Salford now leads the entire UK for house price growth, with values increasing by more than 106% over the past decade. Manchester is close behind, rising by 96%. These figures aren’t just impressive—they’re unrivalled anywhere else in the country. But keeping this momentum going will require deliberate, well-structured policy rather than chance.
“I’ve followed this market in detail for many years, and I genuinely believe 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 outperformed every other region in the UK, but that edge will fade if policy fails to support the drivers behind this success.”
Here are the key areas Mish believes the Budget must address to keep Greater Manchester on its upward path:
1. Stamp Duty Reform for Buy-to-Let Investors and First-Time Buyers
“Stamp Duty surcharges have burdened landlords for far too long. Higher rates on second homes and buy-to-let investments have discouraged experienced landlords and pushed high-quality operators out of the market. Reforming these charges—especially in regeneration zones—would release capital for reinvestment and help ease rental shortages at a time when demand is rising rapidly.
“For first-time buyers, increasing the relief threshold would help maintain affordability in the lower price brackets and give new buyers a realistic chance of entering the market.”
2. Genuine Regeneration Funding Beyond Big Promises
“The Levelling Up agenda has delivered bold statements but inconsistent outcomes. What Greater Manchester now needs is targeted investment in the areas still lagging behind the recent success of Salford and central Manchester—towns such as Oldham, Rochdale, Bolton, and Bury.
“That means real, visible improvements: better public transport, renewed high streets, modern infrastructure, and stronger community amenities. Without this, growth risks becoming concentrated in a small number of postcodes while surrounding areas fall further behind.”
3. Practical Support for Landlords and Developers Under New Regulations
“The Renters’ Rights Bill is tightening regulations, and many landlords are already contemplating leaving the market. That’s the last thing we need when rental supply is already stretched thin.
“Tax breaks for energy-efficiency improvements or incentives to restore empty or derelict homes would help balance the cost of compliance. Developers, on the other hand, need reduced planning bureaucracy, brownfield investment incentives, and grants that encourage sustainable building. These measures would increase housing stock without driving prices higher for buyers.”
4. Investment in the Construction Workforce
“Greater Manchester will not meet its housing targets without a larger skilled workforce. Builders, electricians, plumbers, joiners, project managers—the shortages are real and immediate. Funding apprenticeships, vocational courses, and local training programmes would directly speed up construction timelines and keep housing costs under control. Delivery is slow because skilled labour is scarce. Training investment is the solution.”
What the 2025 Budget Must Deliver
Salford’s remarkable 106% growth reflects strong infrastructure investment, a thriving tech and media sector, and rising demand for high-quality homes. The fundamentals are already in place. Now, government policy must either support these conditions—or risk undermining them.
The four priorities above are simple, practical, and growth-focused. They require the Chancellor to choose economic progress over political rhetoric. If these measures are adopted, Greater Manchester is well positioned to maintain its status as the fastest-growing region in the UK.
