Mish Liyanage – Property Expert

There’s no doubt the property market is challenging right now — rising costs, tougher regulation, and a shifting economy have changed the rules of the game.

But challenge always creates opportunity for those who know where to look.

As someone who’s worked through multiple market cycles, I’ve seen that the best entrepreneurs don’t wait for the perfect conditions — they build within the ones they’ve got.

And right now, the property market is full of strategic openings for those willing to take a smarter, more professional approach.

Here are the key opportunities property entrepreneurs should be focusing on today.

1. The Rise of Undersupplied Rental Markets

The UK is facing a structural housing shortage — and that imbalance isn’t going away anytime soon.

For investors, that means strong, sustained rental demand in most regions, particularly in the North and Midlands.

At Mistoria, we see consistent tenant demand across Liverpool, Salford, and Bolton, driven by students, young professionals, and families looking for affordable quality housing.

Entrepreneurs who can deliver well-managed, compliant, and attractive rental homes in these markets are tapping into a long-term growth story — not a short-term trend.

2. Repurposing and Refurbishment

With planning delays and construction costs rising, new builds can be challenging.

But existing properties — especially those that are tired, empty, or mismanaged — offer real potential.

Converting older housing stock into high-quality HMOs, co-living spaces, or serviced accommodation not only creates strong yields but also addresses local housing needs.

The best opportunities today lie in reimagining what already exists — taking unloved properties and turning them into valuable, income-generating assets.

3. Regional Growth and Regeneration

The government’s levelling-up agenda may have lost momentum politically, but economically, regional growth is still happening — driven by new business hubs, universities, and infrastructure projects across the North and Midlands.

Cities like Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds, and Sheffield are becoming magnets for young professionals and entrepreneurs.

That means rising rental demand, increasing inward investment, and opportunities for developers to create modern housing near growth zones.

For investors, the lesson is clear: follow regeneration, not headlines.

4. Professionalisation of the Market

As more landlords exit due to regulatory fatigue, a new generation of professional investors is stepping in — those who treat property as a business, not a hobby.

This shift is creating space for serious entrepreneurs who understand compliance, sustainability, and data-driven decision-making.

By raising standards, these investors are also raising returns — and reputation.

In my view, the next wave of property success stories will come from those who embrace professionalism as their competitive edge.

5. Alternative Finance and Partnerships

Traditional lending may be tighter, but capital hasn’t disappeared — it’s simply become more discerning.

Private investors, joint ventures, and crowdfunding platforms are increasingly filling the gap, particularly for experienced operators with proven track records.

Entrepreneurs who know how to structure deals, communicate clearly, and build trust can unlock funding opportunities that many overlook.

In today’s market, collaboration is as powerful as capital.

6. Sustainability as a Value Driver

Sustainability used to be a compliance issue. Now it’s an investment opportunity.

Energy-efficient refurbishments, renewable integrations, and sustainable design are all becoming value multipliers — not costs.

Tenants prefer greener homes, lenders are rewarding them, and local authorities are prioritising them.

Property entrepreneurs who get ahead of the green curve will future-proof their portfolios while supporting the wider shift toward responsible investment.

The Bottom Line

Yes, the market is changing — but it’s not closing.

Property remains one of the most tangible, resilient, and rewarding asset classes in the UK economy.

For entrepreneurs willing to think strategically, act professionally, and stay adaptable, the next few years could be the most exciting yet.

Because in every cycle, there are those who panic — and those who position.

The ones who do the latter build more than portfolios — they build legacies.