Larkhill Lodge knocked down at €1.52 million

By Shirley Busteed

15 September 07: Outside interest dominated proceedings at last week's auction of Larkhill Lodge, Drumagh, Crettyard, Co Laois. Standing on 68 acres, the property came to the market with an immaculate five-bedroom residence, built just four years ago. It's understood that no locals were in contention at the auction.

Selling agent Joe Coogan, Castlecomer, opened the bidding at €1.2 million. With the help of three active customers, the sale price shot up to €1.5 million, at which stage, the property was declared on the market. A further two bids saw the hammer fall at €1.52 million, (€22,352/acre) to a man from Co Offaly, who is believed to have connections in the area. It's understood that both underbidders were from the Kildare area. A guide of €1.5 million was quoted prior to auction.

Owned by a building contractor who has spend most of his life in the UK, the property was used in the past as a beef farm, operated alongside a sizeable greyhound kennel business.

Set out in one 68-acre block, the property comes with a 4,600 square feet residence, a small courtyard comprising 10 stables, and a farmyard.