If, like me, you’re a football fan – and most probably even if you’re not – you’ll know that the north west is home to some of the world’s best football players and in fact, the area has more Premiership clubs than any other part of the country. With players from six of the 20 current premier league clubs including Manchester United; Manchester City; Liverpool FC; and Everton opting to live in the area, there is no wonder parts of Cheshire and south Manchester thrive when it comes to the property market. Cheshire’s ‘golden circle’ which consists of hot spots such as Hale, Wilmslow, Alderley Edge and Prestbury are all prime spots high on the list of domestic and international footballers alike, with Manchester city centre also proving particularly popular.

The north west was a hive of transfer activity during this summer’s football transfer window with four of the six Premiership clubs featuring in the top five spending teams. The transient nature of the sport and the tax implications of buying bricks and mortar means that we are increasingly seeing footballers choosing to rent their primary residence. Whilst many domestic footballers tend to buy, around 60 per cent of UK based footballers are international so they naturally veer towards rental properties. As a result of the transfer activity demand for luxury rental properties has been unprecedented and landlords with suitable properties have taken advantage of quick lets and significantly inflated rental levels.

So what kind of place fits the bill? We regularly meet young players and their wives or girlfriends, often with new families, who tend to resonate more with newer build properties or those which are refurbished to a very high standard. A cliché perhaps, but more often than not they will choose convenience over character, with ultra modern properties always the most sought after. If they’re high spec, open plan and full of the latest technology, even better. Landlords looking to take advantage of the region’s thriving football scene should remove that antique patterned rug immediately.

It doesn’t have to be a mansion; but it often is. For the really big bucks, you’ll need a swimming pool, gym and cinema room. Having said that, some footballers, particularly those without families, simply don’t want the burden of masses of space. We get just as many enquiries for high-specification apartments or smaller houses as we do for large properties. Most footballers are cash rich and time poor so something that is ready to move into is also a must, often at short notice – it isn’t out of the ordinary to find a suitable property and move them in within the week.

There are a few other things which are always top of the shopping list. Ample parking is key and both players and their clubs insist on excellent security, which is why gated communities and properties with private driveways tend to be a big draw.

Footballers place value in a highly confidential, professional service – often non disclosure agreements are signed by Savills staff. We are trusted and they come to us because we know the local market, but we have the added advantage of being both national and global. Our dedicated Sports and Entertainment team have vast experience in dealing with clients in this marketplace. They are in-the-know on all the latest market trends and can provide insight for landlords and vendors on how to maximise appeal amongst footballers. Not only that, but they can also provide relocation advice for players and families looking to move.

With football transfer activity and wage increases showing no sign of slowing down, the transfer windows can offer a very interesting, and fruitful, lettings market for luxury property owners considering their options. With the January football transfer window fast approaching for which we’re already receiving enquiries, and ad hoc transfers taking place throughout the season, there are some serious goals to be scored.

Further information

Contact Savills Cheshire or Savills Sports, Media & Entertainment