Finance, News

Family flee "Death Trap"

Wed, 13 Oct 2010 11:41:58 UTC

A report is to be released shortly outlining the extent of the problem we face in relation to 'Ghost Estates.. Estates that are already partly inhabited must be given priority. There are thousands living in unfinished estates all over the country. They certainly aren't living in an estate as advertised in the colourful brochure!

News

Fingleton's boomtime plans fall flat

Wed, 13 Oct 2010 11:39:09 UTC

Expected sale of luxurious apartments in dublin expected to make a staggering 21 million less than expected. 20 units are to go on sale this weekend.

News

Changing Gas supplier? - Check out the Rates

Tue, 12 Oct 2010 11:43:43 UTC

There are 3 Natural Gas suppliers in Ireland: Airtricity, Bord Gais and Flogas. All three companies are competing for your custom. idevelop.ie brings you the latest comparison on prices if you are considering changing suppliers.

Finance

Mortgage defaulters tell court they will be homeless in 8 weeks

Tue, 12 Oct 2010 11:18:28 UTC

This is the tragic story of two couples who appeared before the High Court yesterday who have lost their homes in possession orders. Startling fact is they were only two of 14 possession orders granted yesterday. Local authorities can refuse to place anyone, in this situation, on their housing list as they have 'voluntarily' surrendered their home.

Finance, News

Councils zoned land for million surplus homes

Mon, 11 Oct 2010 09:37:19 UTC

Some extraordinary figures have come to light in an article in the Irish Independent looking at the land zoning activities of Ireland's local councils, some of them having zoned more than 1,000% more land for building than was/is required

News

Check Small print before switching power supplies

Mon, 11 Oct 2010 09:03:33 UTC

Irish Homeowners are warned not to take all the price saving offers in the market on face value as with penalties for leaving contracts early, different standing charges and offers only applying to certain payment methods its not all black and white when choosing an energy provider.

Finance, Energy

How to save 1,000 euro in 30 mins with a few calls

Mon, 11 Oct 2010 08:22:24 UTC

This is a really useful article informing homeowners how they can save as much as 1,000 euro in a matter of minutes with a few phone calls, over and above the specifics of the piece the 1 thing to keep in mind that is that it pays to shop around and put that little bit of extra into getting the best price.

Finance

Warning to homeowners leaving fixed rate loan deals

Fri, 08 Oct 2010 16:46:48 UTC

As over 6,000 Irish mortgage holders come to the end of their fixed rates they have some serious questions to ask before making any decisions about what their next should be regarding their mortgage.

Finance, News

Give empty houses to diaspora, says TD

Wed, 06 Oct 2010 09:43:06 UTC

The following is a brief summary of yesterday's events at the RIAI annual conference, where Michael D comes up with a novel idea!

News

Man injured after house blast

Wed, 06 Oct 2010 09:35:48 UTC

What looks like an unfortunate accident leaves young Limerick man in a serious condition.

News

Burglars net EUR700m of goods in last decade

Wed, 06 Oct 2010 09:34:44 UTC

Figures from a new report on home burglaries are astonishing .... In the last year there has been an average of 73 robberies a day! Another startling figure is that 85% of break-ins occur while the house is occupied.

News

Talks over 'defective' Sheridan home

Wed, 06 Oct 2010 09:30:55 UTC

Jim Sheridan claiming EUR4 million for damage by water ingress in his coastal home, a problem he claims was caused by defective workmanship and materials. EUR2 million of this is for losses sustained after 2 potential purchasers pulled out after becoming aware of the problem.

News, Property

Large differences in Fire Brigade call out fees around Ireland

Tue, 05 Oct 2010 18:03:00 UTC

A real lack of a consistent policy/approach across the country to fire brigade charges and recouping of costs. A real lack of joined up thinking and personally if I was anywhere near the Tipperary North/South border I'll be calling the Fire Service in South Tipp

News

Council refuse to transfer couple from 'haunted house'

Tue, 05 Oct 2010 11:34:11 UTC

Who ya gonna call??

News

House prices 'plunge by a third'

Tue, 05 Oct 2010 10:30:52 UTC

'Experts' predict thgat the property market hasn't yet bottomed out as house prices have fallen a third since the peak. And it appears houses in rural locations are been hit the worst.

News, Finance

Legacy of bad planning

Tue, 05 Oct 2010 09:26:35 UTC

Says it all really..... a review of the National Spatial Strategy shows that it was a failure. Instead of major cities growing in size, small towns with populations of 10,000 or less spiralled out of control as councillors over zoned land for residential development.

News

Continued decline in construction tender prices

Tue, 05 Oct 2010 07:13:45 UTC

Continued reduction in Construction Prices means that home owners can find real value if they price around for any work they are carrying out as competition continues to increase amongst contractors.

News

October Gardening Tips

Mon, 04 Oct 2010 16:11:19 UTC

Here is a handy article on things to do in the Garden in October. It deals with most aspects in your garden: caring for flowers, the lawn, fruit and vegetables.

Gardening

Irish recycle more at home than at work

Mon, 04 Oct 2010 16:10:08 UTC

Today marks the first day of Repak Recycling Week, designed to highlight and encourage householders and businesses to recycle their used packaging. A survey finds that rates of recycling waste at work is very low in comparison to reycling that takes place in the home

News

Number of 'ghost' estates four times initial estimate

Sun, 03 Oct 2010 16:09:22 UTC

Report to be published soon on the thousands of 'ghost' estates around the country that pose a serious health and safety issue, not to mention a massive burden on the taxpayer.

News

Fashionable foliage

Sun, 03 Oct 2010 16:08:01 UTC

We think property prices were slightly over exaggerated during the boom? Well in 17th Century Netherlands, a tulip could cost as much as a house!

Gardening

New Taxes on the way

Sat, 02 Oct 2010 11:57:52 UTC

With a budget on the way in 2 months, speculation has inevitably turned to how the gap can be closed between Government income and expenditure. Some suggestions include having another look at the 'Bord Snip' report which advocates introduction of new taxes for Irish Homeowners such as Water Rates and Property Taxes, there'll be some interesting discussion but we think it will be difficult to see how a Property Tax can be imposed on so many people who have so recently paid out large Stamp Duty fees.

News, Finance

Renewable Energy working well in Ireland

Sat, 02 Oct 2010 11:48:14 UTC

A good news story for Renewable Energy production in Ireland, setting world records and getting international attention for the work that is being done. We've also information on how you can incorporate Renewable Energy generation into your home.

Energy, News

Barefaced cheek on Google Street View

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 14:44:37 UTC

Some of the main concerns of Google Street View have centered on Google and the world seeing the things we didn't want them to see and maintaining privacy, we never really thought about the problem of seeing things that no one ever really wanted to see. Read on for details of the first Irish 'Google Prank' to be identified, there are plenty of other international pranks and we're sure more Irish examples will come to light over time

News

Wind projects threatened by 'red tape'

Thu, 30 Sep 2010 10:38:40 UTC

After yesterday's announcement of a new wind farm to begin construction in 2012 in Co. Wicklow, it looks like delays are in store for most of the planned Wind Farms off the west coast.

Energy

Irish version of Google's Street View to go live today

Thu, 30 Sep 2010 10:36:51 UTC

How does the front of your house look? Nice coat of paint? Gutters in good order? Now all computer users will be able to check out your house on Google's Street View. It is not without controversy as many believe it's a good tool for burglars to do their homework.

News

Man for court over Dail protest

Thu, 30 Sep 2010 10:19:12 UTC

There are rumours going around that the driver of the concrete truck could face up to one year in prison. This seems a highly exaggerated but it will be interesting to see what happens today considering so many of the instigators of the crisis will never see the inside of a courthouse, let alone a gaol cell.

News

Anger at plan for new houses in ghost estate area

Wed, 29 Sep 2010 09:48:00 UTC

Interesting situation arising in Co. Cork, where planning permission has been granted for a new housing development. Cork County Council refuse to comment on the matter.

News

Ban on disconnection of domestic electricity users?

Tue, 28 Sep 2010 08:57:39 UTC

The Government may introduce legislation that will prevent service providers disconnecting customers. This is really important at a time when fuel poverty is becoming an ever increasing problem for many homes.

Energy

Will the 3D revolution be televised?

Tue, 28 Sep 2010 08:54:46 UTC

Around the start of the year, 3D TV was being branded as the next great thing since sliced bread! But since then there hasn't been much content launched. However, there are some improvements happening. Sony has updates for the playstation available and SKY are transmitting this weeks Ryder Cup in 3D. Theres a big downside .... to buy a 3D enabled TV will set you back a few grand and you'll only get 2 sets of glasses with the set. Whats up with that?

Interior Decorating

Smart card for energy users

Tue, 28 Sep 2010 08:51:50 UTC

Good idea from Airtricity...allowing users to pay off their utility bills in installments.

Energy, News

The Building Exhibition and Irish Sustainable Show 2010

Mon, 27 Sep 2010 12:12:06 UTC

The Building Exhibition and Irish Sustainable Show will take place between 7th and 9th October 2010 at the RDS (Simmonscourt), Dublin.

iDevelop

Leitrim half-price houses snapped up

Mon, 27 Sep 2010 10:52:30 UTC

House prices slashed in Leitrim. Neighbours bound to feel slightly aggrevieved that houses sold for less than half original asking price but also be relieved that they no longer live in a ghost estate.

News

Owners of damaged homes set to lose out on compensation

Sun, 26 Sep 2010 09:30:56 UTC

Bad news for the 18,000 to 20,000 affected by a problem with pyrite in their homes. Homebond states that their insurance policy may not be able to cover all claims

News

Nama may seize residential units for investment trust

Sun, 26 Sep 2010 09:29:25 UTC

NAMA wants legislation introduced, which will allow it to sell off thousands of properties to the general public.

Financial

Revamping your home for less

Sat, 25 Sep 2010 09:27:08 UTC

Here's the latest interior decorating craze...'up-cycling' It's basically recycling old items into something new when on a budget! Read three peoples' stories ...

Interior Decorating

Premium pains: claims make home cover difficult

Sat, 25 Sep 2010 08:53:18 UTC

If your house is burgled, you may find it hard to get quotes to renew your home and contents insurance, according to a survey by the National Consumer Agency.

Finance

Government 'can't stop mortgage hikes'

Fri, 24 Sep 2010 08:53:18 UTC

The Government uses our money to bail out the banks...yet has no say in the control of these institutions. Responding to yesterdays report by the financial regulator, which stated that consumers are being fleeced, the Government admits it is powerless to act on our behalf.

Finance

Ireland falling short of home insulation targets

Fri, 24 Sep 2010 07:28:30 UTC

It appears the Irish Government is going to have to have another look at the financial support/incentives to home owners to properly insulate their homes as it appears even the houses that are being insulated are not investing enough to complete the work properly

News

Plans for Ireland's first geothermal generator

Thu, 23 Sep 2010 21:21:12 UTC

Geothermal Power Plant set for South Dublin, an electricity production method used commonly in Iceland where 5 geothermal power plants produce approximately 24% (2008) of the nation's energy. In addition, geothermal heating meets the heating and hot water requirements of approximately 87% of all buildings in Iceland. Not a figure we'll achieve in Ireland but good to see more alternative renewable energy technologies being used in Ireland.

News, Energy

Banks 'fleecing' consumers with interest rates - Report

Thu, 23 Sep 2010 13:21:55 UTC

The Financial Regulator has just issued a report shows the homeowner is still being 'punished' for the sins committed by the financial institutions whilst any investigations into how the banking crisis occurred are taking far too long. We will be waiting to see if anyone will be held accountable for a long time to come!!

Finance

Stephen Ireland's Dream Home

Thu, 23 Sep 2010 13:16:10 UTC

When I was growing up I never wanted to be a footballer. Here's the reason why..... Stephen Ireland opens up his house to VIP magazine. Check out the photos below. P.S. Maybe I'm just a wee bit bitter about him not wanting to play for his country anymore, but whats with the turtle neck?

Interior Decorating, Property

Woman to sue council over unsightly Wheelie Bins

Thu, 23 Sep 2010 13:14:29 UTC

Sporadic collections mean residents must leave bins permanently out on the street. You can see why this resident is so annoyed. Can't see her winning a case on the basis that this problem has devalued her home. That will be impossible to prove but it's a good stunt to get the council to provide a more effective service. Good luck to her!

News

Over 110,000 Irish home energy customers in arrears

Wed, 22 Sep 2010 16:08:39 UTC

If you're experiencing difficulty paying your electricity bill, then unfortunately you're not alone, please contact your supplier ASAP to inform them before any sizeable arrears build up and to discuss a repayment plan. Take early action to avoid the possibility of disconnection.

News

Oil users told to shop around

Wed, 22 Sep 2010 10:23:49 UTC

It really pays to shop around, especially with a commodity as expensive as home heating oil. The advice from this article is to check prices with a number of suppliers. Even better...idevelop.ie will pay for your oil - see details of our competition below.

News, Energy, Your Home

It's Hysteria Lane for Grandmother

Wed, 22 Sep 2010 10:18:02 UTC

You have to feel for this lady. Makes you wonder why the local resident's association would pursue such a trivial matter, considering none of them live on the lane. Just plain crazy!

News

Dream Homes Exhibition - Sligo

Tue, 21 Sep 2010 16:26:55 UTC

We have some tickets available for this show to give to our members. To be in with a chance of winning a pair of tickets please email us with your name and postal address before 6pm Wednedsay.

iDevelop

House on the Beach ... L.A. Style

Tue, 21 Sep 2010 16:15:54 UTC

If only we had the weather?! Amazing house though...Check out the photos

News

Single farmer snaps up stately home listed at EURO 7.5m

Tue, 21 Sep 2010 16:13:12 UTC

No recession here...as mansion is sold for undisclosed sum. An unmarried Irish farmer is the new owner of an 18th-century Palladian mansion on 444 acres of land overlooked by a historic castle.

News

Win Free Home Heating Oil with iDevelop.ie

Mon, 20 Sep 2010 11:26:55 UTC

Here at idevelop.ie, we don't want to be the bearers of bad news .... but winter is coming!! The evenings are getting shorter and the weather colder!

iDevelop, News

Insulate to protect against price hikes

Mon, 20 Sep 2010 11:24:23 UTC

According to this article fuel poverty is becoming an ever increasing problem in this country with approximately 80 households a day having their electricity supply disconnected. The author proposes upgrading your home's insulation and availing of the Government's "Home Energy Saving Scheme" grants. Everyone should consider improving their insulation. There is the initial cost but payback period for insulation is relatively quick. Also included in this article are general tips on saving energy around the home that require little or no capital investment.

Energy

Right there Michael, are you right?

Sun, 19 Sep 2010 11:19:34 UTC

Do you remember a few weeks ago, a Galway Man created a stir by putting his house on the market for 1 Euro? The journalist who wrote this piece thought he would see if the house has been sold yet.

News

Bulbs that shine bright

Sat, 18 Sep 2010 16:14:36 UTC

Here's an article on buying and growing bulbs in preparation for Spring, next year. It gives good advice on what and where to plant!

Gardening

Nearly 600 homes identified as having high levels of Radon Gas

Fri, 17 Sep 2010 10:56:30 UTC

The article below reports on the huge problem radon gas presents in Irish homes. Radon is deadly and every measure possible should be taken to prevent the harmful effects of this natural gas. We give advice for those building in our ibuild section and we also provide products which should be used in construction. Existing homes should also carry out a test to monitor radon levels. Kits are available to carry out these tests. Every home should carry out one of these tests to make sure they are being protected.

News

Home Choice Loan an option for first-time buyers

Fri, 17 Sep 2010 10:54:42 UTC

What do you do if you can't get a first time mortgage? Try the Government's Home Choice Loan Scheme. It's another avenue to pursue if at least two mortgage lenders turn you down. The scheme offers one of the lowest interest rates on the market. It has its detractors however. Fine Gael have branded the scheme an embarrassment as approximately only 100 applications have been received so far. But if you are thinking about buying it is most definitely worth investigating. Find out more about the scheme.

Finance

First-time buyer rules upended property pyramid

Thu, 16 Sep 2010 12:37:21 UTC

This article looks at what sectors the banks are lending to (or not as the case appears to be - lending is down 40% compared to same period last year) and the implications to the wider market.

Finance

Cottage for sale - Piece by Piece

Thu, 16 Sep 2010 11:09:17 UTC

Cottage for sale in Wicklow. Problem is you will have to relocate it! However, if you want to get your hands on some reclaimed building materials perhaps you can find a bargain here as the entire property (not just the contents) will be auctioned off.

News, Property

Open House: Ireland's Biggest Architecture Festival

Wed, 15 Sep 2010 11:21:00 UTC

Details on Ireland's biggest architecture festival, allowing citizens to explore the Dublin architecture, including buildings of all types and periods.

News

Selfbuild Extend & Renovate Show Review

Tue, 14 Sep 2010 14:25:39 UTC

idevelop.ie had a really busy and successful weekend at the SelfBuild Extend & Renovate show in Citywest, Dublin. The amount of interest we received was phenomenal.

iDevelop

Keeping your home spick and span

Tue, 14 Sep 2010 14:23:05 UTC

Here's some 'Autumn cleaning' hints and tips courtesy of a lady called Margaret McMullin. She is director, senior housekeeping tutor and bespoke staff trainer at Greycoat Academy in the UK, so we're guessing she knows her stuff.

Interior Decorating

Tracker customers in a fix as lenders alter rules.

Mon, 13 Sep 2010 14:22:00 UTC

According to a survey carried out by the Irish Independent/Consumer Show most lenders will not allow homeowners to switch back to a tracker mortgage if they opt to fix their mortgages for a period of time.

Finance

Facing negative equity on completion of contract

Mon, 13 Sep 2010 08:49:24 UTC

During the property boom, buying off the plans with only a deposit looked seductive - but that was in a rising market, this article looks at the options for individuals facing into negative equity on sales agreed at the height of the propery market.

Finance

NAMA? No Way!

Fri, 10 Sep 2010 16:49:03 UTC

Irish Developer brings in big guns to argue against transfer of his loans to NAMA

News, Finance

Making a home in the centre of the city

Thu, 09 Sep 2010 16:18:44 UTC

Here is an interesting article about one person's experiences of buying an apartment in Dublin city and a discussion on the property market for apartments.

News

Innovative Architecture & Design

Wed, 08 Sep 2010 08:55:24 UTC

Check out this great design from Poland. This takes the definition 'Transforming Your Home' to a whole new level!!

News

Dealing with Crazy Tennants

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 09:00:12 UTC

Finding the perfect tenant can't always be easy. If you are renting your property, then hopefully you won't experience anything like the cases below. The article highlights some crazy incidents between landlords and their tennants in the UK and also describes how video inventories can be used to protect landlords' interests.

News

Vegetable Garden tasks for September

Mon, 06 Sep 2010 13:32:11 UTC

September is the transition from late summer to early autumn. Harvesting is the main job in the vegetable and fruit garden this month, and dead heading, pruning and weeding the main job in the flower garden.

Gardening

Green planning minister bids for property tax up to 600 euro

Mon, 06 Sep 2010 10:39:53 UTC

Green Party claims Ciaran Cuffe's views on property taxation are personal and do not represent Green Party policy. Don't be surprised though if this proposal is included in the forthcoming budget.

Finance

SelfBuild Extend & Renovate Show

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 11:18:07 UTC

The SelfBuild, Renovate and Extend Show is back again this year and idevelop.ie will be there! This Expo is one of the best shows in Ireland for those with an interest in selfbuild, renovation and extension.

iDevelop

Knock knock? Who's there . . . in the market

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 14:00:23 UTC

Here is a pretty accurate analysis of the state of the property market in Ireland today. It highlights that the real movers in the market are refurbished properties so if you are considering selling your home, it may a good investment to refurbish your home to the highest possible level.

Finance, Property

House for sale, any offers over 1 euro considered

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 13:58:30 UTC

It will be interesting to see how this story develops. Either an a crazy or very shrewd PR move by Galway man!

News

Lawn Care for September

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 09:17:24 UTC

Traditionally September is the time you should be assessing your lawn and formulating a plan carrying out any major renovations or improvements in the autumn.

Gardening

Off the wall designs from Milan Furniture Fair

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 09:13:24 UTC

Players in the design world bring their A-game to the Milan Furniture Fair 2010. But "A-game" is a relative term! Check out some of the less conventional pieces on show...

Interior Decorating

Mortgage defaults: cut a deal with lender, or just cut and run?

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 12:05:04 UTC

Not a nice subject to have to deal with but hopefully the advice in this article will be of some use to people who find themselves in this terrible situation

Finance, Your Home

Is this the right time to get back into buy-to-let?

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 09:45:36 UTC

Those considering property speculation will find this article interesting; in many cases up to 50% capital will be needed upfront with banks really tightening lending criteria.

Finance, Property

Household energy bills to rise

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 09:14:33 UTC

Now is the time to really consider retrofitting your home with insulation and eco friendly renewable products. Cost of electricity and heating your home to increase as volatile international fuel prices to pile on the pain, warns commission.

Energy

Forty shades of grey

Sat, 28 Aug 2010 09:42:23 UTC

Here's some advice on choosing shades for painting your home. It appears the trend for bright bold colours is waning.

Interior Decorating

Dilapidated chalet tops asking price in positive sign for market

Sat, 28 Aug 2010 07:29:36 UTC

It's all about location, location, location but Wexford auctioneer see positive signs for property market

News

Soaking up the rays from nature's flowering giants

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 14:45:19 UTC

Here's an article on advice on how to really brighten up the garden - by growing sunflowers

Gardening

How can I tell if I'm overpaying on home cover?

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 14:45:19 UTC

These days every saving can help. Pay special attention to part in this Q&A piece that states 'Insurance companies will not reduce sums insured unless instructed by the homeowner'. However, be careful not to undervalue your property.

Finance, Your Home

House Purchases Up Slightly

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 14:40:11 UTC

It's much too early to say if this signifies the end of the housing crash especially if seasonal factors are taking into consideration. Even though purchases are up this quarter, the amount of mortgages being drawn down is significantly lower than this time last year. This suggests either the banks are simply not lending or buyers are still convinced prices will fall.

Finance, Property

Landlords lay claim to property at scenic spot

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 16:26:03 UTC

Locals in picturesque Sligo village unsure of land rights after descendants of original landowners threaten legal action. Home 'owners' face distressing wait to discover what legal rights they have.

News

Fixer-upper prices fall as banks go cold

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 15:59:00 UTC

Here is a good article if considering carrying out a refurb project. Banks are extremely unlikely to lend for renovation costs so make sure you have adequate collateral to carry out this work. This will involve carrying out a budget estimate for this work prior to purchase. Having a good understanding of renovation costs will also give you a stronger bargaining position with the vendor.

Finance