Is buying a property in Northern Quarter a good investment?

Last updated on December 29, 2023

Yes, the analysis of Manchester's property market is included in our pack

If you've enjoyed the vibrant music scene and creative energy of the Northern Quarter, you might have considered living in this Manchester district.

Is it a good idea though? What's the current state of the real estate market in that area? Are property values appreciating or depreciating? Are investors seeing returns on their real estate investments? How's the demand for rentals?

We'll answer all these questions for you! When building and updating our property pack for the UK, our team has been researching and surveying this area. In fact, there is significant customer interest in investing there. Therefore, we believe it would be beneficial to include some information about it in our property pack.

Why do property buyers like investing in Northern Quarter?

The Northern Quarter in Manchester holds a special allure for property buyers, a charm that's been steadily growing over the years.

It's not just another real estate market; it's a vibrant, eclectic hub that stands out from other areas in Manchester. Let's dive into what makes it so appealing.

Firstly, the Northern Quarter is a tapestry of culture and creativity. This isn't your typical urban neighborhood. It's dotted with independent shops, vintage stores, and unique art galleries, offering a refreshing contrast to the more commercialized areas of Manchester. The area breathes a certain artistic flair, making it a magnet for those who appreciate a more bohemian lifestyle.

In comparison to other parts of Manchester, the Northern Quarter has a distinct character. Think of it as the cool, quirky cousin in the family of Manchester neighborhoods.

While areas like Spinningfields or Deansgate boast high-end, sleek modernity, the Northern Quarter revels in its vintage charm and independent spirit. This difference isn't just aesthetic; it's about the atmosphere. The Northern Quarter feels more intimate, more grounded in community and local culture.

The rise in its popularity can be traced back to the late 1990s and early 2000s. This was when regeneration efforts began transforming old industrial buildings into trendy lofts and office spaces.

What was once an overlooked part of the city started gaining attention as a hotspot for artists and entrepreneurs. This resurgence injected new life into the area, and it's been on an upward trajectory ever since.

Given its unique offerings, it seems likely. The Northern Quarter isn't just about trendy cafes or stylish apartments. It's about a lifestyle that appeals to a growing segment of the population.

Especially among young professionals, creative types, and those who yearn for a blend of urban living with a cultural twist, this area ticks many boxes.

However, it's important to acknowledge some potential drawbacks. The Northern Quarter, with its bustling streets and lively nightlife, might not be everyone's cup of tea. If you're looking for peace and quiet, this might not be your ideal spot.

Also, as with any popular urban area, there can be concerns about gentrification and the rising cost of living. These factors could potentially change the neighborhood's character over time.

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Why is Northern Quarter a nice place to live?

Living in the Northern Quarter offers a unique experience blending an eclectic culture and lifestyle that's hard to find elsewhere.

The lifestyle and culture in the Northern Quarter are vibrant and distinctive. It's known for its artistic and bohemian vibe, filled with independent shops, art galleries, and a range of eateries and bars that cater to diverse tastes.

This neighborhood pulsates with creativity, making it a haven for artists, musicians, and creative professionals. It's a place where street art adorns the walls, and every corner seems to tell a story.

The expat community here is thriving. Thanks to its inclusive and welcoming nature, expats from various countries find it easy to blend in. The area's diversity is one of its strengths, offering a cosmopolitan feel that appeals to those from abroad.

Socializing is easy with numerous cafes and social spaces where expats and locals mingle, creating a dynamic and international environment.

When it comes to living costs, the Northern Quarter can be a bit of a mixed bag. Generally, it's considered more affordable than some upscale areas of Manchester like Spinningfields, but it's not the cheapest area in the city.

The cost of living here reflects the quality of life and amenities the area offers. Renting or buying property might be on the higher side compared to less central areas.

Safety in the Northern Quarter, like many urban areas, requires a degree of awareness. While it's generally safe, the bustling nightlife means it's always wise to be cautious, especially late at night. The area is well-policed, and community initiatives often focus on maintaining a safe environment.

Amenities and facilities in the Northern Quarter are plentiful. For shopping, you'll find the Arndale Centre nearby, one of the largest city-center shopping centers in Europe.

In terms of healthcare, there are several medical facilities, including the Manchester Royal Infirmary and the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital, providing excellent healthcare services. Schools in and around the area cater to different educational needs, with New Islington Free School being a notable option for younger children.

The quality of infrastructure in the Northern Quarter is quite good. Roads are well-maintained, and utilities like water and electricity are reliable. Internet connectivity is generally excellent, catering to the tech-savvy residents and businesses in the area.

Accessibility is another strong point. The Northern Quarter is well-connected to other parts of Manchester. It's just a short walk from Manchester Piccadilly, the city's main train station, making travel to other cities and regions convenient. For air travel, Manchester Airport is easily accessible by train or taxi.

Public transportation options are comprehensive. Along with buses that run throughout the city, the Metrolink tram system provides a quick and efficient way to get around.

The tram stops like Market Street and Shudehill are centrally located in the Northern Quarter, making it easy to commute to work or explore other parts of Manchester.

How much does it cost to buy real estate in Northern Quarter?

If you need a detailed and updated analysis of the prices, rents and yields, you can get our full guide about real estate investment in the UK.

The cost of buying property in the Northern Quarter varies, depending on the type of property and its location.

In the Northern Quarter, residential properties primarily consist of apartments, including studio flats, one to two-bedroom apartments, and some larger units. Houses are less common in this densely urban area. The trend leans heavily towards modern, often compact living spaces, catering to young professionals, couples, and small families.

Due to the urban, artistic vibe of the area, there's a high demand for apartments, especially those in converted industrial buildings which offer a unique blend of historic character and modern living.

In terms of the property market, the Northern Quarter is a mix of both new developments and resale properties. Recently, there's been a surge in new apartment complexes, reflecting the growing popularity of the area.

These new developments often offer amenities like gyms, communal spaces, and sometimes even concierge services, which add to their appeal.

Price-wise, the Northern Quarter is considered one of the more expensive areas in Manchester due to its popularity and central location. Prices per square meter can vary widely, but you might expect to pay anywhere from around £3,000 to £5,000 per square meter, depending on the property's size, condition, and exact location.

Over recent years, property values in the Northern Quarter have generally seen an upward trend. The area's popularity, its cultural scene, and ongoing development projects have made it an attractive spot for investors and homebuyers alike. This upward trend is expected to continue, given the area's desirability and the ongoing development projects.

Looking ahead, there are several factors that suggest the real estate market in the Northern Quarter could continue to thrive.

For instance, Manchester's overall growth as a hub for business and culture positively impacts areas like the Northern Quarter.

Also, any upcoming developments or city planning changes, such as improvements in public transport or new cultural attractions, could further boost property values.

Specific factors indicating a potential increase in property values include the continued demand for urban living, the area's unique character, and its appeal to a younger demographic.

Additionally, if Manchester continues to grow as a business and tech hub, this could lead to increased demand for housing in centrally-located areas like the Northern Quarter.

Where is the best area to buy a property in Northern Quarter?

When considering where to buy property in the Northern Quarter, it's important to understand that different parts of this area offer varied atmospheres, property types, and prices.

The heart of the Northern Quarter, around Oldham Street and Thomas Street, is known for its bustling vibe. Here, you'll find an eclectic mix of shops, bars, and restaurants right at your doorstep.

Properties in this part of the Northern Quarter are predominantly apartments, many of which are situated in converted warehouses and industrial buildings.

These properties often feature unique architectural elements like exposed brickwork and large windows. Due to the central location and the unique character of these apartments, prices tend to be higher.

Moving slightly away from the center, areas around Ancoats and the edges of the Northern Quarter offer a slightly different atmosphere. These parts are generally quieter and more residential while still maintaining close proximity to the amenities of the Northern Quarter.

Ancoats, in particular, has seen significant development in recent years and is often regarded as an up-and-coming area. You might find more modern apartment complexes, some with additional facilities like gyms and communal gardens.

Prices in these areas can be slightly more affordable than in the very heart of the Northern Quarter, but they are still considered premium due to the popularity of the location.

If you're looking for a property, focusing on areas like Ancoats or the quieter parts near the Northern Quarter's edges can be a good idea. These areas offer a balance between the vibrant city life and a more relaxed residential atmosphere.

On the contrary, areas right in the thick of the Northern Quarter's main nightlife and commercial zones might not be advisable for everyone.

While living in the midst of the action can be exciting, it might also come with challenges like noise, especially on weekends, and a lack of private outdoor space.

Here is a summary table to help you visualize better. If you need more detailed data and information, please check our property pack for the UK.

Area	Atmosphere	Property Types	Price Range	Suitability
Central (Oldham Street, Thomas Street)	Bustling, vibrant	Apartments in converted warehouses	Higher	Suitable for those who enjoy urban activity
Ancoats	Quieter, residential	Modern apartment complexes	More affordable than central	Suitable for a balanced urban life
Edges of Northern Quarter	Quieter, more residential	Variety of apartments	Moderate	Suitable for quieter living close to amenities
Main Nightlife Zones	Lively, noisy	Apartments close to bars/restaurants	Varies	Suitable for those prioritizing nightlife

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Is there a strong rental demand in Northern Quarter?

The Northern Quarter is indeed experiencing a strong rental demand reflecting the area's popularity and the lifestyle it offers.

The nature of this demand, however, varies between short-term and long-term rentals, each attracting different tenant profiles.

For short-term rentals, the Northern Quarter is a hotspot. Its vibrant nightlife, cultural scene, and central location make it an attractive destination for tourists and business travelers.

Properties here, especially those close to popular streets like Oldham Street and Thomas Street, are in high demand for short-term lets. These rentals often cater to visitors who want to experience the lively urban atmosphere of Manchester.

Long-term rentals, on the other hand, are more geared towards young professionals, creatives, and students. These groups are drawn to the Northern Quarter for its artistic vibe, proximity to employment hubs, and the social lifestyle it offers.

Apartments, particularly one or two-bedroom units in modern developments or converted industrial buildings, are highly sought after by these tenants.

The profiles of potential tenants usually include young professionals working in Manchester's growing tech and business sectors, creative individuals involved in the arts and music scene, and students from nearby universities.

These groups typically look for properties that are not just places to live, but also spaces that complement their lifestyle. They value the convenience of city living, often preferring locations near good transport links, like those close to Manchester Piccadilly station.

In terms of amenities, features like high-speed internet, modern furnishings, and access to local leisure facilities can significantly reduce vacancy rates. These amenities appeal to the lifestyle expectations of the target demographic.

Additionally, properties with unique architectural features or those in buildings with communal spaces, such as rooftop terraces or gyms, are particularly attractive.

Regarding potential returns on investment, properties in the Northern Quarter can offer attractive yields, though exact numbers can vary.

Generally, you could expect a higher yield from rental properties here than in some other parts of Manchester, partly due to the area's desirability and ongoing demand.

Properties experiencing increasing demand and potentially better yields are modern, well-maintained apartments, especially those with unique features or in developments offering additional amenities.

These properties cater to the lifestyle and preferences of the Northern Quarter's primary rental market, making them particularly attractive for investment.

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Is it easy to buy a property as foreigner in Northern Quarter?

Before we answer the question, please know that we have an article dedicated to the experience of buying real estate as a foreigner in the UK.

Buying property in the Northern Quarter of Manchester as a foreigner is generally straightforward, but there are certain aspects to be mindful of.

Firstly, in the UK, there are no specific regulations or restrictions that apply exclusively to foreign buyers. This means that, as a foreigner, you have the same rights to purchase property as a local buyer.

However, there are some broader considerations, such as tax implications and potential additional scrutiny from mortgage lenders if you're seeking financing.

The purchasing process in the Northern Quarter, like elsewhere in the UK, involves several key steps. After selecting a property, you would typically make an offer through a real estate agent, and once accepted, you would proceed to a more formal legal process involving solicitors.

This process includes property searches, verification of property titles, and a detailed review of any other legal aspects related to the property. It’s crucial to have these legalities thoroughly checked to avoid any future complications.

One of the primary risks associated with property investment in the Northern Quarter, as with any real estate investment, involves market fluctuations. Property values can go up or down based on a variety of factors, including economic conditions and changes in the local area.

Another risk is related to the property's condition. Especially in areas like the Northern Quarter, where there are many older buildings and converted properties, it’s essential to have a comprehensive property survey to identify any potential issues.

Common pitfalls for buyers, particularly those unfamiliar with the UK market, include underestimating additional costs such as stamp duty, legal fees, and potential property maintenance costs.

Also, international buyers might not be as aware of local market trends or neighborhood specifics. In the Northern Quarter, for instance, the appeal and value of a property can vary significantly based on its exact location and its proximity to key amenities and transport links.

Working with a local real estate agent or lawyer is highly recommended. They can provide valuable insights into the local market, assist with negotiations, and ensure that all legal aspects of the purchase are correctly handled.

They can also help navigate the complexities of the UK property purchasing process, which might be different from your home country.

Common exit strategies for property investors in the Northern Quarter include selling the property for capital gain or renting it out for ongoing income. The area's popularity, especially among young professionals and creatives, makes rental properties a potentially lucrative option.

However, it’s important to stay informed about the local rental market and any changes in property laws that could affect landlord obligations or tax implications.