Top 5 cities to move to as a first time buyer
We all know the peril that can come with scrolling through websites, magazines and advertisements, creating lists and mood boards while searching through all kinds of reviews and ratings- no I’m not talking about booking your next all inclusive holiday- I’m talking about buying your first home. If you’re anything like the rest of us you probably spend more time looking for the right hotel and flights and night time entertainment package than you do on the holiday itself so don’t worry if searching for a place to set down your roots is proving a testing activity. But with thanks to the new shared ownership scheme you can get your hands on a brand new home in your ideal location without hefy deposits and a huge mortgage. So check out our straight talking guide to some of these top cities and take advantage of some great locations.
Brighton
Of course, coming out on top, wiping the deck with its heavenly sea views and placid pace of living, Brighton, with its hippie vibe and formidable ice cream ticks all the boxes for anyone looking to feel like they’re on a lifelong staycation. Home to the famous pier, a buzzing nightlife and of course the international treasure, Pewdie Pie, shared ownership in Brighton is a dream come true with an endless stretch of seaside and eclectic range of quirky cafes, vintage shops and seafood restaurants. Definitely a place to settle in to the sunny side of life, Brighton should certainly be on your short list if you’re a lover of yoga on the beach and sea spray in the air.
Newcastle upon Tyne
Calling all northern lads and lasses (or those who aspire to be them) Newcastle is a city that will have you thanking the Angel of the North you set foot on this vibrant and exciting metropolis. First things first, you can get cheesy chips with gravy here. Need I say anymore? Shared Ownership in Newcastle offers a wild night life unrivalled in the UK and a dynamic arts and culture scene. Home to some of the most famous musicians including Jimi Hendrix, it would be difficult not to catch a case of the infectious creativity and innovation this city is famed for. And best of all this city has the most Greggs bakeries in the country. No, this is not a drill.
Manchester
If you’re looking for a city that ticks just about every box on your metaphorical list of must haves then Manchester is your man. From the offbeat buzz of the Northern Quarter to the sky high swanky bars of spinningfields, shared ownership in Manchester offers everything whether it’s a casual bring the dog along kind of night or you’ve got a 4 hour hair nails and makeup appointment before hand and a new pair of 6 inch heels to compliment the spray tan. Home to the biggest indie bands and some world-changing scientists, Manchester is a city that really out does itself.
Oxford
We’ve all heard of the university but you don’t have to pass any exams to move to this charming city. While you may be faced with a challenge should you go out to any pub quizzes around here, the city itself exudes an age old atmosphere with its zany streets and decorative architecture. With some smart guy naming it ‘the city of dreaming spires’ there is certainly something enchanting about this university city in the south.
Liverpool
If you didn’t already know the Beatles were from Liverpool then believe me, once you set foot on this city on the North side of the River Mersey, then you’re about to be reminded at every corner, at every cafe at every KFC and cross road, from the top of the radio tower to the back of the ladies loos in wetherspoons. Liverpool has been rightly crowned the Capital of
Culture and believe it or not has for more to offer than its local patron saint John Lennon. A thriving nightlife and a few Banksy bradishes to its name, Liverpool knows how to rock this side of the North.
So whether you’ve got your eyes set on shared ownership in Liverpool, you like the look of properties for sale in Brighton or you’re all about that preppy Oxford life, choosing your first home is an exciting venture into the world of adulting. So enjoy the process and trust your gut, especially when it comes to the pies in Manchester.
You May Also Enjoy
Rights Act: Key changes renters need to know — new rules start on 1 May 2026
What Would Make Me Stay: How Tenants Are Redefining What Home Really Means
Competition for rented homes falls to lowest level in six years
Mortgage lending now supports 30% of housing stock
Is it worth buying a fixer-upper property?
