Posts by Laura

It has been another week of mixed messaging about the likely impact of the recent lockdown on the wider economy. This morning, the Irish Times ran an article headed:  ‘Irish consumers’ rally fuels hopes economic shock will be less than feared’, which is tentatively positive. This headline is based on findings from the most recent KBC…

All things are relative. Despite surprisingly upbeat commentary over the past three weeks, this week revealed that while Covid-19 has had little impact on house prices to date, the volume of sales is down by 29 percent to 35 percent, depending upon the region in question. In the Irish Times this week, one particular headline…

“Be Fearful When Others Are Greedy and Greedy When Others Are Fearful” This is probably one of the most overused – and misinterpreted – quotes from the revered Warren Buffett. It has become something of a cliche, but one that has served bold property investors in Ireland well over the past turbulent decade. We have…

Earlier this week, the Irish Times reported on a letter sent from the Institute of Professional Auctioneers & Valuers (IPAV) chief executive, Pat Davitt, to Minister for Finance, Paschal Donohoe. In this letter, the IPAV chief calls for a revision of the current help-to-buy scheme so that first-time buyers of second-hand homes can avail of…

As Week 2 of Phase 1 draws to a close, we still do not have confirmation about the planned move into Phase 2, although it is looking positive so far. Construction has ramped up significantly over the past two weeks, which was no small feat given the cost and logistical challenges of ensuring compliance with…

“Entrepreneurs are simply those who understand that there is little difference between obstacle and opportunity and are able to turn both to their advantage.”-Victor Kiam A decade is not a long time in the context of the property market. Historically, this equated to one cycle of increasing demand and decreasing supply, right through to peak…

While this is unlikely to surprise anyone, a report published by the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection this week shows that the construction industry is amongst the hardest hit since the start of this pandemic. As of last week, 80% of Ireland’s construction workers are now receiving state support. This has contributed hugely…

Earlier this month, the CEO of one of Ireland’s newest eits, Yew Grove Reit, detailed publicly why he believed the organisation was “insulated” from Covid-19. It might have seemed somewhat appeasing for shareholders, however, as the business funds are primarily invested in offices and industrial holding, with government and blue chip tenants, this assertion might…

n business – as in life – we are advised to focus only on controlling the controllables. This is difficult to do in the midst of an unfolding pandemic that threatens human life, State resources and our economic stability. But it is important advice. In addition to helping with the national effort, we each must…