West Cork Property FAQ

West Cork Property FAQ is your go to place to get your property questions answered. Majella Galvin estate agent, chartered surveyor, registered valuer and property expert is here to answer your property queries.

If you have a property query send in your question by email to majella@mgalvin.ie

Will selling my parents’ Co Cork home ‘off-market’ reduce my chances of achieving a good price?

Hi Majella, I am planning to sell my parents’ home, which is in rural Co Cork, this summer. However, I’ve lived overseas and, given the distance, I want to keep things as simple and stress-free as possible. A friend suggested selling the house off-market, but I’m unsure what that involves and how it works in Ireland right now. is it a viable option for selling my parents’ home, or would it limit my chances of achieving a good price? Could I end up selling for less than I would on the open market? I’d like to know the pros and cons of selling this way versus using more traditional methods, so I can make the best decision for my situation.
Thanks for your help, Robert.

Many thanks for your query, Robert. Selling a home from overseas might feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone — many people find themselves in the same situation and are looking for the easiest and least stressful way. You want a smooth sale, minimal hassle, and a good price.

Will selling off-market make the process easier, or could you be missing out on a better deal? Let’s break down what an off-market sale involves and examine whether it’s the right option for you.

An off-market sale means the property is sold without being publicly advertised on major websites or through traditional media and marketing channels.

Instead, an estate agent discreetly introduces it to a select group of pre-qualified buyers. This method can be appealing for those who prioritise privacy, speed, and a more controlled sale process. It avoids public viewings, online listings, and large-scale advertising, which some sellers prefer. Off-market sales are becoming more common in Ireland, particularly for unique or high-value properties. However, a successful sale using this method depends on the strength of the agent’s network and their ability to match the property with serious buyers.

You don’t give any description of your parents’ house or its condition, but presuming it’s a family home and given the strong demand which currently exists for all property types across Ireland — and I’m sure the area where your parents’ house is located is no exception — an off-market sale could be a viable option.

Price, price, price

One of the biggest considerations is price. Selling off-market means fewer buyers see the property, which can limit competition. On the open market, a property typically benefits from broader exposure, potentially leading to multiple offers and a higher sale price.

However, in cases, an off-market sale can achieve a strong price, particularly if the property is highly sought-after and the right buyer is found quickly.

It ultimately depends on the desirability of the property, and the buyers that are available at the time.

If you decide to explore an off-market sale, the process typically involves:

• Consultation: You discuss your selling goals with an estate agent who advises on the best strategy;
• Targeted buyer search: The agent reaches out to serious, pre-qualified buyers who are actively looking for properties like yours;
• Private viewings: Instead of public viewings, only vetted buyers view the home;
• Negotiation and sale: If a suitable buyer is found, negotiations take place privately, and the sale moves forward.

Why choose an off-market property sale?

Selling off-market can be beneficial, especially for sellers who prioritise discretion and simplicity. Here’s why some go down this route:

• Privacy and discretion: If you want to keep the sale low-key, an off-market approach avoids public advertising, which can be useful for personal or financial reasons;
• Fewer viewings, less hassle: Since only serious buyers are approached, you won’t have to manage large numbers of viewings or open houses, which is particularly helpful when selling from abroad;
• More control over the process: With targeted marketing, the sale can be handled in a more structured way, reducing the stress of unpredictable offers or extended time on the market;
• Potential for a faster sale: Without the need for a broad marketing campaign, the process can often move more quickly. The focus is on connecting with buyers who are ready to proceed.

While an off-market sale can be beneficial for privacy and speed, selling on the open market (through private treaty or auction) usually offers the best chance of securing the highest price by attracting more buyers. Given you’re based overseas and want a hassle-free process, the key is finding a trusted local agent, who can manage everything on your behalf. No matter which path you ultimately choose, preparation is crucial

Preparing the property for sale

• Get your legal documents ready: Ensure all title deeds, tax records, and planning permissions are in order;
• Obtain a BER certificate: A building energy rating (BER) certificate is legally required before selling a property in Ireland;
• Declutter and stage the home: Even for off-market sales, presenting the home well can make a big difference in attracting the right buyers;
• Consult a solicitor: Having a solicitor in place early will help prevent delays once an offer is accepted

What happens next?

The next step is to consult with a local, experienced estate agent who understands the area and the current market.

They can provide you with a valuation and help you weigh the pros and cons of different selling methods, ensuring you make an informed decision based on your goals.

While selling from overseas presents challenges, with careful preparation and the right guidance, you can manage the process with confidence and assurance..

The above article was published in the Irish Examiner in February 2025. Majella Galvin is chair of the membership and public affairs committee of the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland. A chartered surveyor, estate agent, and registered valuer at DNG Galvin auctioneers, Bandon, she has been working in the property sector for more than a decade.

If you have a property related query or issue you would like to raise with Majella, please email irishexaminerpropertyqueries@scsi.ie

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