must agree with Brenbo.
research must be done before any investment, not to mind one of €440K!
have a look at DAFT to see how rentals are going in most parts of Ireland. have you visited the area at various times, such as early morning rush hour, evening rushhour, night time? What type of houses are nearby? are there gangs of young people hanging around? If so, they might intimidate female tenants. Have you got the local papers to read about the area and what other properties are for sale/rent?
Have you worked out your repayment figures to cater for voids/rate intreases/decoration?
Have you factored in stamp duty and legal expenses. If you do not live withing say an hour's drive, how will you manage the property?
Current trends in Cork are much the same as everywhere else.