Maggie Molloy has one of the most challenging jobs in Ireland; As the perpetually chipper host of RTÉ's Cheap Irish Homes, she has been tasked with finding reasonably priced properties for buyers on a budget.
This year, to lend her a helping hand, a new building expert has joined the ranks in the hopes of finding the country's most well-hidden gems.
With building engineer Kieran McCarthy leaving the show, Kerry-based architect Tadhg Casey will now be stepping in to help and advise budget-conscious house hunters as they search for a bargain home.
Although Molloy previously told RTÉ Lifestyle that finding a home in Ireland can "feel a bit like a lottery", new opportunities may be uncovered thanks to the recent Vacant Property Refurbishment and Derelict Property Grant scheme, which is aimed at assisting buyers in finding and investing in their forever home.
A vocal advocate for the regeneration of Ireland's smaller towns and villages, Casey believes that the lessons of traditional Irish architecture can help create vibrant and sustainable communities.
"My work focuses on refurbishments of traditional homes as well as new house designs rooted in Irish heritage," Casey said. "I'm passionate about preserving and revitalising Ireland’s architectural traditions and using local materials and sustainable methods."
Raised on a dairy farm in North Kerry, Tadhg credits his rural upbringing with shaping his hands-on
approach to architecture.
Maggie has already been impressed by Tadhg. "He’s really passionate about breathing life back into old houses," she says. "It’s great that Tadhg can share his knowledge with our house hunters, who are often overwhelmed by the thought of buying a property that may need a lot of work."
2025 Applications
Cheap Irish Homes is currently looking for people to take part in the new series, so if you would like Maggie and Tadhg’s help, please get in touch with the production team at cheapirishhomes@av3.ie.
