Looking for advice on buying a family home in Dublin (€350k budget)

I am a 38-year-old first-time buyer currently living with my parents in Dublin. I have Approval in Principle, around **€50k saved**, and I am saving **€3,500–4,000 per month**.

I work near **Leopardstown**, and my wife and our **two young boys** will be joining me, so I am looking for somewhere we can settle long-term. My ideal budget is around **€350k**, although I could stretch a little for the right property.

Ideally, I would like:
A **3-bedroom house** (although I would consider a spacious 2-bed in an excellent area).
An established, family-friendly neighbourhood rather than a new-build estate.

Good schools, parks and amenities.
Reliable public transport to the city centre (train, Luas or good bus services).

A reasonable commute to Leopardstown by car or public transport.
I have been looking quite a bit in **Adamstown**, but I would love to hear from people who know Dublin well.

If you had my budget and priorities, which areas would you recommend? Are there any hidden gems that I may be overlooking? Likewise, are there any estates or areas you would avoid?

I would really appreciate advice from people who have lived in these areas or recently bought there.
Thanks in advance!

Posted Jul 11, 2026, 1:16 PM UTC

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