Former rectory on market for €175k

The former rectory on Keadue Lane in Cavan Town, that once housed the former Cavan Vocational Education Committee, has been listed for sale with a guide price of €175,000.

The iconic Italianate-style, three-bay, three-storey building, situated on a prime scenic 2.07 acre site just off Cathedral Road, has been described as having both “residential and commercial” potential by sole selling agent, Raymond Smith.
The Buildings of Ireland website, which keeps a record of such historic properties across the county, notes that the former rectory building is a “good example” of mid-Victorian domestic architecture and is 'built to a high architectural standard'.
It is also regarded by the authors of the site as being 'an important element of the architectural heritage of Cavan Town and its former use as an ecclesiastical residence lends additional historical and social heritage interest'.
With a floor space extending to 372.5 sq m, and multiple spacious rooms set over each of the three floors, the former rectory was listed for sale last week by Smith Property on behalf of a private investor.
“It has been in their ownership for the past 20 or so years, and in that time, for a period it was the home of the former county VEC or what is now [Cavan-Monaghan] ETB.”
The price reflects the fact that while the property is still in “good structural condition”, though it will require some refurbishment and decorative works before being brought back into use.
“It needs a full refurb inside but, other than that, the roof is still in good condition and the external structure is still very sound. It sits on a site of around two acres in an area with prime development potential.”
Mr Smith suggests that any potential buyer could return the property to residential use, either singular or by converting the interior to high-end bespoke apartment accommodation. He even suggests the building could also be commandeered for community use as a resource centre.
“It could be reinstated as a home as it started out as in its initial days, but with investment to turn it into apartments. It could be brought back into use as offices as we saw during the VEC days, or even used by a local group as a resource centre. What's certain about the old rectory is there is plenty of potential there. It's located only a short distance from Cavan Institute, Johnston Library, Cavan Courthouse and all amenities within Cavan Town centre so there is potential there for many, many things.”
Although the property was only listed for sale last week, there has been some positive initial interest already.
“It is the kind of building when it comes to market you'd expect to see interest in. There have been a few enquiries. It's probably too early to even say at this stage, but there has been some interest, which is good to see.”
Viewing and inspection of the former rectory on Keadue Lane is by strict appointment through Smith Property, with full details, floorplan, sitemap and brochure are also available by contacting the selling agent.