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Real Estate in Manchester, UK | Expat Exchange
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Real Estate in Manchester, England

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on May 05, 2024

Summary: Expats and retirees talk about real estate in Manchester, UK? How do you find a home in Manchester? Should you buy or rent? What is the cost of housing?

William Russell
William Russell
William Russell
William Russell

How do I find a place to live in Manchester?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"To find a place to live in Manchester, you can start by researching different neighborhoods to determine which area best suits your needs and preferences. Consider factors such as proximity to work or school, public transportation, local amenities, and safety. Next, set a budget for your rent or mortgage, taking into account additional costs such as utilities, council tax, and any potential agency fees. This will help you narrow down your search and ensure you find a place within your financial means. Once you have a clear idea of your preferred location and budget, you can begin searching for properties online. Websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and OnTheMarket are popular platforms for finding rental and sale properties in the UK. You can filter your search by location, price range, property type, and number of bedrooms. In addition to online searches, you can also visit local estate agents in Manchester who can help you find suitable properties based on your requirements. Register with multiple agents to increase your chances of finding the perfect place. When you find a property that interests you, arrange a viewing to inspect the property in person. This will give you a better idea of the property's condition, size, and layout, as well as the surrounding neighborhood. If you are renting, be prepared to provide references from previous landlords and proof of income to show that you can afford the rent. If you are buying, you will need to secure a mortgage and have a solicitor in place to handle the legal aspects of the purchase. Finally, once you have found the perfect place to live in Manchester, make an offer or submit a rental application, and if accepted, sign the necessary contracts and arrange for your move," explained one expat living in Manchester, England.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Manchester?

"A typical expat home or apartment in Manchester, is likely to be a modern, furnished flat located in a convenient area close to public transport, shops, and restaurants. These homes often feature open-plan living spaces, fully-equipped kitchens, and comfortable bedrooms. Many expat apartments are situated in new developments or renovated buildings, offering amenities such as secure entry systems, communal gardens, and sometimes even on-site gyms or concierge services. The size of the apartment can vary, but most expats opt for one or two-bedroom flats, depending on their budget and family situation. Some expats may also choose to live in more traditional terraced houses or semi-detached homes in suburban neighborhoods, which offer more space and a quieter environment," said one expat in Manchester.

CORNERSTONE Relocation

Home finding, schooling, moving, settling-in and more for UK, London and Ireland. Cornerstone is a tech-driven, innovative relocation company. Making relocating to London, UK, Ireland and beyond a happy experience!

Learn MoreConnect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

CORNERSTONE Relocation

Home finding, schooling, moving, settling-in and more for UK, London and Ireland. Cornerstone is a tech-driven, innovative relocation company. Making relocating to London, UK, Ireland and beyond a happy experience!

Learn MoreConnect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

What is the average cost of housing in Manchester?

If you are thinking about moving to Manchester, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The average cost of housing in Manchester, can vary depending on the type of property and location. As of 2021, the average price for a property in Manchester is approximately £200,000. However, this figure can be higher or lower depending on factors such as the size of the property, its condition, and the specific area within Manchester," remarked one member in Manchester.

Should I buy or rent a home in Manchester?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Manchester, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"The decision to buy or rent a home in Manchester, depends on your personal circumstances, financial situation, and long-term plans. If you plan to stay in Manchester for a significant period and have a stable income, buying a home could be a good investment, as it allows you to build equity and potentially benefit from rising property values. Additionally, owning a home provides a sense of stability and the freedom to make changes to the property as you wish. On the other hand, if you are unsure about your long-term plans or prefer flexibility, renting might be a better option. Renting allows you to move more easily if your circumstances change, and it typically requires less upfront capital than buying a home. Furthermore, renting can be more cost-effective in the short term, as you won't be responsible for property taxes, maintenance, and other costs associated with homeownership. Ultimately, the choice between buying and renting a home in Manchester depends on your individual needs and preferences. It's essential to carefully consider your financial situation, job stability, and future plans before making a decision," explained one person living in Manchester, England.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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