County Cork - Cork - Galway

Nestled in the South-West region of Ireland, County Cork, known as "the Rebel County," holds its unique place in Irish history. From its historic landmarks such as the Blarney Castle to the captivating beauty of the West Cork coastline, Cork is every history connoisseur and nature lover's delight. Its geographical location is blessed with lush landscapes, winding coastlines, and an enchanting mix of mountains and flatlands, offering an ideal backdrop for luxurious living. Cork's vibrant city life coupled with its serene countryside gives it an edge over other counties, making it the second most populated county in Ireland.

Luxury Real Estate Market in Co. Cork

The current exclusive property market in County Cork is very stable, with a healthy balance between supply and demand. The economic and political status is also steady, which further adds to the attractiveness of the luxury property market in this region. Buyers should expect to pay around 1-2% of the property's selling price as a real estate commission, whereas sellers are typically charged 2-4%.

Additional Costs and Taxes

When purchasing luxury properties in Cork, one should consider additional costs, which include notary fees, realtor commissions, potential construction inspection costs, and legal costs. The transfer tax on private property stands at 1% up to €1,000,000 and 2% on the remaining amount above €1,000,000. There is no wealth tax on private homeownership in Cork, but income tax percentages vary depending on your income bracket, with highest being 40% for income over €70,044.

Mortgage and Financing

Mortgage lenders in Cork generally require a deposit of a minimum 10% on residential properties and up to 30% on investment properties. The maximum amount one can borrow is typically 3.5 times one's gross annual income.

Prime Residential Areas and Accessibility

Cork boasts several prestigious addresses where luxury homes are located, including the affluent suburbs of Blackrock and Montenotte. As for accessibility, Cork is well served by an extensive road and rail network, with the closest big city being Limerick, which is approximately 100km away. It’s also well-serviced by Cork Airport, which offers both national and international connections.

Education and Infrastructure

Education facilities in and around Cork include several prestigious institutions like University College Cork and Cork Institute of Technology. As for infrastructure and amenities, Cork has excellent public facilities and amenities, making it a vibrant place to live.

Co. Cork Lifestyle and Amenities

County Cork is located in the province of Munster and is home to around 542,868 residents. The region is admired for its natural environment filled with striking landscapes, pristine waters, and a mild climatic condition - perfect for a host of sports and outdoor activities like golfing, hiking, and sailing.

Luxury Shopping, Hospitality, and Entertainment

For luxury shopping, Cork provides a wealth of options, including Brown Thomas and Mahon Point Shopping Centre. In the hospitality sector, the illustrious Hayfield Manor Hotel and Restaurant lead the pack. Cork's nightlife is vibrant with elite spots like the upscale cocktail bar; Cask.

Cultural and Historical Attraction

Cork's art and cultural scene is rich with institutions like Crawford Art Gallery reigning supreme. Annual events such as the Cork Jazz Festival also attract an elite crowd. As for healthcare facilities, the Bon Secours Hospital and Mercy University Hospital provide top services. In conclusion, Cork boasts a luxurious and comfortable lifestyle that rivals the best in Ireland and Europe. Its stable real estate market and impressive infrastructure make it an excellent choice for luxury home seekers.