A prominent figure in the UK property sector has shared his view on what the Chancellor must deliver in this week’s Budget to keep Greater Manchester’s housing market moving forward.
Mish Liyanage, CEO of The Mistoria Group, says the region is sitting on significant untapped potential—provided the right support is put in place by Rachel Reeves.
“Salford has emerged as the strongest-performing area in the UK for house price growth, with values rising by more than 106% over the past ten years. Manchester isn’t far behind, with growth of 96%,” he said. “That’s genuine market-leading performance. But it doesn’t sustain itself without intentional policy decisions.”
“I’ve followed the evolution of this market very closely, and with the right approach in the 2025 Autumn Budget, this growth could accelerate even further,” he added. “Salford and Manchester have outperformed every other region in Britain—but that advantage is fragile if government policy stops backing what’s driving success.”
Mish believes the following measures are critical if Greater Manchester is to maintain its momentum:
1. Reforming Stamp Duty for Buy-to-Let Investors and First-Time Buyers
“For years, Stamp Duty surcharges have discouraged responsible landlords from investing. Higher rates on buy-to-let and second homes suppress investment and reduce rental supply at a time when demand is rising fast. Adjusting these thresholds—especially in regeneration areas—would release capital back into the market. At the same time, increasing relief for first-time buyers would help keep entry-level homes affordable.”
2. Meaningful Regeneration Investment Beyond Core Hotspots
“Levelling Up funding has generated headlines but delivered uneven outcomes. Areas such as Oldham, Rochdale, Bolton and Bury still need serious, targeted investment. That means improved transport links, revitalised town centres and stronger community infrastructure. Without this, growth remains concentrated in a handful of postcodes, leaving much of Greater Manchester 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 exit the market. That’s the opposite of what’s needed when rental supply is under pressure. Incentives for energy efficiency upgrades and bringing empty properties back into use would help balance the regulatory load. Developers also need support—brownfield tax incentives, streamlined planning processes and grants for sustainable construction would all help deliver homes without inflating prices.”
4. Investment in the Construction Workforce
“Housing targets simply won’t be met without skilled workers. Builders, electricians, plumbers and project managers are in short supply, and it’s already slowing down delivery. Funding apprenticeships and local training programmes would directly improve build times and help control housing costs. The skills gap is one of the biggest bottlenecks in the system.”
Mish concluded: “If the Budget addresses these four priorities, Greater Manchester can cement its status as the fastest-growing housing market in the UK—and keep delivering long-term value for residents and investors alike.”
