Manchester’s student housing market is being reshaped by the rapid rise of Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA). With modern amenities, all-inclusive rents, and a focus on student well-being, PBSA is redefining expectations and drawing students away from traditional private rentals. For landlords, this shift presents both challenges and new opportunities — from modernising properties to offering flexible, all-inclusive packages that keep them competitive in an evolving market.
By 2030, all UK rental properties must meet a minimum Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of Band C — a major shift toward greener, more efficient homes. While many landlords are worried about upgrade costs, there are smart, affordable ways to meet the standard. From low-cost improvements to government grants and phased upgrades, landlords can boost energy efficiency, protect their investments, and stay compliant without breaking the bank.
Labour’s proposed Renters’ Rights Bill is set to reshape the student rental market, particularly in cities like Manchester. With the abolition of fixed-term tenancies, stricter eviction rules, and new limits on rent increases, student landlords face major changes to how they manage their properties. While these reforms aim to strengthen tenant rights, they also bring new challenges around turnover, compliance, and profitability. Here’s what landlords need to know, and how to adapt in the evolving student housing landscape.
As rental regulations grow increasingly complex, more landlords are choosing to hand over portfolio management to professional agencies. Many older tenancy agreements, created in the 1990s and early 2000s, no longer meet today’s strict compliance standards. From gas and electrical safety checks to deposit protection and EPC requirements, ensuring every document is up to date is essential. Here’s how updating legacy portfolios safeguards landlords, protects tenants, and keeps property investments legally compliant in a changing rental landscape.
Tenant demand in the North West has reached record highs, while the supply of rental homes continues to shrink, creating a competitive but complex market for landlords. In Manchester, growing population pressures, new regulations, and rising costs are reshaping the rental landscape. For landlords, success now depends on staying informed, maintaining quality properties, and adapting strategies to meet soaring demand while managing risk.
During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, we introduced a series of measures to ensure business continuity and protect our customers, staff, and community. From remote working and virtual property viewings to online referencing and remote inspections, our focus remained on keeping everyone safe while maintaining our high service standards. These steps allowed Property Genius to continue supporting landlords and tenants with minimal disruption during one of the most challenging times for the property industry.
We’re thrilled to announce one of the biggest milestones in our journey so far, Property Genius has officially acquired South Manchester Flat Agency (SMFA). This marks our largest and most exciting expansion to date, and it represents an incredible opportunity to grow, evolve, and serve even more landlords and tenants across Greater Manchester.
Subscribe to receive the latest property market information to your inbox, full of market knowledge and tips for your home.
You may unsubscribe at any time. See our Privacy Policy.
