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Real Estate in Malta | Digital Nomad Exchange
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St. Julian's, Malta

Real Estate in Malta

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Jan 03, 2024

Summary: An expat looking to buy a home in Malta should begin by researching the different areas of the country and deciding which one best suits their needs. They should also consider their budget and the type of property they are looking for. It is also important to research the local real estate market and find a reputable real estate agent to help with the process. Foreigners are allowed to purchase property in Malta, however there are certain restrictions in place. For example, foreigners are not allowed to purchase property in certain areas, such as the Three Cities, and they must obtain permission from the government before they can purchase a property. Houses in Malta typically include amenities such as air conditioning, a balcony or terrace, a garden, and a swimming pool. Many homes also come with modern appliances and furniture.

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How do I find a place to live in Malta?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Malta is to use online resources such as property websites, classifieds, and real estate agents. You can also search for rental properties on social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter. Additionally, you can ask friends and family who live in Malta for recommendations. Once you have identified a few potential properties, it is important to visit them in person to get a better feel for the area and to ensure that the property meets your needs," said one expat in Malta.

"St Julians/Sliema is effectively the centre of Malta in terms of bars, restaurants, beaches and everything a visitor might want or expect from Malta," remarked one member in Malta.

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SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Malta?

"Expat homes and apartments in Malta tend to be modern and well-equipped, with many featuring balconies or terraces with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. Most expat homes and apartments come with air conditioning, modern appliances, and plenty of storage space. Many also have access to communal pools, gardens, and other amenities. Expats in Malta can also find homes and apartments in a variety of sizes, from studio apartments to large family homes," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Malta.

SJB Global

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.

Learn MoreConnect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

SJB Global

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.

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Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

What is the average cost of housing in Malta?

If you are thinking about moving to Malta, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"Rent is about half the price of Dublin, and you get more bang for your buck. Properties for sale are more expensive than you might expect, although still cheaper than Ireland," remarked one member in Malta.

"The cost of housing in Malta is generally quite high, with the average price for a two-bedroom apartment in the capital city of Valletta ranging from €1,000 to €2,000 per month. Prices for larger apartments and houses can be significantly higher," explained one expat living in Malta.

Should I buy or rent a home in Malta?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Malta, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Buying a home in Malta can be a great investment, as the country has a strong economy and a growing real estate market. However, it is important to consider the cost of living in Malta, as well as the availability of rental properties, before making a decision. Renting a home in Malta can be a great option for those who are not ready to commit to a long-term purchase, as it allows for more flexibility and can be more cost-effective in the short-term. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Malta should be based on individual needs and preferences," remarked one member in Malta.

What do I need to know when buying property in Malta?

When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Malta, they said:

"1. It is important to research the area you are interested in buying property in Malta, as different areas may have different regulations and taxes. 2. It is important to understand the different types of property available in Malta, such as apartments, villas, and townhouses. 3. It is important to understand the different types of ownership available in Malta, such as freehold, leasehold, and timeshare. 4. It is important to understand the different types of taxes applicable to property in Malta, such as stamp duty, registration fees, and capital gains tax. 5. It is important to understand the different types of financing available in Malta, such as mortgages, loans, and other forms of financing. 6. It is important to understand the different types of legal documents required when buying property in Malta, such as contracts, deeds, and title documents. 7. It is important to understand the different types of services available in Malta, such as property management, legal services, and financial services. 8. It is important to understand the different types of insurance available in Malta, such as home insurance, life insurance, and liability insurance. 9. It is important to understand the different types of permits and licenses required when buying property in Malta, such as building permits and development permits. 10. It is important to understand the different types of restrictions applicable to property in Malta, such as zoning regulations and heritage regulations," explained one expat in Malta.

Are foreigners allowed to own property in Malta?

When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Malta, they said...

"Yes, foreigners are allowed to own property in Malta. Non-residents are allowed to purchase property in Malta, and there are no restrictions on the type of property that can be purchased. Foreigners are also allowed to lease property in Malta, and there are no restrictions on the length of the lease. However, foreigners are not allowed to purchase agricultural land in Malta," explained one person living in Malta.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Malta what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:

"Rental properties in Malta typically include a refrigerator, stove, oven, and washing machine. Depending on the property, other appliances such as a dishwasher, microwave, and air conditioning may also be included," explained one expat in Malta.

Additional Information about Searching for a Home in Malta:

We asked foreigners in Malta what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included...

"Expats can search for homes in Malta by looking online for real estate websites that specialize in the area, such as Malta Property, or by contacting a local real estate agent who can provide more information about the local market. Additionally, expats can search for rental properties on websites such as Airbnb or HomeAway, or by asking around in their local expat community for recommendations," said one expat in Malta.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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St. Julian's, Malta

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