The Complete Guide to Buying Property in Malta
The Complete Guide to Buying Property in Malta
A Step-by-Step Guide for Homebuyers and Investors
Purchasing a property is one of the most significant investments you will ever make. Whether you are buying your first home, upgrading to a larger residence, or investing in real estate, understanding the purchasing process can help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure a smooth transaction.
At Right Properties, we believe that an informed buyer is a confident buyer. This guide outlines the key stages of purchasing a property in Malta and highlights the documents and checks every purchaser should consider before signing any agreements.
Step 1 – Find the Right Property
The journey begins by identifying a property that suits your lifestyle, budget, or investment objectives.
Whether you are looking for a family home, a rental investment, or a retirement property, our team at Right Properties can guide you through the available options and arrange viewings at your convenience. During your visit, take the opportunity to inspect not only the apartment itself but also the surrounding neighbourhood, accessibility, parking facilities, communal areas, and nearby amenities.
Step 2 – Request the Planning Documentation
Before proceeding further, it is advisable to request the property’s planning documentation.
Ask to review:
The valid Planning Authority permit.
The approved architectural plans.
Any approved amendments or minor modifications, where applicable.
The approved plans should accurately reflect the property being offered for sale. If there are discrepancies between what has been built and what has been approved, these should be clarified before proceeding.
Step 3 – Appoint a Notary
Once you have decided to purchase the property, appoint a notary of your choice.
If you do not already have one, your representative at Right Properties may recommend reputable notaries with experience in residential and commercial property transactions.
Your notary plays a crucial role in protecting your interests by carrying out legal due diligence before the purchase is completed.
Step 4 – Ensure Your Notary Receives the Correct Documents
When instructing your notary, ensure they obtain the necessary documentation from the vendor.
In particular, your notary should request:
The acquisition deed through which the current owner purchased the property.
A site plan attached to the acquisition documents.
This allows the notary to verify that the property being sold corresponds exactly to the legal title and that the boundaries and ownership are correctly reflected.
Where possible, the site plan attached to the acquisition deed should also correspond with the Planning Authority approved plans.
Step 5 – Signing the Promise of Sale (Konvenju)
Once the preliminary investigations have been completed, the parties will usually enter into a Promise of Sale Agreement (Konvenju).
Before signing, make sure that all agreed conditions are clearly incorporated into the agreement.
The promise of sale should accurately specify:
The exact property being purchased.
The agreed purchase price.
The payment schedule.
Any included garages, storage rooms, roof rights, or common parts.
The agreed finishing specifications (where applicable).
Deadlines for completion.
Conditions that must be satisfied before the final deed.
Never assume that verbal agreements are binding. Anything agreed between the purchaser and vendor should be reflected in writing.
Step 6 – Review the Supporting Documentation
Before committing to the purchase, ensure that the following documents are available:
A valid Planning Authority permit.
Planning Authority approved floor plans bearing the official Planning Authority stamp.
A Planning Authority approved front elevation bearing the official stamp.
A valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), issued within the applicable validity period.
The relevant condominium documentation where the property forms part of a condominium.
Any other documentation relevant to the particular development.
Having these documents available provides greater certainty and assists both your architect and notary in verifying that everything is in order.
Step 7 – Final Due Diligence
Your notary will continue carrying out legal searches throughout the promise of sale period.
These searches typically verify:
Legal ownership.
Existing mortgages or privileges.
Any registered burdens affecting the property.
Title defects.
Easements and servitudes.
Any restrictions on the property.
Only once the notary is satisfied that the title is clear should the final deed be scheduled.
Step 8 – Signing the Final Deed
The final deed is signed before the notary once all conditions contained in the promise of sale have been fulfilled.
At this stage:
The balance of the purchase price is paid.
Ownership is legally transferred.
Keys are handed over (unless otherwise agreed).
The purchaser officially becomes the new owner.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many property transactions proceed smoothly, but purchasers should remain vigilant.
Some common mistakes include:
Purchasing without verifying planning permits.
Failing to compare approved plans with the property on site.
Not engaging an independent notary.
Relying solely on verbal promises.
Failing to review condominium obligations.
Ignoring additional costs such as stamp duty, notarial fees, bank charges, and finishing costs.
Proceeding before obtaining all necessary documentation.
Why Choose Right Properties?
Buying property should be an exciting experience, not a stressful one.
At Right Properties, we guide purchasers through every stage of the process—from the initial viewing to the final deed—while working closely with architects, notaries, banks, and professionals to help ensure your purchase is as straightforward as possible.
Whether you are searching for your dream home or your next investment opportunity, our experienced team is committed to helping you make informed decisions with confidence.
Looking to purchase a property in Malta? Contact Right Properties today to arrange a viewing and let us help you find the perfect home or investment.