Dublin's property owners have been fortunate the last five years as Dublin became a boom town beyond anyone's expectations. However those trying to get into this market or rent, have it tough. As properties get snapped up at incredible prices, and a small apartment can cost what a house would cost anywhere else in Ireland.
There is a website with some good properties on for example E395,000 for 125sqm or 1345sqft. or something smaller near Trinity College in the centre E290,000 for 415sqft.
www.homelocators.ie may prove useful for you, or you may find that moving to the outskirts prove easier.
There is a blog about the prices and living further out at www.janinedalton.com/blog/page2 you may find you have something in common and you could leave a comment on the blog with your questions