Salford has now taken the lead as the fastest-growing property market in the UK, with prices climbing more than 106% over the last decade. Manchester is close behind at 96% growth. These aren’t just strong figures—they’re unmatched across the country. But sustaining this upward momentum will require thoughtful, well-designed policy, not good fortune.
“I’ve watched this market evolve for many years, and I’m confident that this growth is only the beginning—if the Government gets the 2025 Autumn Budget right,” says Mish Liyanage, CEO of The Mistoria Group. “Salford and Manchester have outpaced every other UK region, but that lead will erode if policymakers fail to support the forces driving their success.”
Below are the key measures Mish believes the Budget must deliver to keep Greater Manchester moving forward:
1. Stamp Duty Reform for Buy-to-Let Investors and First-Time Buyers
“Stamp Duty surcharges have placed disproportionate pressure on landlords for far too long. Elevated rates on second homes and buy-to-let purchases have discouraged investment and forced capable operators out of the sector. Reform—particularly in regeneration areas—would release much-needed capital, improving rental supply at a time when demand is rising sharply.
“For first-time buyers, raising the relief threshold is essential. It would protect affordability in the lower price brackets and keep the door to homeownership open.”
2. Targeted Regeneration Funding That Goes Beyond Headlines
“The Levelling Up programme has generated big promises but uneven delivery. What Greater Manchester needs now is focused regeneration in areas that haven’t benefited from the Salford–Manchester growth wave—places like Oldham, Rochdale, Bolton, and Bury.
“That means concrete investment: better transport, revitalised town centres, improved infrastructure, and upgraded community facilities. Without this, growth will remain concentrated in just a few postcodes, leaving the wider region behind.”
3. Practical Support for Landlords and Developers Facing New Regulation
“The Renters’ Rights Bill introduces tougher rules, and many landlords are already planning to leave the sector. That’s entirely at odds with the growing demand for rental homes.
“Incentives for energy-efficient upgrades and support for bringing empty homes back into use would help offset rising regulatory costs. Developers, meanwhile, need streamlined planning processes, brownfield tax incentives, and grants that encourage sustainable building. These steps would increase housing delivery without inflating prices for buyers.”
4. Investment in the Construction Workforce
“Greater Manchester simply won’t meet its housing targets without more skilled workers. Builders, electricians, plumbers, joiners, site managers—the shortages are immediate and significant. Investment in apprenticeships, vocational training, and local skills programmes would directly speed up construction timelines and support affordability. Projects are delayed because labour is scarce. Training is the most effective long-term solution.”
What the 2025 Budget Must Deliver
Salford’s extraordinary 106% growth is the result of strong infrastructure investment, a flourishing tech and media sector, and rising demand for quality homes. Those fundamentals already exist. Now government policy must reinforce them—not jeopardise them.
The four priorities above are straightforward, practical, and growth-focused. They simply require the Chancellor to prioritise economic progress over political posturing. If these measures are implemented, Greater Manchester is well placed to maintain its status as the UK’s fastest-growing regional market.
