Former Ireland footballer Colin Healy selling spacious Rylane home for €495k

The property market is often influenced by the personal lives of high-profile individuals. The current listing of a family home in Rylane, Ireland, previously owned by former Republic of Ireland footballer Colin Healy, offers a case study in these dynamics and the broader trends of relocation and property value.

A Career Trajectory and Property Investment

Colin Healy’s professional soccer career began with Ballincollig and Wilton Utd, leading to a move to Celtic in 1998 at the age of 18. He subsequently played for Sunderland and other UK clubs, earning 13 international caps for Ireland by 2002. In 2007, coinciding with his debut for Cork City, Healy purchased a home at No 4 Meadowfields, Rylane, during what was described as the peak of the “Celtic Tiger” economic boom.

From Playing Fields to Coaching Commutes

The Rylane property served as a base during Healy’s playing career and later, as he transitioned into coaching roles. He first coached at Cork City, and then served as assistant boss to Eileen Gleeson, manager of the Republic of Ireland’s women’s national team. Currently, Healy commutes 90 minutes to Mounthawk Park Tralee as manager of Kerry FC.

The Property Details

The almost 2,500 sq ft property features four bedrooms, two ensuite bathrooms, and two reception rooms, along with a kitchen/dining area and a utility room. Barry Auctioneers, guided by Joe McCarthy, is handling the sale, listing the property at €495,000. The home boasts a B2 energy rating, potentially qualifying buyers for green mortgage rates.

Did You Know? Colin Healy purchased the property in Rylane in 2007, at the height of the Celtic Tiger economic boom, reportedly paying top dollar for the newly-built home.

Interest in the property is coming from families in Ballincollig, Blarney, Macroom, and Cork city, seeking to “trade up” to a larger home. Its location, approximately a 35-minute drive from Cork city, offers a balance between rural tranquility and urban accessibility. Blarney and Macroom are approximately 15 minutes away.

Expert Insight: The sale of this property highlights the common pattern of individuals adjusting their housing needs as their life stages evolve, moving from larger family homes to more manageable properties as children become independent. This trend can influence local property markets, creating opportunities for families seeking more space.

What’s Next?

Should the property sell at or near the asking price, it could signal continued strength in the Cork property market, particularly for family homes in commuter-friendly locations. A quick sale may also encourage other homeowners in the area to consider listing their properties. Conversely, if the sale takes longer than anticipated, it could indicate a cooling of demand or a need for price adjustments. It is also possible that the property will appeal to buyers seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle with convenient access to urban amenities.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did Colin Healy purchase the property?

Colin Healy purchased the property at No 4 Meadowfields, Rylane in 2007.

What are the key features of the property?

The property has almost 2,500 sq ft of space, four bedrooms (two ensuite), two reception rooms, a kitchen/dining area, and a utility room. It also has a B2 energy rating.

Who is handling the sale of the property?

Joe McCarthy of Barry Auctioneers is guiding the property sale.

How do changing life circumstances influence property decisions?