The UK’s buy-to-let (BTL) property market has long been a cornerstone of investment strategy, but in 2025, it’s the northern cities – Manchester, Birmingham, and Liverpool – that are stealing the spotlight. With strong rental yields, surging tenant demand, and ambitious regeneration projects, these cities are redefining what it means to invest smartly in property. And behind the scenes, Notch Digital is helping BTL and commercial property businesses turn opportunity into action through cutting-edge lead generation and marketing strategies.
Let’s explore what’s fueling the northern buy-to-let surge – and how Notch Digital is helping property businesses stay ahead of the curve.
Manchester: The Powerhouse of Northern Property Investment
Manchester continues to top the charts for BTL investors—and for good reason. As of 2024, the city boasts an average rental yield of 6.56%, driven by a potent mix of high tenant demand and relatively affordable property prices. The average monthly rent sits at £1,291, with an impressive 11.3% annual growth rate.
The city’s economic engine is humming, with a GDP per capita of £51,330 and a total GDP of £28 billion. Manchester’s thriving finance, tech, and media sectors attract a steady influx of young professionals, while its three major universities—home to over 100,000 students—ensure consistent demand for rental accommodation.
Regeneration is another key driver. The £4 billion Victoria North development alone will deliver 15,000 new homes and thousands of jobs, while the expansion of MediaCityUK and redevelopment of Old Trafford are transforming the cityscape.
Birmingham: Affordability Meets Ambition
Birmingham, the UK’s second-largest city, offers a compelling blend of affordability and growth. With an average rental yield of 5.5%, it’s a strong contender for investors seeking returns without the steep entry costs of London.
The city’s five universities, including the University of Birmingham and Aston University, support a student population of over 80,000, creating a robust rental market. Meanwhile, Birmingham’s economy is thriving, powered by finance, manufacturing, and a burgeoning tech scene.
Major infrastructure projects like HS2 and the Big City Plan are reshaping the urban landscape, enhancing connectivity and boosting property values. For investors, Birmingham offers a rare combination of long-term capital appreciation and short-term rental income.
Liverpool: The Underdog with Unmatched Potential
Liverpool may be the underdog of the trio, but it’s quickly gaining ground. The city’s average rental yield hovers around 6.2%, with some postcodes exceeding 7%, making it one of the most profitable BTL locations in the UK.
Liverpool’s economy is on the rise, with strong growth in the digital, creative, and maritime sectors. The city is also undergoing a wave of regeneration, including the £5 billion Liverpool Waters project and the transformation of the Knowledge Quarter.
With a student population of over 70,000 and a growing number of young professionals, Liverpool’s rental market is both stable and scalable. For investors looking to get in early on a city with serious upside, Liverpool is a prime target.
The Bigger Picture: Why the North Is Outpacing London
While London remains a global property hub, its high prices and lower yields (averaging around 3.5%) have prompted many investors to look north. According to GetGround, 24% of BTL investors now choose Manchester, followed by 12% in Liverpool and 6% in Birmingham.
This shift is driven by more than just numbers. Northern cities offer a better balance of affordability, rental demand, and long-term growth potential. With ongoing regeneration and infrastructure investment, they’re becoming magnets for both domestic and international investors.
Turning Market Potential into Measurable Growth
In a fiercly competitive property landscape, visibility is everything. That’s where Notch Digital comes in. As a specialist digital marketing agency with deep roots in the property sector, Notch has carved out a niche helping BTL and commercial property businesses generate high-quality leads and build lasting brand authority.
1. Precision PPC Campaigns
Notch’s pay-per-click (PPC) strategies are tailored to the unique needs of property investors and developers. By targeting high-intent keywords and leveraging geo-specific data, Notch ensures that every pound spent delivers maximum ROI. Whether it’s promoting new developments in Manchester or driving investor interest in Birmingham, their PPC campaigns are built to convert.
2. SEO That Speaks Property
Search engine optimisation is more than just keywords—it’s about understanding the buyer journey. Notch crafts content strategies that align with what investors and tenants are searching for, from “best BTL areas in Liverpool” to “commercial property investment tips.” Their SEO expertise ensures clients rank high in search results and stay top-of-mind.
3. Lead Funnels That Work
Notch doesn’t just generate traffic—they build conversion funnels that turn interest into action. From landing pages optimised for lead capture to automated email sequences that nurture prospects, their approach is data-driven and results-focused.
4. Social Media That Sells
In today’s market, social proof matters. Notch helps property brands build trust and engagement through targeted social media campaigns. Whether it’s showcasing a new development on Instagram or running LinkedIn ads for commercial property investors, they know how to make content resonate.
A Legacy of Property Marketing Excellence
What sets Notch apart is their extensive experience in the property sector. They don’t just understand digital marketing—they understand property. From BTL to commercial real estate, Notch has worked with developers, agents, and investment firms across the UK, helping them navigate market shifts and seize new opportunities.
Their team brings a rare blend of creative flair and analytical rigour, allowing them to craft campaigns that are both visually compelling and performance-driven. And because they stay plugged into the latest market trends, they’re always one step ahead—whether it’s adapting to new regulations or capitalising on emerging hotspots.
Looking Ahead: The Future of BTL and Commercial Property Marketing
As we move deeper into 2025, the property market will continue to evolve. Interest rates, government policy, and shifting tenant preferences will all play a role. But one thing is clear: digital marketing will be the linchpin of success.
For BTL and commercial property businesses, partnering with an agency that understands both the market and the medium is no longer optional—it’s essential. And with its proven track record, sector expertise, and relentless focus on results, Notch Digital is perfectly positioned to lead the way.
Ready to elevate your property marketing? Whether you’re a developer launching a new site in Manchester or a property business requiring an influx of lead volume, Notch Digital has the tools and strategic talent, to help you succeed. Speak to our team.
