To view Number 2 Abington in Malahide, Co Dublin, you need to produce proof of your identity and access to funds, a fairly unusual request in this market.

The Mayo agents handling the sale, Fox and Gallagher, are asking €2.7 million for the palatial neo-Georgian house believed to be owned by Christina Gallagher, founder of the controversial House of Prayer based in Achill, Co Mayo.

The house, which has been in the market for some time, is lavish in style with five bedrooms, all en suite, three reception rooms and more than 7,000sq ft of living space.

Devoid of furniture, the vast reception rooms look like hotel function rooms with elaborate wallpaper, gold mirrors and pelmets and swags. There is also a triple garage incorporating a small apartment. The 1.4 acre site is in formal gardens with ornate fountains, sculptures and a gazebo. It remains to be seen if it will fetch the asking price in the brisk Dublin market or if it will need a little divine intervention.