The Expedite Guide to Buying a Property in Malta

by admin on August 13, 2026

Buying a property is one of the most significant financial decisions you’ll ever make. Whether you’re purchasing your first apartment, upgrading to a family home, investing in buy-to-let property, or relocating to Malta, understanding the buying process is essential.

This guide explains the complete buying process in Malta, from finding the right property to collecting the keys, while highlighting the costs, timelines, and common mistakes to avoid.

Step 1: Define Your Budget

Before starting your property search, determine how much you can comfortably afford.

Your budget should include more than just the purchase price.

You should also consider:

• stamp duty (if applicable);
• notary fees;
• architect fees (where applicable); and
• renovation expenses if buying an older property or finishing costs if buying a shell or semi-finished property (including furniture).

When a bank loan is required, the following are requested as a must before the contract is signed:

• life insurance
• home insurance.

Planning your finances early helps avoid unnecessary delays later in the buying process.

Step 2: Obtain a Home Loan Pre-Approval

If you’re financing your purchase with a bank loan, obtaining a home loan pre-approval before viewing properties is highly recommended.

The benefits include:

• understanding your borrowing capacity;
• greater confidence when making an offer;
• faster loan processing; and
• increased credibility with sellers.

Each bank has different lending criteria, so comparing available options is worthwhile.

Step 3: Find the Right Property

With your budget in place, the exciting part begins: viewing properties. Rather than rushing into a decision, take the time to visit several homes that match your criteria. Comparing different properties will give you a better understanding of the market and help you identify the one that best suits your needs and lifestyle. We also recommend arranging viewings during daylight hours, as natural light offers the most accurate view of the property’s features, condition, and overall appeal.

Consider factors such as:

• location;
• building condition;
• energy efficiency (refer to the Energy Performance Certificate);
• parking or access to public transport;
• outdoor space (if required);
• future resale value; and
• rental potential (for investors).

Don’t focus solely on today’s needs; think about how your requirements may change over the next 5 to 10 years.

Step 4: Making an Offer

Once you’ve found the right property, your estate agent will negotiate your offer with the seller.

Negotiations and discussions often include:

• purchase price;
• property sanctioning, regularisation, or permits (if applicable);
• repairs (if applicable); and
• deposit arrangements (if the seller demands other than the standard 10%).

In addition:

• If considering a ready-to-move-in property, discuss what loose furniture will be included and record these details in writing to be attached to the Promise of Sale.
• If the property is still on plan or under development, discuss the completion date and finishing schedule.

Once both parties have agreed on the terms of the sale, the buyer should appoint a notary to begin preparing the Promise of Sale (Konvenju).

While the buyer and seller may choose to use the same notary, many buyers prefer to appoint their own independent notary. This provides added peace of mind, as the notary can offer impartial legal guidance and ensure that the buyer’s interests are fully represented throughout the transaction.

If this is your first property purchase, we recommend requesting a copy of the Promise of Sale before the signing appointment. Reviewing the document in advance gives you the opportunity to discuss any clauses or legal terminology with your notary, ask questions, and ensure you fully understand your rights and obligations before signing.

What Is a Promise of Sale (Konvenju)?

The Promise of Sale, commonly known as the Konvenju, is a legally binding agreement between the buyer and seller.

It usually includes the:

• agreed purchase price;
• deposit amount;
• completion date;
• conditions of sale;
• bank loan clause (if applicable); and
• planning conditions (where applicable).

The agreement gives both parties time to complete legal searches and secure financing before the final deed is signed. We recommend allowing an appropriate amount of time for this process to avoid the need to extend the same agreement. The notary shall guide you in this respect.

What Happens During the Promise of Sale Period?

During this period:

• the notary carries out legal searches;
• the bank starts and processes the home loan;
• an architect may inspect the property (we recommend this to be done before the Promise of Sale is signed);
• any pending planning permits are applied for and completed; and
• any agreed conditions are satisfied.

This stage protects both the buyer and the seller by ensuring the property can be transferred without unexpected legal issues.

Step 5: Legal Searches

Your notary plays a vital role in the transaction.

They will verify matters such as:

• ownership;
• existing mortgages;
• ground rent (if applicable);
• court registrations; and
• the property title.

These searches help ensure that the property can be transferred safely and legally.

Step 6: Stamp Duty and Other Costs

Buying a property involves additional costs beyond the agreed purchase price.

These commonly include:

• stamp duty;
• notary fees;
• bank charges; and
• architect fees (where applicable).

Step 7: Signing the Final Deed

Once all legal requirements have been satisfied and financing is in place, the final deed is signed before a notary.

At this stage:

• the remaining purchase price is paid;
• ownership transfers to the buyer;
• keys are handed over; and
• the property officially becomes yours.

Common Mistakes Buyers Make:

1. Buying Beyond Your Budget or Ignoring Additional Costs

Many buyers focus only on the purchase price and underestimate the taxes, fees, and unexpected expenses that come with buying a property.

2. Skipping Professional Advice

The architect and notary each play an important role in protecting your interests. One should seek their advice during this process.

3. Not Asking the Right Questions

Such questions may be related to planning permits, parking, structural conditions, finishing specifications, or neighbourhood developments. An experienced estate agent can offer you guidance in this regard. 

Why Choose Expedite Malta Properties?

At Expedite Malta Properties, we provide honest advice, local market knowledge, and personalised service to guide buyers through every stage of the process. Whether you’re searching for a modern apartment, a family home, a traditional townhouse, or an investment property, we’re committed to helping you find the right property at the right price.

Our goal is simple: to make your property journey as smooth, transparent, and efficient as possible.

If you’re ready to begin your search, we’d be delighted to help you take the next step.