The North West property market continues to show resilience in 2026, with the region attracting interest from first-time buyers, upsizers and property investors, which is excellent news for anyone considering selling over the coming months.
Across Edward Mellor’s core areas, including Stockport, Tameside and Greater Manchester, affordability and demand are continuing to support stronger growth, while Cheshire remains a premium, lifestyle-led market with steady, more measured movement.
Nationally, buyer sentiment remains cautious. The latest RICS survey recorded a net balance of -34% for new buyer demand in April, marginally less downbeat than the -40% recorded the previous month.*
However, the North West continues to stand out, with respondents reporting a +20% net balance increase in new buyer enquiries, showing that the region remains one of the more resilient parts of the UK property market. (1)
*Net balance = proportion of respondents reporting a rise minus those reporting a fall. For example, if 30% reported a rise and 5% reported a fall, the net balance would be 25%.
Across Stockport, Tameside and Greater Manchester, affordability, connectivity and sustained buyer demand continue to support stronger performance than the wider market.
Over the last 12 months, the average sales price across these areas was £244,968, with a total sales value of £1.51 billion. Flats accounted for 13% of sales, achieving an average price of £163,556, while houses achieved an average price of £259,876. (2)
Looking at current pricing:
Across every property type, values in Stockport, Tameside and the surrounding areas served by Edward Mellor are outperforming the wider North West of England.
Over the past year, average sale prices across these areas have risen by 4.0%, compared with 0.9% across the North West and a fall of 2.3% across England & Wales.
This reflects sustained buyer demand for accessible, well-connected locations across the North West.
This is excellent for sellers who, despite a competitive market, are well placed to achieve good prices for their homes if they plan their pricing strategy correctly.
The North West continues to stand out as a powerhouse for property sales, with first-time buyers, upsizers and property investors all seeking to capitalise on the region’s availability of stock, competitive pricing and thriving local economy.
If you’re thinking of selling, it’s important to remember that not setting the right asking price from the outset can lead to homes languishing on the market and losing appeal to potential buyers.
In a somewhat cautious market, this can seriously impact final sale prices and your ability to complete an onward move.
This is why an accurate understanding of your home’s value is more important than ever. To find out what your home could be worth in the current market, book a free property valuation today.
Book a Free Property Valuation
The UK property market continues to feel the impact of an unpredictable global economy and higher borrowing costs than many buyers had become used to in previous years.
The Bank of England held the Base Rate at 3.75% at its April meeting, with one MPC member voting to increase rates to 4.0%. The Bank also noted that the conflict in the Middle East had made the outlook for global energy prices highly uncertain. (3)
Although inflation has eased, household budgets remain under pressure. CPI inflation rose by 2.8% in the 12 months to April, down from 3.3% in March. (4)
The wider economy is still growing, but at a measured pace. Monthly GDP grew by 0.3% in March, following growth of 0.4% in February. (5)
At the same time, house price data continues to show a mixed national picture. The average UK house price was £268,132 in March, unchanged from a year earlier. (6)
Average new seller asking prices rose by 1.2% in May to £378,304, exceeding the typical ten-year May increase of 1.0%, although prices remained 0.3% lower than in May 2025. (7)
The North West, however, has continued to evolve as a ‘powerhouse’ within the property industry, with traditionally lower house prices and good connectivity to Manchester helping to drive demand.
The attractiveness of the region continues to attract a broad base of potential buyers, including first-time buyers, upsizers, and movers relocating from more expensive regions.
In essence:
Property sales across the North West remain strong, with some important caveats for sellers.
Although demand for property across the region remains positive, buyers are still acutely aware of higher mortgage costs, which is driving a more cautious approach to moving home.
This can mean longer decision times, and homes in need of decorating or renovation work may have a harder time selling in the current climate.
National transaction levels also show a more selective market. There were 104,070 UK residential transactions in March, down around 41% year-on-year. (8)
Overall, market conditions remain positive for sellers across the North West. The region’s popularity has continued well into 2026, meaning that despite elevated buyer caution, the market remains resilient and highly active in the right price brackets.
Stockton Heath and Northwich continue to stand apart from the wider North West market. Known for strong schooling options and high-quality housing, they attract a different type of buyer — one driven less by affordability and more by lifestyle, space and long-term value.
While markets driven by first-time buyers and affordability have seen stronger short-term growth, the strength of Stockton Heath and Northwich lies in their consistency and resilience at higher price points.
The property market in Stockton Heath and Northwich continues to reflect its position as one of the North West’s most desirable locations. Unlike more affordability-driven areas, pricing here is shaped by lifestyle appeal, quality of housing and long-term demand from equity-rich buyers.
Over the last 12 months, the average sales price across Cheshire Core was £327,164, with a total sales value of £344.5 million. Flats accounted for 10% of sales, achieving an average sales price of £138,022, while houses achieved an average price of £360,654. (9)
Current average prices:
Detached homes in particular command a significant premium, sitting well above both regional and national averages.
Compared to regional benchmarks:
Overall, Cheshire’s pricing highlights its strength as a premium, lifestyle-led market where demand is driven by quality and location rather than affordability alone.
The Cheshire market generally behaves differently to more urban areas, with buyer motivations and decision-making shaped by longer-term life choices rather than short-term market conditions.
In essence, the market in Stockton Heath and Northwich is a needs-driven market, where buyers prioritise lifestyle and long-term suitability over speed — resulting in more considered, but often more stable, transactions.
While activity remains healthy, the pace of the market reflects the higher price points and more deliberate nature of buyers operating in Stockton Heath and Northwich.
This creates a balanced market, where success depends on realistic pricing, strong presentation and patience. Sellers who align with current conditions are still achieving good results.
Looking across the North West, the contrast between markets is becoming clearer, with each area following its own trajectory.
Across the North West, two clear trends are emerging:
Across both markets:
Ultimately, 2026 is shaping up to be a market defined by realism and strategy. Whether in fast-moving urban areas or premium lifestyle locations like Cheshire, those who adapt to buyer expectations will see the strongest outcomes.
Whether you are buying, selling or investing, understanding the local market is key to making the right move.
For those who are selling, Edward Mellor offers over 40 years of proven industry experience. The insight of our local teams can help sellers set the right price for their property from the outset and develop an exclusive marketing strategy.
This is vital in a competitive market where buyers have more choice than in previous years.
Book a Free Property Valuation
If you’re purchasing with a mortgage, Edward Mellor’s in-house mortgage advisors can help guide you through your options and secure the most suitable deal for your circumstances.
For tailored advice on the local housing market, speak to your local Edward Mellor team today.
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