OVER DEZE AFLEVERING
In this episode, we sit down with Ray Cooke, founder of Ray Cooke Auctioneers, to explore his journey through the Irish property market—from launching his own firm in 2005 to navigating the financial crash and building a diversified property business.
Ray shares how he got started in the industry, the mindset it took to step out and build his own brand, and how he scaled the business into one of Dublin’s most recognisable estate agencies.
🧠 From Startup to Scale
We discuss the early days of setting up Ray Cooke Auctioneers in 2005, the challenges of building credibility, and how strong branding and local expertise played a key role in the company’s growth across Dublin.
📉 Surviving the 2008 Crash
A major focus of the conversation is how Ray navigated the 2008 financial crisis—one of the most difficult periods in Irish property history.
He talks candidly about:
- The realities of operating during a market collapse
- The importance of resilience and adaptability
- How diversification became essential to survival
🔄 Diversification & Growth
Ray explains how the business expanded beyond traditional estate agency, including:
- Financial services
- Property management
- Broader real estate offerings
This shift allowed the company to stabilise and grow despite market volatility.
📊 The Dublin Market Today
We also dive into how the Dublin property market has performed in recent years, with insights on:
- Persistent supply shortages
- Strong buyer and rental demand
- The evolving role of investors and landlords
🔮 What’s Next for Irish Property?
Ray shares his outlook on where the market is heading, particularly in light of increasing regulation for landlords. Despite these challenges, he outlines why he still sees strong long-term potential.
🇮🇪 Why Ireland Still Attracts Investment
A key takeaway from the episode is Ray’s belief that Ireland—and Dublin in particular—remains a highly attractive market due to:
- Economic stability
- Ongoing housing demand
- Ireland’s position as a global business hub
🔗 Connect with Ray Cooke
- 🌐 https://raycooke.ie
- 📸 Instagram: @ray.cooke1
- 💼 LinkedIn: Ray Cooke
Pauric Hilferty
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paurichilferty/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paurichil/
Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/pauric.hilferty/
Lisa O'Reilly
Website: https://lorpropertysolutions.ie/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-oreilly/
Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/Lisaoreilly20
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