Savills has revealed that €267 million worth of prime country homes were sold in 2025, with transaction volumes rising by 15.5% despite a slight softening in overall values.

The firm defines the prime country homes market as residential properties outside Dublin, north Wicklow, and main regional cities with a value of €1 million or more.

The data highlights a market that remains active but is evolving, with a growing number of transactions concentrated at the lower end of the prime price bracket. More than half of all sales (53%) were between €1 million and €1.25 million, reflecting how sustained house price inflation has expanded the pool of properties entering the “prime” category.

Regional markets outperformed Dublin in 2025, with house price growth outside the capital reaching 8.1% compared to 5.5% in Dublin. Savills attributes this to improved housing delivery in the city constraining price growth, while more limited supply in regional areas continues to push values upward. Cork led the activity, accounting for 21% of total sales, while counties within commuting distance of Dublin represented 44% of transactions.

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Irish buyers remain the backbone of the market, with lifestyle changes and hybrid working driving demand. Nearly half (45%) of Irish purchasers sought to upsize, favouring larger homes in rural or coastal locations within reach of urban centres. International buyers made up 31% of transactions, primarily purchasing second homes in scenic or remote areas.

Downsizing continues to fuel supply, accounting for roughly half of all sales, reflecting Ireland’s high level of under-occupied housing. Savills notes that increasing downsizing options could unlock additional market supply in the future.

Looking ahead, Savills expects activity in the prime country homes market to remain steady through 2026, with moderation in price growth at the top end. Buyer focus is shifting towards turnkey homes with strong energy ratings, while older properties may face more challenging conditions.

Commenting on the report, Cianan Duff, Divisional Director, Country Residential at Savills Ireland, said: "The prime country homes market has delivered strong transaction volumes, but the composition of activity is changing. While €1 million remains the entry point, a growing proportion of transactions are now occurring at the lower end of that range, reflecting the impact of house price inflation in recent years.

"Irish buyers continue to underpin the market, particularly those looking to upsize and take advantage of more flexible working patterns. At the same time, international demand remains an important driver, especially in coastal and lifestyle locations.

"Looking ahead, we expect activity to remain consistent, but pricing will become more selective. Turnkey homes with strong BER ratings and good locations will continue to command a premium, while older stock may require more careful positioning."