Liverpool’s buy-to-let market is performing strongly. The city’s average rent rose by 5.4% in the year to September, while property prices remain lower than in other major urban centres across the country. A typical house cost £188,000 in August 2026, compared with £257,000 in Manchester and £246,000 in Leeds.
Therefore, Liverpool is an excellent place to do business. However, this does not mean every property will deliver strong returns. The rent a landlord can achieve depends on the apartment’s location, condition, layout, and running costs, as well as the type of tenant it is designed to attract.
That is why, before making any investment, buyers need to assess which types of apartments perform best. The answer depends entirely on the kind of tenant they intend to attract. A well-designed one-bedroom flat offers a sensible starting point for investors targeting individuals and couples. A two-bedroom property adds flexibility and a wider potential audience.
One-bedroom apartments for independent living
Found a one-bedroom apartment? Great.
It could be ideal for a professional living alone, offering privacy and enough space without the cost of a larger property. It can also suit couples looking to keep their expenses down, giving them a place of their own while keeping rent and household bills manageable.
The more desirable units are the ones that make everyday routines comfortable. A separate bedroom creates a clear division between sleeping and living, while a practical kitchen allows someone to cook properly after work. Storage gives coats, suitcases, and cleaning equipment a place of their own.
A good way to broaden the property’s appeal is to make it suitable for professionals who work from home. Space for a desk away from the bed can suit tenants who split their week between office days and remote meetings.
Before buying, assess the relationship between the purchase price and the rent the asset could achieve. A carefully priced one-bedroom apartment may produce a stronger return than a larger property bought at a premium.
Two-bedroom apartments for greater flexibility
A two-bedroom apartment may be more expensive, but it can appeal to a wider audience. It can suit working professionals who share a flat, a couple wanting a home office, or an individual who regularly hosts family.
That flexibility makes it worth considering, particularly where the additional rent supports the higher purchase price and running costs.
For sharers, the priority is to avoid disagreements between future housemates. Two rooms with similar space and storage make the property easier to divide fairly, while a substantial difference in size can complicate decisions about rent contributions.
For couples without children, a smaller second bedroom may work perfectly well as an office. If they plan to have a child, even better, as the space can return to its original purpose.
Studios for tenants prioritising affordability
A studio can appeal to someone who wants to live independently while keeping their monthly housing costs manageable. For a professional spending much of the working week away from home, a compact apartment in a convenient location may be a practical choice.
Here, layout carries particular weight. Space for a proper bed and useful kitchen worktops helps the apartment function as a home. Storage becomes especially valuable when every possession shares the same room.
Pay close attention to the rent difference between studios and one-bedroom apartments nearby. The smaller unit needs a convincing proposition, whether that comes through its price or a particularly convenient address.
Locations suited to the tenant’s routine
Professionals choose homes around different working lives. An office worker based in the commercial district may value a walk to work, while a nurse might prioritise access to a particular hospital.
Evaluate each apartment through the eyes of its likely tenant. Consider the journey to their workplace and the convenience of everyday shopping. For someone working late shifts, check transport availability at the relevant hours.
Visit the street at different times, too. An apartment that feels peaceful during an afternoon viewing may offer a very noisy experience on a Friday evening.
A home worth staying in
A well-proportioned one-bedroom apartment is a sensible option to investigate for individuals and couples. A two-bedroom flat offers greater flexibility where the additional space commands sufficient rent. Studios can serve tenants seeking an affordable home of their own.
Choosing between them starts with understanding the person who might collect the keys. Picture their morning routine and where they will sit after a tiring day. The apartment that makes those ordinary moments comfortable gives a tenant a reason to stay.
Are you interested in investing in Liverpool’s professional rental market? We can help you explore apartment investment opportunities suited to your goals. Browse our property investments in Liverpool or get in touch with our team to discuss your next investment.
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