What is the best location to invest in property?

I get asked this all the time. Over dinner, at events, weddings, funerals, my barbers, even on holiday. I have a standard answer and it goes like this…

I don’t focus on one location, it’s all about the quality of the deal. For example let’s look at Sheffield, I am not currently actively looking for deals in Sheffield. But if a deal came my way that ticked the investment boxes I look for, then I would buy it. If I can negotiate a good price, there is strong rental demand, positive signs of future capital growth and the property is in a good condition then I will be very interested.

Since 2010 I’ve bought properties all over the UK; Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds, Birmingham, Devon, Doncaster, Kent, Wigan and Lancashire amongst others. For me those key principles of a deal still stand; price, rental demand, growth and build quality. When I was buying a more complex project such as a development site, a refurb project or an HMO then there was a lot more to take into consideration, such as greater consideration for my exit strategy and re-finance options.

Many first time investors look to make their first purchase close to where they live. They do this because it feels safe and they can quickly get there in the case of an emergency. Is this the right thing to do? Well it depends. If you don’t mind being a hands on investor, you believe in the prospects of your local area and you find a good deal then perhaps it is. However, the best deals out there are usually not on your door step. And most investors want to be hands off, they don’t want to be contacted by tenants at any hour of the day. That’s why I prefer to source my deals all over the UK as I never know where the next great deal might pop up. And furthermore, I get local agents to manage my property who can deal with the tenants if anything goes wrong.

The savviest investors I have met over the last 20 years have a two pronged attack to accumulating wealth. They have their day job and they have their investments. The two don’t cross paths. The investor focuses on their day job the majority of the time, earning a salary or perhaps building their business. While their property investments sit quietly in the background, being managed by other people while the rental income comes through and the value increases over time.

These investors don’t care if the property is 10 minutes away from where they live or 2 hours away. It’s all about the numbers and the fundamentals of making wise investment choices.

When it comes to location, solid market research is your strongest foundation. While it’s tempting to chase hotspots and obvious growth areas, the best opportunity might lie just off the radar. 

Whether you’re assessing footfall, transport links, or demographic shifts, make use of every tool at your disposal — from local knowledge to data platforms. And don’t underestimate the value of working with professionals. Experienced companies can provide insights, handle due diligence, and ultimately save you time, money, and stress.