Portarlington has really started to develope in the past five years due to all the construction going on.There are loads of new estates but virtually no industry in the town so it really is a commuter town.There is a new shopping centre being built this year to cater for demand.For investment purposes I'm not sure who you would be renting out to,and I would think there are plenty of properties competing for your income.I'd suggest you buy the Lenister express and have a look at the to rent pages.....where were you thinking of buying?