As the UK property market experiences a transitional phase, one voice continues to offer clear direction and optimism – Mish Liyanage, CEO of The Mistoria Group. With years of experience in the real estate investment space, Liyanage believes the North of England is set to outperform the rest of the country this spring, projecting house price increases of up to 2% in several key areas.

According to Liyanage, cities such as Manchester, Liverpool, Bolton, and surrounding regions including Cheshire and parts of North Wales are currently benefitting from strong buyer demand and attractive yields, particularly in the buy-to-let sector. “While the national picture may appear mixed, the fundamentals in the North remain strong,” says Liyanage. “Investors are seeing continued value, and families are drawn to affordability and quality of life.”

His optimism for the Northern market comes as the broader UK housing sector braces for modest corrections, especially in higher-priced areas of the South. Liyanage points out that regions like London and parts of the South East are likely to face price softening due to affordability constraints and tightening lending rules. However, he’s quick to clarify that this isn’t a crash—rather, it’s a natural recalibration in response to recent economic shifts.

Mish Liyanage’s outlook is supported by recent figures from Rightmove, which show average asking prices have hit a record high of £377,182 in April 2025—a 1.4% increase from the previous month. Interestingly, this growth is being driven largely by demand in the Midlands and North, where sellers are gaining confidence and buyers are responding to more stable mortgage rates and increased availability of listings.

Moreover, the North West has led the country in terms of annual house price inflation, with the Office for National Statistics reporting an 8% rise in the year leading up to February 2025. Liyanage sees this as further validation that Northern cities are not just resilient—they’re leading the way.

He also underscores the strategic advantage for investors who are willing to look beyond traditional markets. “There’s a real shift happening,” says Liyanage. “The Northern regions are no longer the hidden gems of property investment—they’re becoming the main stage.” He cites the strength of the student market in cities like Liverpool and Manchester, as well as the growing demand from young professionals looking to rent or buy in well-connected, vibrant communities.

Liyanage encourages both seasoned investors and first-time buyers to consider the North seriously, noting that regeneration projects, infrastructure upgrades, and a strong rental culture make it an attractive long-term proposition.

As property trends continue to evolve in 2025, Mish Liyanage remains a firm advocate for the North, believing that those who act decisively now will reap the rewards in years to come.