Meath house prices to keep rising in 2017

House prices in Meath are predicted to rise by 1.8 per cent in 2017 as the lack of supply of suitable new homes continues to dominate the market, estate agents have predicted.

A survey carried out by the Real Estate Alliance Group has shown agents expect prices in the county to continue to rise – but at a slower rate – after the 6.4 per cent growth experienced in 2016.

The outlook for the commuter areas surrounding the capital is quite cautious, with counties around Dublin predicting a rise of 3.8 per cent on average and many agents fearing that the market has hit its height under the current financial regime.
This comes as the REA Average House Price Survey revealed that prices in Meath had increased by €12,500 over the past year – with the average three-bed semi now costing €207,500.
Navan saw prices grow by 8 per cent to €185,000 in 2016, Kells rose by 10 per cent to €165,000, Trim increased by 8.3 per cent to €195,000 and Ashbourne was up 1.8 per cent from €280,000 to €285,000.
“The Central Bank rules easing off will have a positive effect on the market. It seems to be easier to get a mortgage but the loan approval lifespan is too short for many buyers,” said Michael Gavigan from REA T&J Gavigan in Navan.
Agents expect prices nationally to rise by 6.1 per cent over the next year.