Land prices eased in Co Waterford last year to average €15,083/ac. This was a drop of 9% or €1,489/ac from the average the year before. However, land in the county is still among the dearest in the country and well above the national average.

Supply of land for sale was up last year. Forty-one farms with 2,362ac were placed on the market with 16 selling by year end.

Most of these holdings were good quality land and that was reflected in the prices made. Prices ranged from a minimum of €9,474/ac to a maximum of €30,208/ac.

There were a number of strong sales early in the season. REA Spratt sold an 81ac farm, with a derelict house, at Ballyhane, Cappoquin at auction.

After 21 bids from five individuals, it sold under the hammer at €1.95m or over €24,000/ac. The buyer was reported to be a dairy farmer.

Brian Gleeson Auctioneers sold 54ac with a farmyard at Carrowgarriff, Cappagh, at auction. Four bidders made 17 bids after which the farm was knocked down at €1.08m to a local farming family.

Dairy farmers were the most active buyers of land in 2024, but business investors made their mark too.

Vital statistics

Average*: €15,083/ac

% change on 2023: -9%

Acres offered: 2,362

Total number of farms: 41

Price range: €9,474/ac to €30,208/ac

Most active buyers: Dairy

Weighted average: €14,734/ac

*Number of transactions: 16