Northern England and Scotland are expected to be the leading UK property hotspots this year, according to a forecast by housing website Zoopla. The analysis considered affordability, average selling time, percentage of long-term listings, and likelihood of price reductions to identify areas with strong prospects for 2026. Predominantly, Scottish regions claimed nine out of the top 10 spots based on these criteria.
Motherwell (ML) emerged as the top hotspot, with prices predicted to rise by 3.4% to £134,700. Homes in Motherwell typically sell within 14 days, with only 7% listed for over six months. Glasgow followed closely as the runner-up, with an average property price of £163,600 forecasted to increase by 3%, boasting a quick selling time and minimal price cuts.
In England, the North West region, particularly Wigan’s WN postcode, stood out as the only entrant in Zoopla’s national top 10 list. Wigan offers affordability with an average property price of £175,800, projected to rise by 3% in 2026, albeit with a slightly longer selling time compared to the national average.
Liverpool ranked 11th on the list, with property prices expected to increase by 3.5% this year. Other English areas showing strong property market potential include Stoke-on-Trent, Wolverhampton, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Carlisle, and Northampton.
Conversely, previously high-priced areas in London now find themselves at the bottom of the list. Zoopla anticipates a 1.8% decline in prices for London’s West Central (WC) area, despite its significantly above-average property value. Neighboring West London (W postcode) is ranked as the next weakest, followed by East Central London and South West (SW) London.
In Wales, Cardiff is projected to be a promising property market due to a low percentage of long-term listings. Northern Ireland experienced the highest house price inflation over the past year at 6.5%, with Belfast ranking 25th nationally for 2026.
Richard Donnell, executive director at Zoopla, emphasized the importance of local housing market conditions for informed decision-making in the current property landscape. While Scotland and Northern England offer the strongest prospects, opportunities exist across the UK where demand and affordability align well. Individual property characteristics and local market demand play pivotal roles, urging sellers to seek tailored insights from local agents for successful sales in 2026.
