DNG Brian MacMahon is seeking €520,000 for this five-bed house at 31 Oranisland, Oranmore, overlooking Galway Bay. EMMA CULLINANfinds properties at a similar price in Croatia, France, Italy and Portugal.

Croatia: Dubrovnik

This is the view from a two-bedroom apartment overlooking a cathedral square in Dubrovnik old town. Never mind that the apartment is in a 16th century former palace itself. The 68sq m (731sq ft) home has been restored to mix mod-cons with period features such as stone walls and frescoes.

Price: €490,000

Agent: dreamcroatia.com 00 385 20437222

France: Loire

This 295sq m (3,175sq ft) house is five minutes from the historical walled town of Richelieu, between Poitiers and Tours. Features include exposed beams, oak stairs and stone fireplaces, but it has been renovated for a comfortable life. There are six bedrooms, three receptions and three bathrooms. In the garden is a pool and outbuildings.

Price: €549,000

Agent: winkworth.fr, 00 44 208 5765582

Italy: Lake Como

This is the view from a proposed three-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment at Residenza del Lago Azure, on Lake Como. It will be in a scheme of 28 villas and apartments and is due to be finished at the end of 2011. They will be built with local stone and have picture windows. Facilities include sauna, gym, pool and concierge.

Price: €494,000

Agent: cluttonsresorts.com, 0044 207584 3050

Portugal: Algarve

This four-bedroom villa is at the end of a cul-de-sac. It is a few minutes drive from Carvoeiro and a walk from a golf course and beach. All of the bedrooms have en suites. A lounge, diningroom and kitchen open onto a terrace with ocean views. There are also sea views from the pool which has an eating area with built-in barbecue.

Price: €495,000

Agent: winkworth.pt, 00 351 282356952