2019 was a busy but tough year for the property market in Waterford.
That's according to Auctioneer John Rohan who says there are numerous reasons why it was difficult getting sales over the line.
"We were making the sales but to try and get them across the line was difficult, it was taking far longer than normal.
"Towards the end of the year, we found sales were closing, people were getting keys and people were moving on.
"Maybe finance, dealing with solicitors, there's a lot more detail in it now.
"It's heartbreaking, it takes so long to get a sale over the line.
John Rohan says finance is a major problem for people trying to get on to the property ladder and particularly difficult for those renting at the moment.
"Couples are trying to buy houses, a lot of people need help from family because they're not just getting enough from the banks.
"Families, we are finding, are definitely intervening, are definitely helping people to get on the ladder to try to but their first house
"It is virtually impossible to rent and save at the moment because to rent a property in Waterford can be anywhere from 750 to 1000 a month
"That's an awful lot of money for people to pay in rent and also to be trying to save to purchase a house.
"That's what's holding the market back a bit."
