Waterford Property Watch January 2026
The Waterford property market experienced a relatively slow start in January, reflecting trends seen across the country. Limited supply continues to favour sellers, as buyer demand remains strong. However, very poor weather conditions during the month did little to help activity levels and have added to the challenges faced by buyers. Competition for available properties remains intense, with constant bidding against other buyers making the process particularly stressful.
According to the Irish Examiner, the Irish housing market remains tightly constrained, with the number of homes available for sale still at historically low levels. Daft.ie data shows that there were just over 11,500 second-hand homes on the market nationally in December 2025, less than half of the pre-COVID average of 26,000.
Closer to home, a report in the Waterford News & Star shows that house prices in Waterford city and county reached record highs in 2025. The average price of a second-hand three-bed semi in the city rose to approximately €345,000, up 10.6% year on year and the highest level ever recorded locally. In the wider county, prices increased by more than 10% to around €295,000.
In Waterford, 32 properties were registered as sold on the Property Price Register during January, reflecting the low supply levels.
Liberty Blue Buyer Snapshot – January
- Average achieved over asking: +10%
- Average time to sale agreed: 21 days
- Buyer mix: First-time buyers and trader-up purchasers
Despite the upcoming changes to rental legislation, there continues to be strong interest in properties that appeal to both investors and first-time buyers. We are still seeing opportunities emerge in the market, including a recent sale of a 2-bedroom, top floor apartment that was listed at €150,000 and offered a rental yield of 9%, well above typical levels, and attracted active competitive bidding. This property achieved 8% over the asking price. This highlights that well-priced, well-located properties can still perform strongly shows that there is still great value in Waterford.
Rental Market
The rental market in Waterford remains tight. A total of 55 rental properties were listed during January, highlighting the limited choice available to tenants.
One of the biggest talking points within the rental market is the new rental legislation, mainly the new Tenancy of Minimum Duration rules, taking effect from 1st March.
On February 12th at 12:30 pm, our Portfolio Manager, John Darcy hosted a webinar with Mary Conway, chairperson of the Irish Property Owners Association explaining the new Landlord Bill due to come into effect and what it means in real, practical terms for landlords. Spaces are limited. Click on the video below to view this webinar.
2026
While it’s still early in the year, we’re confident that more properties will come to market in the months ahead, helping to ease current supply pressures.
Whether you’re thinking of buying, selling, investing or simply exploring your options, 2026 presents real opportunities for those who are well informed and well prepared. If you’d like tailored advice on the Waterford market or want to discuss your next move, contact us today.