How Liverpool landlords can benefit from the ‘Hollywood of the North’ film boom

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Liverpool has always been a city with character, charm and cinematic appeal. Now, it’s fast becoming one of the UK’s busiest film and TV production hubs, often dubbed the ‘Hollywood of the North.’ From Marvel blockbusters to Netflix dramas, Liverpool’s streets, docks and Georgian terraces are increasingly appearing on screen — and this is creating real opportunities for local landlords.

As production companies descend on the city with their crews, equipment and creative teams, demand for flexible, high-quality rental accommodation has soared. For landlords willing to adapt, this surge in short-term and professional rental needs can translate into strong, consistent yields.

At Northwood Liverpool, we work with a growing number of landlords who are successfully letting to film crews, relocation professionals and production staff. In this article, we explore how to take advantage of the opportunity, what types of lets work best, and how to ensure your property is ready for its starring role.

Liverpool’s film boom: lights, camera, rental action

The figures tell a compelling story. According to the Liverpool Film Office, the region welcomed more than 250 productions in 2023 alone, bringing in over £70 million in economic impact. Productions filmed here in recent years include The Batman, Peaky Blinders, Taylor Swift’s music video, and parts of Netflix’s The Crown.

With studios expanding and the city’s reputation growing globally, this pace shows no signs of slowing. While some production companies use hotels or serviced apartments, many rely on short-term rented homes to house their teams. These might include location managers, editors, set designers, lighting technicians and actors — all of whom need places to live during filming periods that typically last between a few weeks and several months.

This is where the savvy landlord comes in.

What is a corporate let — and why is it ideal for film professionals?

A corporate let is a fully furnished property that is rented to an individual or team via a company or corporate arrangement. It offers:

  • Flexible rental terms (often 2–6 months)

  • All-inclusive bills (Wi-Fi, council tax, energy)

  • Professional-standard interiors and furnishings

  • Proximity to workplaces or production sites

For film professionals, these lets are ideal. Unlike a traditional AST (Assured Shorthold Tenancy), which typically runs for 6 or 12 months, a corporate let offers the freedom to move in and out quickly, without compromising on comfort.

Some landlords work directly with production companies or relocation agents. Others market their properties to vetted professionals using letting agents with corporate experience — like Northwood Liverpool.

Got a property near Liverpool city centre? Discover how much it could earn with a corporate tenant. Book your free valuation today.

Best Liverpool areas for film-related lets

Demand for short-term professional accommodation tends to cluster around areas with good transport, creative appeal, and production access. Based on our lettings experience, these are the top hotspots:

Baltic Triangle and Ropewalks

Liverpool’s creative heartbeat, packed with converted warehouses, coffee shops, and coworking spaces. Film crews love its proximity to production sites and nightlife.

  • Property type: modern apartments, 1–2 beds

  • Ideal for: editors, digital teams, solo crew members

  • Average rent: £1,100–£1,450 pcm (2-bed, furnished, bills included)

Georgian Quarter

This area often appears in period dramas thanks to its striking architecture. As a result, many cast and crew want to stay close.

  • Property type: period flats and terraced houses

  • Ideal for: senior crew, actors, long-stay creatives

  • Average rent: £1,200–£1,800 pcm (short-term let)

Wavertree and Allerton

Further from the centre but well-connected and affordable. Great for larger homes and parking, which crews transporting equipment appreciate.

  • Property type: 3–4 bed semis and terraces

  • Ideal for: teams sharing, production runners

  • Average rent: £1,000–£1,350 pcm

City Centre Apartments

For professionals who want walkability, security and a modern living space. Many come with concierge services.

  • Property type: 1–2 bed flats

  • Ideal for: short-term stays, admin staff

  • Average rent: £850–£1,200 pcm

What film professionals need from a rental property

Film crews may be flexible on location but expect a high standard of living. Key requirements include:

  • Furnishings: comfortable, modern, fully equipped (including kitchenware and linens)

  • Utilities: Wi-Fi is essential, plus council tax and energy included where possible

  • Flexible terms: 2–6 month tenancies or rolling monthly agreements

  • Proximity: quick access to city centre or specific filming zones

  • Parking/storage: especially important for tech and crew vehicles

  • Responsive management: rapid support for repairs or questions

Meeting these needs can make your property far more attractive to professionals and companies.

Preparing your property for the film rental market

If you’re considering letting this audience, preparation is key. Here’s how to get started:

  • Ensure compliance: EPC (minimum rating E), Gas Safety Certificate, and landlord insurance

  • Furnish appropriately: Think beyond the basics. Include cookware, quality bedding, vacuum, iron, TV

  • Offer flexibility: If using an AST, keep notice periods manageable

  • Set up utilities: Ideally, include utilities in the rent for simplicity

  • Get professional photos: Emphasise space, light, and features that appeal to remote workers

Unsure if your property meets Liverpool’s licensing and safety rules? Our lettings experts are here to help.

Legal and compliance considerations

Depending on how you let your property, you may need to check:

  • Licensing: Liverpool’s Selective Licensing Scheme applies in many areas. Check if you need a landlord licence

  • Mortgage conditions: Some buy-to-let mortgages restrict short-term or corporate lets

  • Insurance: Ensure your policy covers furnished or short-term rental use

  • Council tax: Still applicable even with short lets (unless covered in rent)

  • Tenancy type: Corporate lets often use company-let agreements, ASTs, or licence arrangements

Getting this right at the start will help avoid costly issues later.

The benefits of letting to professionals and film crews

Film crews, relocation professionals and other short-term tenants often bring more security and less hassle than you might think:

  • Fewer voids: Steady stream of short-term demand year-round

  • Premium rent: Higher rates possible, especially with furnishings and bills included

  • Reliable payments: Often via companies or employer-funded budgets

  • Minimal wear and tear: Professionals tend to treat properties with care

  • Positive economic impact: Supporting Liverpool’s creative economy

We’ve seen properties let within days to production crews — especially those located in flexible, well-furnished condition.

Why work with Northwood Liverpool?

Managing a short-term or corporate let requires insight, time and clear communication. At Northwood Liverpool, we:

  • Understand local film production cycles and seasonal demand

  • Offer full management and maintenance services

  • Vet tenants and handle deposits and documentation

  • Provide Guaranteed Rent options for landlords wanting peace of mind

  • Work with relocation companies and employers to place tenants fast

Whether you’re new to letting or an experienced landlord, we can help tailor your property for Liverpool’s dynamic rental scene.

Ready to earn more from your rental property? Speak to Northwood Liverpool today and find out how to market to corporate and professional tenants.

Conclusion: This is your scene, landlord

Liverpool’s film and TV boom is more than a cultural success — it’s a practical opportunity for landlords. If you own a well-located, well-maintained property, there’s never been a better time to consider offering a professional or short-term let.

Whether it’s a city-centre flat for an editor or a Georgian townhouse for cast members, your property could be the perfect base for someone helping bring Liverpool to life on screen.

With the right support, you can enjoy great yields, low voids and the satisfaction of supporting one of the city’s most exciting sectors.

Arrange a free market appraisal

Whether you’re ready to sell, a landlord looking to rent or are just interested in how much your property might be worth, the most accurate appraisal of your property is with an appointment with one of our experienced local agents.

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