A buzzing urban centre and the undisputed capital of northern England, Manchester is the UK’s second largest city with a population currently numbering close to 500,000. However, with a planned relocation of the BBC’s headquarters to Manchester imminent, this figure looks set to increase in the near future.

A product of the Industrial Revolution, Manchester’s splendid architecture owes much to the wealth of its early textile merchants who built impressive monuments such as the Victorian gothic-style Town Hall and John Rylands Library which still dominate the cityscape today. The wealthy suburbs of surrounding Cheshire, with their large houses on generous plots, owe much to the early wealth of Manchester’s merchants and industrialists.

Manchester has experienced its share of highs and lows over the years. After a spell of decline in the 1970’s and 80’s, Manchester’s fortunes began to change in the late 1990’s, thanks to a series of urban regeneration schemes and property redevelopment projects, which have seen many of the city’s derelict mills and warehouses transformed into stylish canal-side penthouses and apartments. These, in turn, have inspired a spate of architecturally ambitious high rise city centre developments over the last few decades which have only added to the city’s impressive skyline.

Coupled with improved transport links, including a metrolink tram system and investment brought in on the back of sporting events such as the 2002 Commonwealth Games, Manchester city centre is once again an exciting and trendy place to be.

Currently home to many young professionals and students, Manchester city life is abuzz with activity in its many shops, bars, restaurants and music venues, including the Arndale Shopping Centre – one of the largest city centre malls in the UK.

Boasting two Premiership football teams - Manchester City and Manchester United - and a successful county cricket club, Manchester is also considered to be a world-class sporting venue. Many famous English football players, including old boys Bobby Charlton and Colin Bell have both enjoyed playing here and the latest internationals being Joe Hart and Wayne Rooney.

As well as many excellent schools, the area is also home to The University of Manchester, a member of the prestigious Russell Group which continues to attract students from around the world.

Buying property in Greater Manchester offers the investment buyer a number of attractive propositions, from student accommodation in Manchester city centre and neighbouring areas such as Bolton, to upmarket rentals for city professionals in impressive new developments, as well as larger family homes in the leafy surrounding suburbs. Properties for sale in Greater Manchester are almost two and a half times cheaper than those of London, making them appealing propositions for both foreign and local real estate investors.

Properties for sale in Manchester