A number of agents around the country tell me that they have quite a few farms on their books for Spring 2017 which is a promising prospect for anyone who is in the market to buy. As evident from last year though, when these farms will be marketed is likely to be significantly influenced by the weather and what the next three to four months bring. In my view, a number of sellers held back from putting their farm up for sale last year in the hope that 2017 would not only bring a better spring in terms of weather but also improved commodity prices for farmers. Only time will tell.

To this end, selling agent Henry O’Leary, Clonakilty has just launched a 98-acre residential holding to the market at Carrigcannon, Kilbrittain, Co Cork. This is a region that not only features excellent quality land but also hosts an intensive farming population making the appetite for land particularly buoyant. Consequently, some handsome prices have been realised for land in the area over the years but a firming in the market was evident during the first half of 2016 when milk prices fell.

Just three miles from Kilbrittain and Ballinspittle, the Carrigcannon property has been used as an out-farm for the past number of years, primarily for tillage (about half) while the rest was used to harvest of silage. Sandwiched between Bandon and Kinsale, the property is set to generate a nice level of interest in the coming weeks, particularly from farmers who are eager to expand their land base and rarely get a chance to buy land due to its infrequency to the market.

Split by a county road, the house and yard on circa 82.7 acres lies across the road from a circa 15.3-acre block. With the exception of circa 3.5 acres that would benefit from some attention, the land is reported to be in great heart and has been well farmed down through the years. Laid out in a range of field sizes, the perimeter fencing is in excellent condition and the fields around the house are well sheltered by mature trees.

Although in a derelict site, the remains of the two-storey stone-built farmhouse suggests that it was a substantial residence in its day. It’s understood a fire a number of years ago ravaged the roof and interior. Outside, there is a three-bay hayshed with lean-to, a cow byre and a range of other outoffices.

Although early days, interest is emerging in the house and yard which is being offered on 1.3 acres. For some, the house will be perceived as a major restoration project while others will view it as almost guaranteed planning permission to build a replacement house. Apparently, the fact that the house is situated within walking distance of Gurraneasig school - which is a renowned primary school in the area – is considered a major plus.

In the event that someone might like a bit more land, it’s suggested the 15.3 acres, which sits directly across from the house, would make an attractive hobby farm package. Gently sloping, the southerly aspect allows for expansive sea views out towards Harbour View, Howe stand and Courtmacsherry Bay, making it a particularly attractive site.

Described by Henry as “having something for everyone”, the property is being offered in one or four separate lots that include circa 42.3 acres; circa 39.1 acres; circa 15.3 acres across the road and the house and yard on circa 1.3 acres. Each lot features good road frontage. To date, local and outside interest has emerged for the entire and the lots. The property is guided in the region of €12,000/acre.