The lack of a national register of house prices could do untold damage to the economy and delay the country's economic recovery. That's according to the Construction Industry Federation (CIF), which has called on the Government to create the register to constantly track the movements in house prices. The call comes following the news of the recent cancellation of the monthly ESRI/Permanent TSB House Price Index.

Despite expectations, the average price of renting a property went up in Galway City over the last two months. This is in tune with the national tends and was the first time rents rose month-on-month in the last two years. However, it is not time yet to run out and buy a venture property with the intention of leasing.

O'Donnellan & Joyce is bringing six properties up for auction this Friday 26 February in the Victoria Hotel at 3pm. Exceptional interest is expected in this major auction as each property has a very attractive reserve price (minimum price) in order to achieve sales. There is tremendous variety on offer from houses in the city centre for first time buyers to homes in the country.

A new report has shown signs of promise in the mortgage industry for the last three months of 2009. While the volume of new lending for mortgages was more then 50 per cent down on 2008, a slow-down has been detected in the rate of decline and this is giving cause for optimism to those in the property sector.

Inismore, Aran Islands
Here is your opportunity to own a wonderful property on Inismore, Aran Islands. Situated approximately half a mile from Kilronan Village and the airstrip, this is a wonderful three-bedroom property with amazing uninterrupted views of the ocean and surrounding countryside.

Where once people baulked at high commercial unit lease prices, now there is not as much trepidation. Colin Bartley reports The cost of leasing a commercial unit in Galway in the main has come down, which is good news for those people who are thinking about starting up their own business.

Knockacarrigeen, Belclare, Co. Galway
This property at Knockacarrigeen, Belclare really has the 'wow' factor. This fabulous looking property of 2,200 square foot is in immaculate condition throughout. Situated approximately 28 kms from Galway, this house was built in 2004 and has been finished to the highest of standards.

Homeowners currently holding a tracker mortgage are being warned to stay with their current plan to avoid being hit by increases in variable rates. The announcement last week by Permanent TSB that it was about to raise its variable interest rates by a half a per cent on mortgages was met with dismay by many and insiders are saying this may not be the last increase this year.

20 Cappenaveagh, Salthill, Galway City
This two double bedroom, ground floor apartment is located in the heart of Salthill and has huge potential with a little upgrade on this generous floor space. The layout comprises a small porch with ample storage that leads to a large, L-shaped living/dining space with open fire and semi-oak flooring.