For an all-too-brief period Dublin rental prices came down after the crash. However, according to the Q4 2015 rental housing report, rental prices are only €30 cheaper than in 2007.
Reasons for Dublin's expensive apartment pricing include a lack of supply (we're still building at a rate we were nearly 50 years ago for a population which has practically doubled since then); the painfully slow pace of rebooting the construction industry; the banning of bedsit accommodation (although this is a positive as so many tenants were paying way above what's fair for substandard accommodation); and poor mortgage relief rates for landlords.
The reason I've mentioned the above points is to highlight the fact that although many Dublin or suburban dwellers would love to live in their dream home with the large garden and the spare bedrooms and office space, a lot of city dwellers find that they must live in more affordable, small space dwellings before their dream becomes a reality. Our own rent has gone up 30% since we first moved in three years ago. The new extension of rent reviews from 12 to 24 months gives people that little bit more breathing space in an otherwise suffocating situation.
So if you're living in a small apartment, studio or house, there are ways to make the most of your space. The first step is being able to identify any problem areas. Then carefully plan solutions and carry them out at to an affordable but acceptable standard. Let's take a look at some potential problems and how you can overcome them. These aren't tricks or life hacks, just simple, honest tips for helping you create a snug space to live in & love.
Have a great weekend everybody.
'Til next time,
Ciara Eloise .