Second homes are different. And second-home owners see themselves as being different to the holiday-home renter or passing tourist. For the vast majority, this home is an investment in one’s lifestyle or quality of life as opposed to an investment property.
It is a big commitment of time, energy and money. “Very few invest without needing a high return in terms of low-key, quality family time”, says Ron Krueger, managing director of Kinsale-based estate agent Engel & Volkers, “with many intending to retire to the second home as soon as possible”. “I would never have been keen on the notion of a second house. But we work hard and being able to come here regularly, without much fuss, has had a hugely positive impact on our family life,” says one new second-home “local”.
Seamus Galvin says Derrynane GAA Club values the contribution of second-home families. They know them well. Hanging out with local children has nurtured a loyalty to the club that helps fill its summer Cul Camps and significantly bolsters the income derived from fundraising events.