From time to time we focus on a place – often as a result of a question or correspondence from a reader of our property blog – and today we’re visiting (virtually, of course) Whitefield in Bury, Greater Manchester. Whitefield lies to the North-west of Manchester with good transport links to Bolton, Bury, Rochdale and Manchester itself. Whitefield was an important Mill Town in the 19th century and has a current population of around 25,000.
Earlier this year Salford in Greater Manchester was named as one of the top 10 most affordable cities to live in by a Lloyds TSB study which quoted an average price to wages ration of 4.11 – but what about Whitefield? Well it seems Whitefield presents an affordable option in itself – the average house price (according to proviser.com) stands at £157,013 in the M45 postcode – nearly £3000 below the national average of £162,621 (Land Registry).
Whitefield’s proximity to Manchester also adds to its allure. Apart from two world class football clubs, Manchester has a thriving music scene and nightlife – making it an attractive place to live for the young and the young at heart. First time buyers especially may well find in Whitefield somewhere that’s close to a lively city and affordable. (Hint: Try the Halifax Mortgage Calculator for more info on how much monthly repayments would be.)
Some facts about Whitefield:
- Bury Borough (which Whitefield is part of) has the lowest crime rate in Greater Manchester (source: Zoopla)
- Local schools are considered to the best in the North West and above the national average (source: Zoopla)
- Within 20 minutes commute into Manchester City Center by Metrolink (1 tram every 6 minutes)
- Large properties are often sold below the stamp duty threshold.
- South Manchester (Didsbury, Chorlton etc) is becoming more expensive for first time buyers, so North Manchester is becoming an attractive first time buyer option
- Low car insurance premiums compared to the rest of Greater Manchester
- Bury Borough is next to Salford which is one of the country’s most affordable places to live (but has a higher crime rate and higher car insurance premiums).
So it seems Whitefield has a lot going for it. Low crime, affordable houses and good transport links to the city of Manchester and beyond. If you’re looking around the Manchester area, Whitefield could be a good place to start your search.