Carlisle has been named one of the fastest-moving property markets in England and Wales, with new data showing homes are selling in as little as 23 days on average.
The findings come from Zoopla’s 2025 report, which highlights continued momentum across several northern locations as buyer and investor demand remains strong.
Simon Cairnes, property expert at BuyAssociation, said the data reinforces a longer-term shift in investor focus away from the South and towards more affordable northern cities.
“This new research reaffirms something we’ve been observing in the property investment market for some time.
“The North continues to dominate regionally, with more investors snapping up opportunities in areas like Manchester. Now, Carlisle joins that list,” he said.
Cairnes added that affordability and rental demand continue to underpin activity in the region.
“While London has traditionally been the focus for property buyers in recent years, it’s not surprising to see fast-moving markets emerging in cities like Manchester, Leeds and Sheffield.
“These locations have become solid investment hotspots, offering greater affordability, often higher rental yields and growing tenant demand.”
Looking further ahead, Cairnes said major infrastructure and regeneration opportunities could accelerate growth across the North West and beyond.
“Liverpool and Manchester have reportedly submitted a joint bid to host the 2040 Olympic Games, which is reportedly being considered at a significant political level.
“Hosting the Games could bring regeneration to the region on a scale never seen before,” he said.
He pointed to the long-term impact of the London 2012 Games as a potential blueprint.
“If we look back at London in 2012, the impact of the Games on regeneration was significant. Stratford and Lea Valley were among the capital’s most neglected areas, but the Games brought new streets, bridges, shopping centres and housing projects that continued well beyond the event itself.”
“If Liverpool and Manchester host the Games, we could see similar success, but potentially on an even larger scale.
“These cities are already more advanced in terms of regeneration than London was in 2012. An investment like the Olympics could help bring multiple projects into alignment.”
Beyond Carlisle, Liverpool and Manchester, Cairnes highlighted Leeds and Birmingham as northern cities to watch heading into 2026.
“Leeds has consistently been one of the North’s most reliable investment locations. It has a strong financial sector, a large student population and remains affordable, which drives steady demand for rental properties,” he said.
“Flats in the city centre, especially around South Bank, Holbeck and the Civic Quarter, are great investment options. When doing your research, target areas with good transport links, such as Leeds train station, to maximise tenant appeal and ensure long-term occupancy.”
On Birmingham, Cairnes said: “Birmingham has seen huge regeneration. Projects like the Big City Plan are reshaping the city and pushing rental demand to new levels.
“Properties near Curzon Street station or major employment hubs like Brindley Place are especially attractive. They’re well-connected and offer strong long-term growth potential.”
