Huge response to discounted rent homes at Google’s Bolands Mills

Over 2,300 applications for 46 apartments, located at Google’s Bolands Mills quarter, offered by Clúid at below market rents.

The scheme comprises of 35 two-bed apartments, 10 three-bed apartments, and one larger three-bed apartment. These homes, specifically designed to support key workers in the local community, have generated significant interest, highlighting the demand for discounted rent housing solutions in Dublin.

Of the 2,300 applications, only 23% have met the eligibility criteria, underscoring the importance of applicants understanding the specific requirements set forth for these homes. The initiative aims to provide homes at discounted rent to key workers specifically, ensuring they can live within the communities they serve. The eligibility criteria for these homes include stipulations around affordability, household size, and other essential requirements.

“There has been a phenomenal response to our discounted rent homes at Bolands Mills,” said Eibhlin O’Connor, Chief Commercial Officer at Clúid. “This initiative is a testament to our commitment to providing homes at below market rents to key workers who are vital to the fabric of our community. The numbers applying also demonstrate the need for increased supply of similar homes at discounted rents. If people are still interested in applying, we urge them to familiarise themselves with the eligibility criteria to ensure a smooth application process.”

According to data in the latest Daft.ie report (Q4 2024), rents at Bolands Mills are significantly lower than the market. The two-bed apartments are advertised at €1,710, 26% below current market averages for two-bed homes in Dublin 4. The standard three-bed apartments, at €1,850, are 36% below current market averages for 3-bed homes in the area.

“We worked hard to discount the rents as much as was financially viable to maintain the homes over the lease period. All the homes are unfurnished, although they have flooring, blinds and essential white goods such as fridge freezers, microwaves, washer and dryer”, explained O’Connor. “The Bolands Mills development represents a step forward in addressing the housing needs of Dublin’s key workers. By offering homes at discounted rent, Clúid aims to alleviate some of the financial pressures faced by these essential community members. However, the huge volume of applicants shows that there is much more to be done in this area. Clúid is open to partnering with other companies who may be inspired by this project and want to bring their own discounted rent homes to market.”

The application process remains open on clúid.ie/discounted-rent and Daft.ie until 5 March. As there are more applicants than apartments, all eligible applicants will be entered into a lottery. Applications will then be assessed by a third-party provider, Occu Living. These apartments will be ready for the selected residents in Spring 2025.

More information on the apartments and eligibility criteria can be found on cluid.ie.