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To celebrate the first day of Spring, we have compiled a list of our team’s favourite tips and tricks for cleaning around the house, using all-natural ingredients. A safer alternative to harsh chemical products that is cheap, eco-friendly, and just as effective! Have a read below to find some tricks to follow for your Spring Clean this year!

Mattress

If we are spending a third of our lives in bed, its important to keep it fresh to get the best night’s sleep. Mix four drops of your favourite essential oil or home scent with baking soda and sprinkle it directly over the mattress. Let it sit for at least an hour and vacuum it up.  Last step is to enjoy some beauty sleep! 

Pots & Pans

Whether you wash your pots and pans by hand or pop them into the dishwasher, the bottom of the pan always needs a bit more elbow grease to get it back looking brand new. Sprinkle baking soda over any burnt areas and pour vinegar on top. Any stains can then be easily scrubbed away. They will be back sparkling in no time!

Drains

To keep your drains smelling fresh and to combat any build-up of odour, pour a kettle of boiling water down the drain, followed by a cup of soda crystals and vinegar. Add a drop of your favourite home scent if you wish and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes. Flush everything down with another kettle of boiling water, and you are done!

Washing Machine

A clean washing machine will keep your clothes feeling fresh and new for longer. Pop baking soda directly into the drum of your washing machine and run it on a high temperature. This will gently scrub the inside and fight any mildew from old fabric softener left behind.

Microwave

Hidden in the corner of the kitchen, the microwave can often be neglected. To get it back looking and feeling brand new, fill a microwave-safe container with water and add a few lemon slices and a few tablespoons of baking soda to remove any odours. Pop your container into the microwave on high for 3 minutes and let it sit there for another five. The steam will then let you wipe off any dirt without any hassle!

Doran Estates Celebrating 15 Years in Business

Established in 2005 by the late Frank Doran, this year Doran Estates are delighted to be celebrating their fifteenth anniversary.

The business was founded on a simple proposition – to provide a first-class service to each individual client alike – and fifteen years later the family-run property business, now led by Frank’s daughter Bridget-Anne, has grown to a team of ten passionate employees working together to deliver great results to our clients in both the sales and rental markets across Dublin, Kildare and Meath.

In 2018 we made the move to our new purpose-built office, a bright, open and collaborative space where our team can welcome clients and provide practical and professional advice at every stage of the sales or rental process. This year as part of our anniversary celebrations, we have also rebranded Doran Estates and launched a new website to give our clients a more accessible and streamlined user-experience.

On our 15^th anniversary we have so much to celebrate and be grateful for but what we really want to say is thank you. To our clients, our community and everyone who has supported the business over the years, your relationship with Doran Estates is incredibly important to us and has allowed us to help countless people in the local area to achieve their property goals.

Our company slogan is ‘Our Door is Always Open’ so stop by at 308 Kimmage Road Lower where one of the team will be delighted to welcome you and offer free and friendly advice no matter what your property needs are.

Bridget-Anne Doran, Director of Doran Estates, speaks with Tallaght Echo journalist Maurice Garvey on adapting business models to withstand the pandemic. 

‘’During this time of unprecedented uncertainty, we were faced with many challenges. I am proud to say that as a team we took these obstacles within our stride and adapted accordingly to best serve our clients while keeping staff safe. Although, the pandemic presented challenges for us as a business we accepted the new obstacles and found ways to adapt our business model accordingly. The pandemic encouraged creativity in our approach for each service we offered. We altered our communication style ensuring that we were staying connected with clients on a daily basis even though we had to stay apart. We arranged virtual viewings to distill our message that our door is always open. Personally, I believe that the pandemic conveyed that we are extremely dynamic in our business approach and I’m very grateful for every client, supplier, and team member that worked with us during these trialing times. 

There are currently eight employees working for Doran Estates. I can say without a doubt that we would have not made it through this whirlwind of uncertainty without the dedication and passion that each team member has displayed. Each employee was committed to accomplishing their assigned tasks and going above and beyond for our clients even under these challenging circumstances with a can-do attitude during these unique times has been nothing short of inspiring. I’m incredibly proud and beyond thankful for the employees at Doran Estates. I’m delighted to see the team back in the office. The office has been fitted with perplex screens and staff have been provided with PPE to ensure their safety. Although it will be a different form of working style that we are used to we will go on, adapt, and grow. ’’

Read more of the interview here

Out with the old, in with the new.

Welcome to the new Doran Estate website. As you may have noticed we have updated our branding. During this extraordinary time we have taken the opportunity to reflect on our beginnings and envisage where we see ourselves over the coming years enabling us to create a new brand image that best represents Doran Estates and the premium service that we provide.

Over the past fourteen years our steady growth has brought new clients, new team members, and moved us into a new modern purpose built sales office located on a high street. The new identity had to satisfy all of the existing expectations of what our original identity stood for, while simultaneously moving the brand forward to acknowledge the maturity, accessibility, and excellence of our service.

You will see it’s not just our logo that is changing. We’ve changed our website, our social media, our messaging, and our focus is still on helping our clients to succeed. What we’re saying shouldn’t be unfamiliar to our existing client base.

We are proud of what we have achieved at Doran Estates over the last fourteen years and we owe our success to the team members, the partnerships that we have made and the clients that have supported us along this tough journey.

We owe this rebrand to all of you.

Our Door is Always Open!

Stay Safe, Stay Home.

A letter to our clients

During this time of unprecedented uncertainty, all of us here at Doran Estates are concerned about the safety and well-being of our families, colleagues, clients, suppliers and the many friends.

Our hearts are with those who have been affected directly or indirectly by the outbreak of coronavirus (COVID-19). We are truly inspired by the selfless healthcare workers around the world who are on the front lines working tirelessly to care for people in need.

Working remotely

We have an experienced team at Doran Estate that are here for you. For the purpose of safety, our team are currently working remotely however we are still fully contactable over the phone and via email during our normal hours of business between Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.

Property viewings

Unfortunately, viewings for advertised properties have been interrupted due to the current situation. In certain circumstances, we can offer video tours and virtual meetings with prospective purchasers and tenants. We will be communicating with our clients directly to confirm our available services.

Maintenance

Following the government’s instructions, we are still able to promptly address any essential maintenance, such as major plumbing issues or loss of electrical power, etc. Regarding non-essential works, we are continuously liaising with all third-party contractors in relation to their service provisions. Please note certain services may be interrupted.

On behalf of all the team at Doran Estates we are committed to working with you to provide a continued service that will see us through this pandemic.

Stay Safe, Stay Home.

Renting during Covid-19

Covid-19 has brought significant challenges to both landlord and tenants. On the 27^th of March, the Dáil passed an emergency legislation which included measures to protect and support tenants during this uncertain time.

The Covid-19 Act 2020 introduced moratoriums on both rent increases and notices of termination. This means that rent increases and notices of termination cannot be issued while this legislation is in place. If either was issued prior to the 27^th of March 2020, its effect is paused until the legislation is lifted. The legislation is to be lifted three months following its commencement, however it may be extended depending on the Health Authories advice to the government.

Advice for tenants renting

While tenants are obliged to continue to pay their full rent, the government have taken several measures to provide tenants with financial support. If you are renting and your employment has been affected by Covid-19, we recommend that you apply for rent supplement which is a means-tested payment from the government. The Covid-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment may also be available to you if your income has been affected. In order to apply for either payments, you can contact your local Intreo Centre by phone or email. For safety purposes, the applications can be done online so you do not have to visit the Intreo Centre itself.

For further information on the emergency measures taken during Covid-19, the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) have a helpful download available to the public, which answers frequently answered questions on the subject. Please click on this link to download their guide.

When selling your property, there are few small things you can do to help you achieve the best price possible. Our agents here at Doran Estates have shared their five top tips to prepare your property for sale and help you put your best foot forward. You will be surprised what the extra effort can achieve.

Space

In order to maximise space, it is important to remove all unwanted items. Where possible, storage rooms should be almost empty in order to show people the potential of the space available. Personal items should be tucked neatly away within cupboards. If your property is unoccupied, it might be advisable to keep larger items of furniture in place, such as beds and sofas, as it makes it easier for purchasers to comprehend the size of the rooms.  

Squeaky Clean

A squeaky-clean house can make a huge impact to the demand of your property it creates a terrific first impression. Items such as clean floors, bathrooms, countertops and gleaming windows can make a massive difference to how people view your property. Sometimes, a professional clean might be advised to present the property in a sparkling condition!

Freshen Up

You would be amazed of the difference a touch up of paint can make to a property. A fresh coat of paint can revive and brighten a tired space. If the floor covering is worn, fresh carpet or lino can also help people visualise comfort within the property. We always recommend sticking with a neutral colour as it gives a fresh and modern appearance which appeals to a wider audience.

Repairs

Even small items of disrepair within a property can immediately turn a prospective purchaser at a viewing. Items such as broken door handles or loose sockets should be repaired to show potential purchasers that the property has been cared for. For all works that are carried out, please ensure to use a registered professional.

Setting the Scene

The property should be aired out in advance of viewings. During the summer, curtains and blinds should be opened in order to maximise the amount of natural light throughout the property.  For winter months, the heating should be put on an hour before viewings and all lightbulbs should be in working order. A scented candle or plug-in air freshener can really make a difference.

Ultimately, by following these tips, you are putting your best foot forward.

It’s a known fact that Dublin is an overly populated area. According to an article by RTE, published in January 2020, Dublin is the world’s 17^th most congested city. To escape from the grid lock traffic, the endless queues and the higher property costs, more people have begun to trade the city for the calmer and open commuter towns.  There is a long list of built up commuter towns, we’ve explored three that we think are great.

Ashbourne, Co. Meath

Ashbourne is an established town in the South of Meath with a strong sense of community. Since the millennium, Ashbourne has seen a substantial rise in the population following the launch of several new housing developments within the Town.  The Town Centre has become a hive of activity with many boutiques, shops, restaurants, pubs and coffee shops located all within walking distance of one another. The Town Centre also hosts popular supermarkets such as Tescos, Dunnes Stores, Aldi and Lidl. Ashbourne offers great employment opportunities with a number of established offices and factories in operation throughout the town.  It would be wrong to not mention the famous Tayto Park which is situated just outside of the Town. While the park is built to pay homage to the beloved crisp, it is also highly popular for its attractions.

With everything located in the one spot, it would be hard to find a reason to leave Ashbourne, but if you do, Dublin City Centre can be quickly accessed. The M2 Motorway allows you to access the City Centre within half an hour while Bus Eireann also provide a regular service into Dublin which typically takes forty minutes.

Rush, Co. Dublin

Located on the coast of North Dublin, Rush is a quiet seaside town built within an idyllic setting. Compared to other coastal towns surrounding Dublin, property prices in Rush are far more competitive. Rush and its neighbouring town Lusk have been a hot spot for the new housing developments within recent years. Take advantage of the stunning coastal views with a relaxing walk down the sandy beach, or even take a dip if you’re brave enough! Golf lovers can spend their weekends improving their swing on the established Rush Golf Club. While the area is a peaceful getaway from the hustle and bustle of Dublin City Centre, the city can still be quickly accessed along the M1 & M50 motorways. Dublin Bus, the Rush and Lusk Train line also offer regular services.

Naas, Co. Kildare

Naas has grown over a long period and has truly become an established town of its own. The accomplished schools and successful sports clubs have created a strong and active community within the Town.  With an abundance of amenities, Naas really has all that you could need. Naas is home to several popular shops, restaurants, and bars. It also has a leisure centre, cinema, theater and its own General Hospital. You can spend your free time wandering the aisles of Johnstown Garden Centre or unwinding in the Osprey Spa. There are a number of scenic walks in Naas including the path along the peaceful Naas branch of the Grand Canal and the picturesque Blessington Lakes are also a popular spot during the Summer months. Regular services from Bus Eireann, Sallins and Naas Train Station make an easy commute into Dublin. The N7 motorway adjoins onto the M50 motorway providing quick access to both North and Southbound routes.

Doran Estate’s Grand Opening of 308 Kimmage Road Lower

On the 27^th of April 2019, Doran Estates held the grand opening of our new office at 308 Kimmage Road Lower, Terenure, Dublin 6W. It was a great pleasure to share the day with our past and present clients in attendance and we would like to share a massive thank you to each of them for their continued support.

Situated in a prime location, on the periphery of the City Centre, our new office is a bright and welcoming open plan space which allows our team to collectively work together in an efficient manner. This modern and larger office offers plenty of room for our existing team with room to grow for new members to support our expanding customer base.

Ireland’s favourite country singer, Nathan Carter and Dublin GAA star, Alan Brogan assisted our director, Bridget-Anne Doran in the cutting of the ribbon ceremony. The two well known Irish celebrities brought great joy and laughter to the day.

The memory of the late Frank Doran was also celebrated on this day. Frank was the master mind behind the new office. He envisioned a shop front which would welcome clients and potential customers to engage with the team at Doran Estates. He selected the location after months of carefully examining the area. Frank oversaw the building of the office from the ground up before his passing in April 2018. The Doran family were delighted to open the office in his honour, knowing that his ethos will forever remain within Doran Estates.

The opening ceremony was followed by a reception held in Newlands Golf Club, Dublin 22. We would like to share a big thank you to the staff of Newlands Golf Club who made the evening special for everyone. It was a great opportunity to celebrate and catch up with our clients.

Now that our new office is open, we are so excited to see what new adventures will be in store. We would like to share an open invitation to old and new clients to stop by for a cup of tea and a catch up.

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