Here are the top picks in the UK for 2023 according to Property Hub (podcast and Youtube channel):
1. Derby: shortage of quality rental accomodation, university, connectivity to rest of UK, good employers (hiring some of the grads who want to stay local). One of the higher wage areas outside of London but with relatively affordable property prices
2. Nottingham: similar themes to Derby
3. Leeds: similar themes as above, with the additional note that there was a building boom in the last crisis and so new builds lagged since then (until recently)
4. Manchester and Greater Manchester: lots of new development, the headlines called for a crash, it didn't happen as rent growth continued. Greater Manchester set to absorb spillover. Many call London the "Manchester of the South", strong loyalty, great nightlife/culture. Keep an eye on overbuilding risk.
5. Liverpool: regeneration, nightlife, young people
Next tier
a) Newcastle: Legal and General investing GBP 60m in 300 build to rent flats
b) Belfast: one of the few markets still below its 2007 peak, starting to move
c) Cardiff: a further 200m investment by L&G to build 700 flats. L&G has invested 1 billion in Cardiff to date
"For the brave" list:
-London (!!) London had a great run after GFC, yields are low, it's vulnerable, a LT view is required. But a great long term investment if you can get a good deal (forced sellers?)
-Glasgow: political risk and turning anti landlord. Great city though