If you are thinking of buying to rent, think of the location your tenants might want to live in. Assess the neighbourhood in general too. Is it well-maintained and predominantly owner-occupied? You should also note whether there are good schools, decent public transport, and shops or supermarkets nearby. All good signs that your long-term investment is that little bit more secure. Here are some pointers about Dublin’s commuter towns:
Maynooth
Maynooth may be a university town, but nowadays, more and more are choosing this charming Kildare location as their forever home. And it’s easy to see why. First, the leafy college campus is an ideal spot for a weekend jog or stroll. Foodies will be delighted with Maynooth’s stellar reputation for restaurants. For kids, there’s a well-equipped playground and several schools, including an Educate Together and Gaelscoil. Transport links are excellent thanks to the local train station, and the town is served by both Dublin Bus and Bus Éireann. The commute time by rail to Dublin Connolly is just 45 minutes.
Navan
Navan is a fantastic option. This historic Meath location has so much going on. Culture vultures get the multidisciplinary Solstice Arts Centre. This beautiful building boasts a gallery, theatre and café. Sport fans are well catered for here too, with GAA, athletics and even a cricket club in the locality. The beautiful Boyne River cuts through the town, and the scenic Boyne Ramparts Walk (8k from Navan to Slane), is perfect for a Sunday stroll. For families, Navan has some great schools, and there’s Tayto Park nearby. Traffic is a factor in commute time here, but you’re only looking at about one hour each way into Dublin city.
Naas
Naas is another established Kildare town with a strong sense of community. A 45-minute trip by car to Dublin, it’s also serviced by Bus Éireann and the nearby Sallins and Naas train station. Naas has plenty to keep people occupied; a local cinema, a feast of restaurants, and even its own theatre. There’s a longstanding farmers market every Sunday morning too, and a handful of independent coffee shops. There are local GAA and Rugby clubs and a local choir. Families are well catered for here as well, with a playground, historical walks, and lots of schools to choose from.
Skerries
A relaxed pace of life by the sea, but still close to the city for work, Skerries is a north Dublin seaside town. Set against a truly idyllic backdrop, it’s got buckets of charm and a strong sense of community. Residents enjoy an evening walk along the beach with panoramic views of the five islands that surround this pretty town. The local Skerries Sailing Club is welcoming of new members, and has a great reputation. It’s easy to get into the city too; Skerries is serviced by Irish Rail, and the average commute time from Dublin Connolly by train is a manageable 35 minutes.