Hi
I agree with joejoe, I think patience will defo pay off in the long run in terms of price. But I think this is the same in most places now.
I dont live in Newcastle but know it well, I have friends and family there.
Newcastle is a nice place generally but it is a place which has seen alot of housing estates pop up all over it in the last 3 years and I think the village atmosphere and infrastructure will suffer badly because of this. I also think housing is spreading into Newcastle slowly from the Lucan/Adamstown side and this again will further impede the village. There are also 2 hotels and more apartments going up there ( I think..called after the gondola or something..I may be wrong- but check it for yourself)
In fairness this might all suit some people, but if you are looking to the future I don't think Newcastle will have the same nice small village atmosphere in 10 years time.
Heavy traffic is a problem in Newcastle and Naas road into Dublin, so be aware.
On the plus, it has some very nice decent people living there and the canal for some nice country walks. And I hear the Gaa club is very active for any kids. All good.
Alymer Heath houses have a nice design. The only reason I wouldn't move there is I hate the traffic!
The Gondola pub could do with a bit of a facelift though..