Preston, located in the heart of Lancashire, is fast becoming a key location for property investment in the North West of England. Known for its affordability, strong rental yields, and significant regeneration efforts, Preston offers exciting opportunities for both experienced and first-time property investors. Here’s a closer look at what makes Preston a standout location for investment.
What Makes
Preston’s Property Market Stand Out?
As of October 2024, the average property price in Preston is £193,373, well below the UK average of £377,216. While there has been a slight decline of 0.9% over the past year, Preston’s market remains resilient, with property values expected to benefit from the town’s regeneration and infrastructure investments.
Preston is known for offering excellent value for money, especially when compared to larger nearby cities such as Manchester (£238,000) and Liverpool (£176,000). Industry forecasts suggest that property values in Preston could see a 5-7% increase by 2028, driven by infrastructure upgrades and economic growth.
Property Market Overview
- Average House Price: £193,373 (October 2024).
- Rental Yields: 5.5%-8.6%, depending on the location.
- Tenant Base: A mix of students, young professionals, and families.
- Projected Growth: 5-7% by 2028.
- Key Regeneration Projects: Preston City Deal, UCLan Masterplan, Western Distributor Road.
Where to
Invest in Preston?
Here are some of the key areas driving Preston's investment market:
1. City Centre (PR1)
The city centre is the heart of Preston, attracting students, professionals, and young couples. It offers excellent transport links, vibrant nightlife, and proximity to UCLan, making it a prime location for buy-to-let investors.
2. Fulwood (PR2)
Fulwood is a suburban area known for its excellent schools, parks, and amenities. It is particularly popular with families and long-term renters, offering a mix of affordable and mid-range properties.
3. Ashton-on-Ribble (PR2)
Located along the River Ribble, Ashton offers a quieter residential atmosphere while still being close to the city centre. The area features a mix of apartments and family homes, making it appealing to a broad tenant base.
4. Deepdale (PR1)
Known for its affordability, Deepdale attracts students and first-time renters due to its proximity to UCLan and transport links. Properties here are more affordable, with strong rental yields.
Demographics and Tenant Demand
Preston is home to a population of approximately 145,000 people, with a diverse demographic that supports strong rental demand:
- Students: Over 30,000 students at UCLan drive demand for rental properties in the city centre and surrounding areas.
- Young Professionals: Many professionals working in nearby cities such as Manchester and Liverpool are drawn to Preston for its affordability and excellent transport links.
- Families: Suburban areas like Fulwood and Ashton-on-Ribble attract families due to their quality schools and community-focused living environments.
Why Are
People Investing
in Liverpool?
Few factors for investing in Liverpool.
Preston offers significantly lower property prices than larger nearby cities, making it an accessible option for investors.
High rental yields, particularly in the city center, provide excellent returns on investment.
Regeneration projects and infrastructure investments are driving long-term growth.
UCLan ensures a steady demand for rental properties, particularly in areas close to the university.
Exceptional transport links to Manchester, Liverpool, and London enhance Preston’s appeal to both tenants and investors.
Transport Links and Accessibility
Preston benefits from excellent connectivity, enhancing its appeal as a commuter hub:
- Rail Links: Preston is a major stop on the West Coast Main Line, offering direct trains to London (under 2.5 hours), Manchester (40 minutes), and Liverpool (50 minutes).
- Motorways: The M6, M61, and M55 provide easy road access to major cities in the North West and beyond.
- Future High-Speed Rail: Preston is set to benefit from improved connections through planned upgrades to rail infrastructure, further enhancing its desirability.
Why Preston is Perfect for Property Investors?
Preston offers a unique combination of affordability, high rental yields, and long-term growth potential. Its strategic location in the North West, combined with ongoing regeneration projects and a growing population, makes it a compelling choice for property investors. Whether you’re targeting high-yield student housing or family-friendly suburban properties, Preston has opportunities for every investment strategy.
Investing in Preston provides an opportunity to capitalize on a growing property market with both short-term rental returns and long-term capital appreciation.
- Average House Price: £193,373.
- Rental Yields: 5.5%-8.6%.
- Major Regeneration Projects: Preston City Deal, UCLan Masterplan.
- Population: Approximately 145,000 residents.
- Transport: Excellent rail and road links to Manchester, Liverpool, and London.
Rental Yields That Attract Investors
Preston offers rental yields ranging from 5.5% to 8.6%, depending on the area and property type. The presence of the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan), with over 30,000 students, significantly boosts demand for rental properties, particularly in areas close to the city centre.
Key rental data:
- City Centre (PR1): Rental yields are some of the highest in the area, reaching up to 8.6% due to demand from students and young professionals.
- Fulwood (PR2): A popular suburb for families, with steady rental demand and yields averaging 5.9%.
- Ashton-on-Ribble (PR2): Offers riverside properties and a mix of family homes and apartments, appealing to diverse tenant groups.