Dublin’s pain could be Portlaoise’s gain – so say a group of auctioneers.
Speaking to Midlands 103, CEO of the IPAV, Pat Davitt, says that Midlands towns like Portlaoise could benefit if builders made constructions here now.
Mr Davitt was reacting to reports in Dublin of queues to buy a house starting before its even on sale.
He believes that if finance is given to more builders and developers, the demand of those who no longer can afford to live in the big cities could be met.
He said: “In towns like Portlaoise, Mullingar, Tullamore and Athlone, house prices now have moved on a bit.
“A 3-bedroom semi-detached is probably up in the €200,000s or the short €200,000s.
“So we’re into a situation where builders can apparently build at these prices and can get some profit.
“So we believe that builders should be building because the commuter belt is spreading.
“There are more people coming and looking at these towns now and they can afford to buy here but can’t do so in Dublin.
“So we should be building to corner off that demand.”
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