New data has revealed the UK's most underrated towns, where houses cost up to 25 per cent less than the national average.
The report analysed multiple factors including affordability, commuting convenience, crime rates, school ratings, quality of life and rising house prices, to identify hidden property gems across the country.
These locations offer significant value compared to nearby trendy neighbourhoods whilst maintaining good transport links to major cities, according to the data from Sell House Fast.
The study provides a lifeline for prospective homebuyers struggling with the current property market, highlighting areas that combine affordability with desirable living conditions.
Part of Leeds topped the list
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Horsforth in Leeds has claimed the top spot in the rankings with an impressive score of 7.05 out of 10. The town offers fast commuting times to Leeds city centre, with just 29 minutes by car and 26 minutes by train.
With an average house price of £328,259, Horsforth presents a significantly more affordable option compared to Leeds' trendier areas like Roundhay (£435,245) and Bramhope (£537,503).
The town boasts excellent amenities, including 22 coffee shops, 65 bars and pubs, and 141 restaurants within five miles.
Despite a slightly higher crime risk score than other top-ranked locations, Horsforth's vibrant local scene and strong educational options make it a compelling alternative for buyers.
Following Horsforth in the rankings is Rowley Regis, a Birmingham commuter town scoring 6.96/10, with an average house price of just £206,009 - this is 23.2 per cent below the UK average, according to the research. Sutton Coldfield takes third place with a score of 6.39/10, offering properties at an average of £394,443.
Top 10 most underrated places to buy
| Rank | Location | Avg House Price | Overall Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Horsforth (Leeds) | £328,259 | 7.05 |
| 2 | Rowley Regis (Birmingham) | £206,009 | 6.96 |
| 3 | Sutton Coldfield (Birmingham) | £394,443 | 6.39 |
| 4 | Chesterfield (Sheffield) | £212,576 | 6.29 |
| 5 | Dronfield (Sheffield) | £273,863 | 6.19 |
| 6 | Kenilworth (Birmingham) | £449,304 | 6.12 |
| 7 | Hitchin (London) | £488,466 | 5.97 |
| 8 | Newton-le-Willows (Manchester) | £217,662 | 5.73 |
| 9 | Ware (London) | £418,336 | 5.50 |
| 10 | Mossley (Manchester) | £200,244 | 5.39 |
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Areas in Manchester were on the list
GETTYThese towns offer excellent value compared to their hub cities, with Mossley providing the most affordable option at 25% below the national average. The data also reveals which local authorities have seen the biggest house price increases over the past decade.
Causeway Coast and Glens in Northern Ireland tops the list with a staggering 99.3 per cent increase, with average prices rising from £101,205 in February 2015 to £201,714 by February 2025.
Salford follows closely with a 96.4 per cent increase, jumping from £113,010 to £221,910 in the same period. The area has become increasingly popular with Manchester commuters.
Other significant risers include Rochdale (92.6 per cent), Oldham (90.9 per cent), and Manchester itself (90.9 per cent). Despite these dramatic increases, many of these areas remain relatively affordable for first-time buyers compared to national averages.
