Taking your first step onto the property ladder in Malta is a big milestone. From understanding what you can afford to navigating legal steps and government incentives, there’s a lot to take in at the start.
Working with the right guidance makes the process far clearer. With decades of experience across Malta and Gozo, Malta Property helps first-time buyers in Malta move forward with confidence, from the first viewing through to getting the keys in hand.
Buying your first home is a big step, so it helps to choose a market you can rely on. Malta has a clear legal process, steady demand, and a wide range of properties across different budgets.
Property in Malta has shown steady growth over time, making it a solid option for a first purchase. Buying early can help you build equity while living in your own home. Many areas also have strong resale and rental appeal.
There are several schemes designed to reduce upfront costs and support first-time buyers in Malta. These include grants, deposit assistance, and stamp duty savings. Eligibility depends on your residency and the type of property you choose.
The buying process in Malta follows clear legal steps, with a notary guiding the transaction from start to finish. This structure helps protect both buyer and seller throughout. For international buyers, there are defined routes depending on residency and property type.
Breaking down the steps of buying your first home will make it feel far more manageable:
Before you fall in love with a property, it’s important to get clear on what you can realistically afford. Start by reviewing your income, savings, and any existing commitments. Most buyers need a deposit of around 10%, along with funds for legal and notary fees. Speaking to a bank early helps you understand what you can borrow.
An Agreement in Principle confirms how much a bank is willing to lend for your mortgage (also called a Home Loan) based on your finances. It shows sellers you’re serious and ready to proceed. It also helps you narrow your property search to realistic options and can speed things up once you find the perfect property, as you’ll already have a head start with your lender.
To get an AIP, you’ll need:
Now for the exciting part – house hunting! Whether you’re looking for an apartment, a villa, or even a property for sale with a pool, having a licensed estate agent like Malta Property on your side can make all the difference.
Be upfront with your estate agent about your must-haves vs. nice-to-haves. This helps them filter through properties and only show properties for sale that really fit.
A good estate agent will:
Once you’ve found your dream home, the next step is to choose a licensed notary public. In Malta, a notary’s job is to make sure the legal side of your property purchase is above board.
It’s sensible to hire an architect to inspect the property, especially if it’s an older home or has been modified.
Your architect will:
This is an optional step, and you can do it before or after the promise of sale. In some cases, you can make the promise of sale conditional on a satisfactory report.
It’s sensible to hire an architect to inspect the property, especially if it’s an older home or has been modified.
Your architect will:
This is an optional step, and you can do it before or after the promise of sale. In some cases, you can make the promise of sale conditional on a satisfactory report.
Once the Konvenju is signed, both sides are legally committed to the sale, subject to the terms and conditions listed. Your notary will then begin a series of legal checks to make sure the property is legally sound before the transaction is completed and the final deeds are officially transferred into your name.
These checks usually include:
During this time, your notary may also negotiate certain terms or clarify issues on your behalf if something unexpected comes up during the checks. Stay in touch with your notary and respond quickly to any requests for documents or information. This helps avoid delays and keeps things moving.
At this stage, you’ll send any outstanding documents to your bank so they can issue full approval for your home loan.
Your bank will need:
Once everything checks out, your lender will prepare the final mortgage agreement, which outlines your loan terms and repayment details. This must be signed before the final deed can be completed.
The final contract (known as the deed of transfer)is signed in front of the notary, and the remaining balance is paid. Ownership is officially transferred, and you receive the keys.
Once the deed is signed, the notary will register it with the Public Registry, making the ownership transfer legally binding. The notary also ensures that the deeds are archived correctly and that any taxes or fees (e.g. stamp duty) are settled.
Finding the right property is easier when you have clear guidance from the start. Browse our latest listings or speak to our team for tailored advice on getting started as a first-time buyer in Malta.
There are several incentives in place to help reduce the upfront cost of buying your first home. These schemes can make a real difference, especially when you’re planning your budget and financing.
The First-Time Buyer Scheme is aimed at first-time buyers in Malta who secured their property through a bank loan after 1 January 2022. If you meet the criteria, you’ll receive €1,000 per year for ten years, totalling €10,000. It’s a long-term benefit that helps with the ongoing costs of owning a home and doesn’t have to be repaid.
Applications are made through the Housing Authority. You’ll need to provide evidence of your loan agreement, ID documentation, and proof of residence.
If you’re eligible for a home loan but haven’t yet saved the 10% deposit usually required when signing the promise of sale, Malta’s 10% Deposit Scheme could help you secure your first home.
Stamp duty is a government tax that you pay when buying property. It’s calculated as a percentage of the property’s value and is usually one of the biggest upfront costs buyers face, alongside your deposit and notary fees.
In Malta, the standard stamp duty rate is 5% of the purchase price. However, if you’re a first-time buyer, you benefit from a stamp duty exemption on the first €200,000 of the property’s value. That means if your new home costs €200,000 or less, you won’t pay any stamp duty at all.
If your property is worth more, you’ll only pay stamp duty on the amount above that threshold. For example, if you buy a home for €250,000, you’ll only be taxed on the remaining €50,000.
Your notary will calculate and handle the stamp duty payment as part of the purchase process, so you don’t need to do this yourself.
If you’re planning to renovate or restore your new home, you can get even more support from a VAT refund on renovation and finishing works. This tax relief makes refurbishing older homes far more affordable and encourages buyers to retain Malta’s unique architectural style.
This relief isn’t specific to first-time buyers, but it is handy to know about, as it might mean you will have the budget to purchase a project home that would otherwise be out of reach.
Once the works are completed, you can submit your application for a VAT refund through the Housing Authority with proof of costs and invoices.
Looking at houses for sale with a bit more character? This grant for first-time buyers encourages investment in Malta’s historic buildings and helps breathe new life into older areas. If you’re considering buying a home that is at least 20 years old, has been vacant for over seven years, or is in Urban Conservation Areas (UCAs), you could be in for a substantial bonus (which you don’t need to pay back).
You’ll need to apply via the Housing Authority, submitting relevant documentation like the property’s age and status and proof that it hasn’t been occupied in the last seven years (for vacant properties).
Mosta and Birkirkara are well-connected, making it easy to reach other parts of Malta. Apartments and maisonettes here are often more accessible for first-time buyers.
St Paul’s Bay is popular for its coastal setting and steady supply of newer apartment developments. It’s often more accessible in price compared to other seafront areas, while still giving you strong long-term and rental appeal.
Marsascala has a more relaxed coastal lifestyle in the south of Malta. Properties here can give you good value close to the waterfront.
When purchasing their first home, buyers need to budget beyond the property price. Costs linked to buying property in Malta include notary fees, legal checks, and bank charges, all based on the value of the property.
The property price directly impacts how much tax applies to transfers of property. first-time buyers in Malta can benefit from reduced stamp duty on part of the property value, which lowers overall costs.
Maltese buyers purchasing their first residential property may be eligible to receive a grant, depending on current schemes. The grant will go towards ongoing homeownership costs rather than the initial purchase.
If one applicant has already owned immovable property, some benefits may be reduced. This can affect grants or tax advantages linked to buying their first home. Your notary will be able to give specific advice based on your circumstances.
Eligibility for schemes can depend on if one or both applicants are Maltese or meet residency requirements. This can impact access to certain incentives and support when buying property in Malta. Your notary will be able to help with which schemes you’re eligible for.
No, most schemes and tax advantages are designed for buyers purchasing their first residential property. Second-time buyers are usually subject to standard rates based on the value of the property.
Buying your first home is easier when you have the right support from the start. At Malta Property, we guide you through each stage with clear advice, local knowledge, and a straightforward approach.
Our team understands Malta’s property market in detail, from property values and locations to the steps involved in securing your first residential property. We help you find homes that match your budget, explain how incentives apply, and keep your purchase moving without unnecessary delays.
With access to a wide range of apartments, maisonettes, and houses across Malta and Gozo, we make it easier to find a property that fits. From your first viewing through to completion, you’ll have a team focused on getting you there with confidence.
Browse our latest listings or speak to our real estate agents for clear, practical advice on buying your first home in Malta.
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