A rural housing shortage has been widely reported as a barrier for next-generation farmers in Co Laois and Co Offaly, and the fact that just two farms with residential accommodation sold across both counties last year underscores the issue.

That’s why this 26ac residential farm is likely to turn heads on both sides of the border. Split into three blocks around a Y-junction in Kilkeeran, Portarlington, between Co Laois and Co Offaly, the holding has strong starter appeal.

Set on a 2.5ac parcel, the two-bed cottage was occupied until recently and, while it could benefit from modernisation, is in good condition. At 92sq m, it is compact but well-serviced, with scope for expansion, subject to the necessary permissions.

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The yard includes a three-span shed, seen here, along with several outbuildings.

Across the road, a 12.5ac plot includes a farmyard with a three-span loose shed, several agricultural outbuildings and a general storage area. The remaining 10.5ac lies across the junction, facing the house and yard. Reseeded in recent years, the land is in very good condition.

Together, the two land blocks provide 450m of frontage, indicating possible site potential, pending planning approval. While currently in pasture, all three lots have previously been cropped and are suited to a range of farming enterprises.

Occupied until recently, the house is in good condition.

Listed with Hennessy Auctioneers, the holding will be auctioned online via the LSL platform on Thursday 12 November at 3pm. It will be offered as follows: Lot 1, 12.5ac with farmyard, guided at €175,000; Lot 2, 10.5ac of reseeded land, €175,000; Lot 3, the cottage on 2.5ac, €250,000; Lot 4, Lots 1 and 3 combined, €425,000; and the entire, €600,000.

As a whole, the farm will likely appeal to new entrants and next-generation farmers, while the separate lots offer flexibility for local farmers seeking to expand or buyers seeking a rural home with a good-sized plot.