W Residences, Manchester

Once you have completed the purchase of your investment property, it's worth considering using a management company to take care of it. Whilst it may not suit everyone, there is a wide range of benefits to it.

Being in charge of the property yourself can be a very time-consuming job, especially if you have more than one. Below, we have collated some of the reasons you should consider using a property management company.

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Understanding the market

Property management companies have a finger on the pulse when it comes to local rental markets; therefore will be much more informed when it comes to pricing.

Where it is, what it offers, and other determining factors can have a significant impact on the rental price. If you decide to price the property yourself, putting it too high can result in void periods and putting it too low can result in a loss of potential income.

By choosing a professional property management company, you reduce any of this risk as they will understand what rents can be realistically achieved. Regular rent reviews will be carried out so that your property is in line with the current market.

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Saving yourself valuable time

Having one or multiple properties to manage yourself can be a very time-consuming process. Using a property management service is the best way to save yourself time while still reaping the benefits through; 

‍Finding a tenant - One of the most stressful and time-consuming tasks is trying to find a tenant. Between marketing, conducting viewings and arranging all the paperwork, it's a lot of work for one person to do. This will all be done on your behalf and may even have an existing pool of tenants ready to move in.

‍Taking care of admin - Between contracts, legal papers, and right-to-rent checks, there is a lot of paperwork and administration to take care of. Getting these tasks done quickly and professionally will save you time and help you avoid disputes.

‍Inspections and viewings - Coordinating viewings and regular inspections can be a logistical nightmare if you don't live locally and have other life commitments. Trying to arrange a date and time with conflicting schedules can be a huge challenge. 

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Rules and regulations

Letting out your property comes with a wide range of legal responsibilities and compliances that you can't afford to get wrong. These can become confusing and overwhelming if you don't stay on top of them regularly.

A professional management agent will always be on top of the latest regulatory changes, so there is no risk of incurring unnecessary fines for getting things wrong. 

Furthermore, it's a smart financial move that protects your assets. Only a small investment needs to be made into a professional legal service to save yourself from any damage that could be worth much more than that.

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How to choose a property management professional

A good agent will have a physical presence in the same location as your property and be able to demonstrate their knowledge of the market.

They will also be able to talk you through their operational processes and show how they guarantee all paperwork and legal compliance is taken care of. Finally, they will be communicative at all times and go the extra mile to make sure your investment is protected and your life as a landlord is as easy as possible.

We recommend Northbank Residential, who have a team of property management experts available to advise and provide more information at your convenience. Contact them to learn more and start maximising your returns!

Buy-to-let property investment in the UK is a mature, profitable market with a proven track record. However, recent events have caused some people to wonder whether there is a future for investors in the UK.

Thankfully, there is a clear answer to that question: yes. Despite political and economic instability, market concerns and new domestic legislation, buy-to-let has favourable long-term prospects and is the number one way to achieve your financial goals. We’ve gathered all the information UK and international investors need to know about UK buy-to-let in 2026, including:

• The reality of supply and demand in the UK property sector
• Impact of legislative changes
• Property market uncertainty and forecasts

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The reality of supply and demand in the UK property sector

The most important factor investors need to know about UK property is the significant lack of housing supply. No matter what else happens in the market and around the world, this is the foundation of buy-to-let investment. If anything, the gap between supply and demand is getting wider each year.

We have just 446 homes per 1,000 people in the UK, the second lowest rate in Europe. This compares poorly to 560 in France, 516 in Germany and a European average of 542.

Overall, we will need to build 565,000 homes per year by 2040 to close that gap. If we carry on at the current rate, we will not reach today’s European average until 2115. With construction costs rising at the fastest rate for 30 years and construction rates falling month-on-month, it is unlikely the supply gap will close for a long, long time.

That creates simple mathematics for investors. There is more competition for fewer homes every year – a recipe for reliable, long-term rent and property value growth. 

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Impact of legislative changes

The underlying facts of the market continue to favour investors, but that’s not the only consideration. Global political and economic factors are one thing, but we are also in the middle of legislative changes, which could be a concern for landlords.

The Renters Rights Act has received a lot of media attention, with many press outlets framing it as an attack on landlords. The logic goes that if tenants have improved rights, landlords will therefore be disadvantaged. While it is true that some landlords will likely have to make changes, for the majority, it will not deliver a noticeable effect. 

In reality, there are also many benefits for landlords delivered by the Renters Rights Act, including:

• Rent certainty – not rent controls
• Expanded Section 8 repossession criteria
• New landlord database to combat rogue landlords
• Longer tenancies, lower void periods

It will provide certainty in a number of areas, which is good news for buy-to-let landlords who invest in property for the long-term benefits it provides. Learn more about the Renters Rights Act here. 

Other proposed legislative changes, such as tightening EPC requirements and raising the bar for Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards, are also not as challenging for landlords as they might seem. Some measures are not yet confirmed, and there are caps on the potential costs you can incur. In all cases, the growth of the market – both property values and rents – is likely to be far higher than any increased costs. 

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Property market uncertainty and future forecasts

Finally, the uncertainty in the property market that you see in the news is not the full picture. There are always short-term fluctuations, but the long-term picture is clear. The market has shown its resilience so far in 2026, and the next four years are likely to see continued growth based on the fundamental facts of the market discussed previously.

The Knight Frank Q1 2026 Residential Market Update said: “Despite the growing risk of […] political uncertainty, we think UK house price growth should climb to 3% this year.” 

Looking further ahead, Savills forecasts average property value growth of 22.2% by the end of 2030, with regions like the North West again outperforming the national average in that timescale. Locations such as the Liverpool waterfront and Manchester city centre continue to prove themselves as the UK’s best buy-to-let property markets in 2026 and beyond. 

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UK buy-to-let is profitable, reliable and a great option in 2026

There are always going to be parties which profit from telling landlords that everything is negative and the market is turning against them. However, the reality simply does not show this to be the case.

The numbers don’t lie, and buy-to-let is still a profitable, positive investment option for investors from around the world. Even better, the long-term projections show that the potential returns on offer are going to keep increasing, no matter your strategy. 

Want to learn more about why you should invest in UK buy-to-let property? Contact our team today to find out everything you need to know and discover our latest investment opportunities.

Waterfront homes have always been popular in the UK. Living with views over the water is a uniquely appealing and prestigious prospect which offers a range of health and well-being benefits.

However, there is a limited supply of such property. There is only so much waterfront space which is suitable for housing in the UK, and much of what exists cannot be classed as premium housing. 

That creates a niche investors can benefit from. Modern, affordable waterfront properties in popular property markets like Liverpool are something which renters will pay a premium for.

Why is waterfront property so attractive to renters?

Waterfront property has benefits all of its own, including unique beauty and a tranquil living environment. Additionally, new waterfront property in Liverpool and other cities is often part of significant regeneration areas which provide outstanding lifestyle benefits for residents, including:

• Better transport links
• New shops, bars and restaurants
• More green spaces and cultural sites
• Improved health and well-being amenities
• Higher quality specifications and fit-outs

For investors looking to buy UK property, that means choosing a new waterfront scheme can often help you secure long-term, high-paying renters – especially in the best UK property investment hotspots like Liverpool.

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What makes Liverpool waterfront property so good for investors? 

Waterfront property is a great option for investors – but what makes investment property for sale in Liverpool such a good choice?

There is a real lack of available homes in the city. Construction levels are low, and demand is very high. That creates natural upwards pressure on both house prices and rents. The latest data from the Office for National Statistics shows that house prices in the city are up 3.6% in the last 12 months, and rents are up 6.4% over the same time period. Both of those rises are higher than the national average.

There is also a lot more to come in Liverpool, including:

• A new Mayoral Development Corporation to coordinate national and international investment into the city.
• Liverpool Waters, Wirral Waters and Central Docks are some of the UK’s biggest regeneration projects.
• £5bn city centre and transport infrastructure renewal is underway to make the city one of the best places to live in the UK.
• £10bn City Region Growth Plan to develop and improve the entire surrounding region.
• World-class universities which provide huge economic benefits and bring in people from all over the world.

That makes Liverpool a city worth investing in – now and for the long term. Combine all that with the natural benefits of waterfront property, and you have a winning investment formula.

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Where to invest in Liverpool?

Both sides of the River Mersey – Liverpool’s waterfront – are benefiting from major investment masterplans. One major example is Wirral Waters, a £4.5bn, multi-decade transformation of the waterfront opposite Liverpool city centre.

That makes it one of the most ambitious projects in the UK, and new properties in the area are set for impressive capital appreciation in the years to come.

Developments such as The Quayline are right in the heart of this growth area and offer some of the most appealing waterfront homes in Liverpool, one of the country’s fastest-growing property markets.

The Quayline brings 90 stylish new homes to the waterfront, including one-bedroom and 6 three-bedroom apartments. ‍These energy-efficient homes feature open-plan layouts, modern finishes, and access to dockside walkways and green spaces - all part of the growing Wirral Waters Northbank neighbourhood.

Want to learn more about The Quayline and other available waterfront properties in Liverpool? Contact the team today!

As we move through the year its important that investors looking to purchase a property know what to look for. Whilst a property can look the part its crucial that it's a successful investment and doesn't burn a hole in your pocket.

In this article, we will cover three simple points to look at when purchasing a property to give you the best outcome.

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‍How efficient is it (EPC)?

A property being efficient isn't just about the environment; it's also about how it impacts your income. EPC ratings (Energy Performance Certificate) are in place to rate a property's energy efficiency.

New laws have recently been put into place by the government, where all private rented properties must reach at least an EPC rating of C by 2030. If not met, owners can be fined under new legislation (NRLA, 2026).

When searching for a property its important to look at the EPC rating as anything below a C will now become less desirable and harder to let out. Buying off-plan is an easy way to guarantee an “A” or “B” rating, which will attract better tenants and improve your rental income.

Energy-efficient homes with a rating of A or B are also eligible for “Green Mortgages”, which offer lower interest rates or cashback as a reward for lower utility bills and environmental impact (Natwest, 2026).

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Check the cash flow

The whole point of buying an investment property is to gain the maximum possible return available. The yield is the amount of rent you receive as a percentage of the property's value. 

Whilst property prices going up is a bonus, a healthy cash flow (money coming in and out) is what will keep your investment safe. 

‍When looking its important to figure out what's best available to your budget and to try and determine the best potential outcome.

A good yield in major investment hotspots such as Manchester and Liverpool is currently sitting around 6-8%, which is what you should target. When looking, don't just look at the price; think about what will be left after bills and management fees.

If the calculations don't leave you with a monthly profit, then move on and find something more suitable; there is no benefit in stretching yourself and breaking even or losing money.

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Where is the property located?

The location of your property can have a drastic impact on your returns, and strategically picking the right place based on available information is something all potential investors should examine.

Things to consider when looking at a location is to go where money is already being spent. If the government is investing in a certain area, it usually results in a positive impact on surrounding areas, whether that's rents going up or house prices climbing.

Another big determiner is looking at its closeness to transport links, as properties near train stations, tram stops, etc., usually come with a premium.

For example, young professionals needing to commute will value access to transport very highly compared to other factors when looking for somewhere to live, making your property more desirable and reducing void periods.

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Final thoughts

Although it may seem simple, it's important to consider these factors when purchasing an investment property, wether your beginning your journey or you are a seasoned professional. 

Picking the right investment choice for you is crucial to having a successful portfolio and gaining the best returns available.

‍If you would like to purchase some of the best properties available on the market today, contact us, where one of our dedicated investment advisors will guide you through the process.

A recent report has found that Manchester is on track to become Europe's fourth-tallest city by 2030. This is dependent on a number of projects in the pipeline that would have to go ahead for the threshold to be met.

Currently sitting in seventh place, it highlights Manchester's exponential growth over the last decade. The city's upward growth is a direct result of the city's successful economic foundations below.

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Where does Manchester currently stand?

The report was carried out by Barbour API, one of the UK’s leading providers of construction market intelligence, data and project leads.

Manchester now sits in seventh place; the scale is determined by the number of buildings in a city that are over 50m, 100m and 150m. If the current approved schemes are successfully carried out, it would result in 200 towers over 50m and 10 over 150m.

This would take Manchester into fourth place, overtaking Paris and Frankfurt and only one place behind the capital, London. 

To put the recent growth into perspective, the tallest tower was for a long time Beetham Tower, which was completed in 2006, standing at 168m. It took over 10 years for that to be overtaken in 2018 with Deansgate South Tower (201m).

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Why is the city growing so much?

Manchester's development over the last decade has been formidable; the skyline has transformed itself, and the city's footprint has begun to expand significantly.

The skyline's drastic change is largely due to the relatively low cost of land in Manchester, which enables developers to build on sites cost-effectively, as suggested by Barbour ABI’s Ed Griffiths. 

However, this can't be executed without there being a demand, but for Manchester, there definitely is. There has been a huge influx of young professionals looking to rent in the city, which gives developers confidence in building high-rise residential towers.‍

"The centre of Manchester is relatively small in comparison to London (or indeed Birmingham, which Manchester has more high-rises planned than before 2030), so there is a need to build upwards rather than outwards, attracting high-rise residential developers to the region", says Ed Griffiths.

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What's next to come?

Manchester's tallest project was approved in April of last year, and the scheme will become the tallest tower in the UK outside of London once completed.

The Nobu Tower will stand at 246m high, comprising 76 storeys, including 452 flats and a 160-bed hotel. This will mark a huge chapter in the city's global footprint, as it houses a luxury branded residence.

Other noticeable projects include:

Viadux Phase 2, a £600m project rising over 76 storeys that will contain 915 apartments.

The Lighthouse 642 apartments in a 71-storey tower on Great Jackson Street (scheduled for completion in May 2029) will add to the ever-growing New Jackson District.

Manchester Innovation District Sister Plot C (£162m) – a joint partnership between the University of Manchester and Bruntwood SciTech to create a flagship flexible working space with civic square.

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The impact it's had on Manchester 

The rise of the city, paired with a sustained demand, has resulted in a very healthy rental market, with prices climbing steadily. The average monthly rent in Manchester reached £1,317, a 5.1% increase year-on-year (ONS, 2026).

Manchester has created the perfect investment hub with high rental yields, huge regeneration and massive demand from a young professional population.

If you would like to benefit from this and want to begin or expand your portfolio, contact us today, where one of our dedicated investment advisors will be happy to help.

Millions of people will go to the polls this week to vote in the UK’s local elections. These will determine the makeup of local councils across large parts of the country and are likely to affect day-to-day life in a range of ways.

However, how much they will affect the property market is a different question. While local elections are important, investors should not be overly concerned about the results from the perspective of property investments.

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How important is property in the local elections? 

Property is an important factor in every UK election, big or small. How people live is always a key issue, and local elections are no different. If people are struggling to afford rent, or their local housing stock is of a poor standard, they may vote for a different party or candidate to see if it changes anything.

Likewise, local councils have some powers when it comes to planning permission. If people do not want more housebuilding in their area, they may vote for a candidate or party which pledges to limit new construction.

In summary, property is important for voters and people running as local election candidates. However, that does not necessarily mean that the market itself will be affected by the result.

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Can local councillors and local elections affect the wider property market?

There is a mismatch between the power on offer at local elections and the sheer scale of the property market. While local councillors have some level of influence in their areas, the property market is massively bigger than any individual or council.

Likewise, while local councillors have some influence over planning permission, the central government has much more power. The government’s policies set priorities, and the relevant housing ministers can even call in rejected schemes and overrule local politicians.

While it is in the interest of people standing in local elections to say they can make important changes to housing policies – and therefore positively influence the market for their potential constituents – the reality is they can’t in almost all cases.

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Should investors expect property market changes following the UK’s local elections?

With all that in mind, it is unlikely the local elections will cause any significant changes to the overall UK property market. The only scenario where there might be an unexpected change is if a shocking, unexpected result is delivered.

However, in reality, the market is unlikely to be moved. It is a well-known political fact that sitting governments often lose a lot of seats when local elections are held partway through a parliamentary term. In this case, the government is expected to lose a lot of seats – but the crucial fact is this is anticipated and priced into the market already.

Predictability is an important thing when it comes to the property market. While the local elections may see some differences in people’s daily lives, the property market is not subject to the same small-scale changes. 

This is a good thing. You can invest in UK buy-to-let, knowing it offers long-term stability and will not be affected by every small political change. This is a stable, reliable market that has endured through major global economic and political events. 

The UK local elections are highly unlikely to deliver any shock on a scale that could affect the mortgage markets or property values, as they are simply not that important on the national or global scale.

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Invest in UK buy-to-let in 2026

Want to learn more about what makes 2026 the ideal time to invest in UK buy-to-let property? Take a break from the local election coverage and contact our team today to discover our latest high-yield property investment opportunities.