Northern England and Scotland have emerged as the top contenders for the UK’s property hotspots in the upcoming year. Zoopla, a popular housing website, has analyzed various factors such as affordability, selling time, unsold properties, and potential price reductions to identify the regions expected to perform well in 2026.
The analysis revealed that areas where homes sell quickly, often without price cuts and with minimal unsold stock, are likely to thrive. Scotland particularly stands out, claiming nine out of the top 10 spots based on these criteria.
According to Zoopla’s predictions, Motherwell (ML) in Scotland is set to be the most sought-after postcode this year, with prices expected to rise by 3.4%. In comparison, Glasgow follows closely as the runner-up, with a forecasted 3% price increase. Both locations boast fast-selling properties and low percentages of homes on the market for an extended period.
In England, the North West, particularly Wigan’s WN postcode, shines as the only entry in Zoopla’s national top 10 list. Despite an average property price of £175,800 and a projected 3% increase, homes in Wigan take slightly longer to sell compared to the national average.
Liverpool ranks 11th on the list, with a 3.5% price growth expectation. Other English regions showing promising property market prospects include Stoke-on-Trent, Wolverhampton, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Carlisle, and Northampton.
Conversely, previously high-flying areas in terms of house prices now find themselves at the bottom of the list. London’s West Central (WC) area, expected to see a 1.8% price decrease this year, remains significantly pricier than the national average. Neighboring West London and other London regions also feature low on the list.
Cardiff in Wales emerges as a favorable property destination due to a low percentage of homes on the market for an extended period. Northern Ireland has experienced significant house price inflation, with Belfast ranking 25th nationally this year.
Zoopla’s Executive Director, Richard Donnell, emphasizes the importance of local housing market conditions in making informed decisions. He highlights the areas with strong growth potential in sales activity and house price rises for 2026, particularly in Scotland and Northern England. He advises sellers and buyers to consider local demand, affordability, and selling times when navigating the property market in the coming year.