Buying

At Belair Property we aim to make your move as smooth and simple as possible. Our dedicated team of property consultants are fully trained to guide you through every step of the way. 

There are a number of procedures involved in purchasing real estate in Malta, some of which will apply to you and some others might not. For example, there are more rules that apply to foreigners purchasing property in Malta than to the Maltese. Then there are more rules still for non-EU nationals that wish to buy. We can help guide you through these rules and regulations throughout your property search. 

Our large property portfolio includes all types of apartments & penthouses, villas, character properties, lifestyle developments and commercial property. Our team works hard at keeping it continuously up to date, ensuring that our clients are always kept informed of interesting opportunities. So, be it the perfect family home or apartment or even the right office for your growing business, Belair Property is well prepared to deal with any request.  

Our dedicated teams are managed by leading individuals with many years of experience and at BELAIR Property, the directors take an active role in the day to day management of the company. We help our people fulfil their true potential.  We share success and we reward achievement. We retain the best people and we don’t strive to be the biggest, just the best. 

We look forward to being of service. 

Buying Procedures Locals

Having selected the property you would like to buy and having agreed the price and the terms and conditions, we are still here to guide and advise you throughout the process. 

The ‘Promise of Sale’ (also known as the ‘Konvenju’) is held at the Notary of your choice.  The Promise of Sale agreement is then drafted based on the terms and conditions agreed upon and signed by both parties in the presence of the Notary. 

A deposit usually equivalent to 10% of the sales price is paid upon signing of the ’Promise of Sale’ and is (in the majority of cases) held by the Notary (unless otherwise agreed) 

The Notary then conducts the necessary property searches and obtains the necessary documentation to satisfy the legal requirements of both parties. During this time, we recommend that an architect visits the property to ensure that it is in good structural condition and that all planning permits are in order. 

If you require a bank loan to proceed with the purchase, you should visit the bank and take a copy of the ‘Promise of Sale’ together with any relevant documentation for the application to be processed. It is also advisable to hold discussions regarding possible bank finance or home loans with the banks prior to the signing of the ‘Promise of Sale’. Belair Property has very strong connections with all the leading banks and our team can introduce you to all major banks when necessary. (Note: When a bank loan is being applied for, a clause in the ‘Promise of Sale’ is usually included, where the agreement is subject to bank finance being approved, usually for a limited number of weeks.) 

Once the notary’s searches, architects report and bank loan (if applicable) are all in place and approved, you as the purchaser can then appear on the final deed, where funds are exchanged, and the keys are handed over. Legal fees vary according to what is required in terms of searches, bank loans, etc. The usual rate is between 1% and 2% of the sale price but this can change depending on each and individual case.  The following link provides useful information on the expected fees due to the Notary on final deed.  https://www.notariesofmalta.org/ 

Buyer’s Expenses: 

  1. Stamp Duty to be paid by the buyer: 
  • 1% of the Purchase price paid on signing of the Promise of Sale agreement; 
  • 4% of the Purchase price payable on final deed; 

Stamp duty payments may also vary according to the terms set out below..  

If the buyer is a ‘First-time’ Buyer the total value of Stamp duty to be paid is as follows: 

  • No stamp duty on the first €150,000 of the purchase price; 
  • 5% on the remaining balance of the purchase price  

The term ‘First-time buyer applies to any individual that has never owned a property worldwide.  

If the Buyer has owned property in the past but is still purchasing for the purpose of acquiring a main residence the total Stamp duty to be paid is as follows: 

  • 3.5% of the value on the first €150,000 and  
  • 5% for any value above €150,000. 
  • If a property is purchased as a second home or as an investment / commercial property, the stamp duty is paid at the rate of 5% of the sale price. 

    Urban Conservation Areas 

    Exemptions are currently in place to serve as an incentive, in the event that, the property in question is located in an “Urban Conservation Area”, usually referred to as “Village Core”. If property is purchased in one of these localities the Stamp duty rate is reduced to 2.5% from 5% of the sale price with the same formulas applicable as in normal residential property. 

     

    NEW IMMOVABLE PROPERTY FISCAL MEASURES – JUNE 2020 ( COVID-19 INCENTIVES ) 

    The government announced temporary fiscal incentives for both property buyers and sellers, as part of a COVID-19 economic recovery package.  

    Reductions on Stamp duty on acquisition and tax on sale are applicable 

    • where a 5% stamp duty rate was previously applicable, this has now been reduced to 1.5% on the first €400,000 in value;  
    • Schemes that are currently in existence, such as First Time Buyers and Urban Conservation Areas (UCA), can be used in conjunction with this rate of stamp duty. (Legal notice 240/2020) 
    • Sales tax reduced from 8% to 5%; 

    These new measures apply to transfers of immovable property made on or after the 9th June 2020, but before 30th July 2021. These transfers will qualify for the reduced rates if the notice of the final deed of transfer is given to the Commissioner of Inland revenue by the 31st January 2022. 

    Buying Procedures Foreigners

    Property in Malta has always been a good investment and a great idea for a place to live. Malta offers a vibrant lifestyle, rich culture, excellent weather and a reputation for hospitality.

    Thanks to various initiatives taken by the authorities over the years, Malta offers various tax advantages directed at foreign businesses, professionals and retirees, making Malta a tempting destination. This in turn has contributed to an increase in demand for property rental, making Malta more attractive in terms of property investments, securing a moderate capital growth even in the worst of times.

    Buying Property in Malta

    Having selected the right property, agreed on the price and the terms and conditions of acquisition, one would then move to sign what we refer to as a Preliminary agreement. The process of purchasing a property in Malta is basically a three step procedure.

    Step 1:

    Appointing a Notary Public to act on your behalf. Our trained staff can assist in recommending an established and reputable independent Notary able to assist the purchaser in the acquisition.

    A Notary undertakes to provide a number of services, namely:
    a) Drawing up of the Promise of Sale Agreement and registration thereof;
    b) Examination of title of the Property in terms of L.N. 355/2012 (Examination of Title Regulations 2012) to verify clear legal title, confirming that there are no outstanding debts, hypotecs or liens on the property;
    c) Publication, enrollment and registration of the public deed of transfer;
    d) Anything reasonably required for attainment of the above purposes and ancillary thereto.

    Notarial fees are regulated by law and largely depend on the property and the work associated with establishing its root of title. These can be estimated using the bill calculator available here

    Step 2:

    Signing of a Preliminary agreement or Promise of Sale (otherwise known as ‘konvenju’). At this stage the buyer commits himself/herself to purchase the property in question and in turn the seller commits himself/herself to sell the property. A preliminary agreement is normally valid for a minimum three month period unless otherwise agreed between the two parties and in general a sum equivalent to 10% of the purchase price is paid by way of deposit on account of the price to secure the eventual transfer of the property. In most cases the deposit is held by the Notary on behalf of the buyer and transferred to the seller on final deed of sale once the root of title has been satisfactorily established.

    Step 3:

    Deed of Sale. Once the Notary public has established the root of title and carried out the necessary public searches to confirm that the property is free and unencumbered, the Notary is now in a position to produce the final deed of sale to be signed by both parties in his/her presence. The balance due on the property i.e. purchase price less the deposit already paid on signing of the preliminary agreement is then paid to the vendor. At this stage transfer of ownership of the property has taken place and the notary will then register the contract of sale with the public registry for future reference and proof of title.

    Permits

    Non Maltese nationals require an AIP (Acquisition of immovable property by a non-resident) permit to be issued by the local authorities prior to purchasing a property in Malta. This permit seeks to ensure that the purchaser is a person of good standing and is obtained by the notary once the preliminary agreement has been signed. This restriction does not apply to properties located in areas termed Special Designated Areas or to EU citizens when purchasing property which is to serve as their primary residence.

    Where one of the spouses is an EU citizen and the other spouse is a non-EU citizen, both can likewise benefit from the exemption outlined above and acquire property without the necessity of obtaining an AIP permit, provided the acquisition is being made to establish therein their primary residence.

    Latest update (June 2020):

    All Non-EU nationals holding LONG-TERM RESIDENT STATUS in Malta, do not require an AIP and are free to purchase one or more properties of their choice. Successful applicants can now benefit from all the Government concessions which an EU member can benefit from in relation to reductions in stamp duty as well as property tax.  

    Duties and Taxes

    When acquiring a property the purchaser is to settle stamp duty fees amounting up to a maximum of 5% of the purchase price. This fee is paid in two stages being:

    a) An initial stamp duty amounting to 1% of the purchase price is paid to the Notary on signing of the preliminary agreement. This fee will be passed on to the Inland Revenue and a subsequent receipt will be issued confirming payment.
    b) The remaining 4% of the purchase price is to be paid on the date of the final deed and handed over to the Notary for onward registration with the Inland Revenue. A full receipt will be issued by the IR Commissioner once the funds have cleared.

    It is important to note that Stamp duty is only charged on Immovable Property. In the event that the property being sold includes furniture and fittings these may be quoted separately in the final deed of sale. No Stamp Duty is payable on any movable items (furniture and fittings) being transferred together with the immovable property.

    When the property being purchased is to be used as purchaser’s ordinary place of residence, stamp duty is charged at 3.5% on the first € 150,000 of the purchase price and 5% on any amount over €150,000. However, for any other property purchase, Stamp Duty is charged at 5% on the total value of the property.

    Bank Loans

    If you require a bank loan in order to proceed with the purchase, then once the ‘Promise of Sale’ is signed you should visit the bank and take a copy of the ‘Promise of Sale’ together with any relevant documentation for the application to be processed. It is advisable to hold discussions regarding possible bank finance or home loans with the banks prior to the signing of the ‘Promise of Sale’. Belair Property has very strong connections with all the leading banks and our team can assist you with the obtaining of home loans when necessary. (Note: When a bank loan is being applied for, a clause in the ‘Promise of Sale’ is usually included, where the agreement is subject to bank finance being approved, usually for a limited number of weeks.)

    Importation of Household Goods and Furniture

    Individuals taking up residence in Malta may import their household goods and furniture into Malta free of VAT and import duties. Residents who are third country nationals may be required by the customs authorities to make a deposit or provide a bank guarantee for the amount of VAT/duty in question. This deposit is then refunded after a defined period.

    Importing a Car

    EU citizens may register a car in Malta without the payment of any tax provided that they can prove that they have transferred their residence to Malta and have owned the car for 24 months prior to it being brought into Malta. The car must be brought into Malta within 12 months of taking up residence.

    Why Malta?

    Residence in Malta

    Malta is an ideal place to take up residence and local legislation encourages foreigners to live in Malta under favorable fiscal conditions. 

     

    With the introduction of various policies, foreigners may benefit from attractive tax structures, amongst other advantages. Foreigners residing in Malta are not taxed on their worldwide income but only on Maltese sourced income and on foreign income remitted to Malta and benefit from relief from double taxation, whether through negotiated double tax agreements with a substantial number of countries worldwide, or through unilateral provisions. Certain foreign income remitted to Malta qualifies for a reduced withholding rate of foreign tax (this applies typically to dividends, interest and royalties), or is exempt from foreign tax (this applies typically to private pensions and to certain capital gains). The provisions of each particular treaty entered into by Malta, must however, be consulted to determine eligibility. Any EU/EEA or third country national who resides in Malta for more than three months requires a permit from Identity Malta, which is granted on specific grounds, some of which are listed below. 

     

    EU / EEA – An EU/EEA national may take up residence in Malta based on one of the following grounds: – 

     

    Economic Self-Sufficiency – which requires that individuals are able to provide for themselves and for their accompanying dependants by not being in need of any financial support from the Maltese government.  

     

    Employment – an EU/EEA national may seek offers of employment in Malta as an employee.  Alternatively, an individual may opt to set up his own business in Malta. 

     

    Student – residence may be granted for the duration of term required to complete one’s studies that are undertaken in Malta. 

     

    Third Country Nationals (non-EU/EEA) – The criteria for third country nationals (TCNs) obtaining the right to reside in Malta, vary from those applicable to EU/EEA nationals.  

     

    Following are a few of the possibilities: – 

     

    Employment – TCNs make seek to be employed in Malta subject to their potential employer submitting an application for an employment license for such post and actually obtaining said employment license 

     

    Self-Employment – A TCN may qualify to apply for self-employed status and work for one’s business subject to meeting certain criteria, which can include investment in capital (minimum amount applies); commitment to recruit a number of EU/EEA nationals; holding a directorship in specially approved companies/projects. 

     

    Education – Temporary residence may be granted for the entire period of education to students in any private school or university. 

    Tax Residence Programmes (EU)

    RESIDENCE PROGRAMMES AVAILABLE TO EU NATIONALS

    Malta Retirement Programme (MRP)

    Thinking of retiring? Think Malta. Considered to be one of the leading destinations for people seeking to retire overseas, Malta has a long history of attracting foreigners to its shores for more reasons than one.

    Over the years, successive Maltese Governments have worked hard to ensure that Malta becomes an ideal place to take up residence and local legislation encourages foreigners to live in Malta under favourable fiscal conditions.

    Tax is always a good incentive when choosing to move to a new country of residence but Malta offers much more. Location, location, location – a definite must for a great property investment and Malta has it all. Virtually in the centre of the Mediterranean with easy access to most European cities offered by a number of leading airlines. This coupled with a vibrant lifestyle and its Mediterranean climate gives Malta the edge when looking for an ideal place to retire.

    Over the years, these islands have earned the reputation of an attractive tax and cost-efficient Euro-zone location attracting many foreigners to take up residence, as well as global corporate entities to set up operations. Why? Because Malta doesn’t just offer attractive financial and tax incentives but has proved to be one of the few countries to have a stable political situation and economy; a highly-skilled multi-lingual workforce, low crime rates, high education levels, an established world class health care system and much more.

    The introduction of the Malta Retirement Programme allows for an attractive tax structure among other advantages. Primarily foreigners residing in Malta and benefiting from this programme are not taxed on their worldwide income but only on Maltese source income and on foreign income remitted to Malta. In addition, Malta does not have any wealth or real estate taxes.

    Although Capital gains tax on the sale of property does exist, this does not apply to the sale of one’s own residence if owned and occupied for at least 3 years. Furthermore, whether through negotiated double tax agreements with a number of countries worldwide, or through unilateral tax provisions, Malta’s tax legislation provides for relief from double taxation.

    The Malta Retirement Programme is directed towards the requirements of many EU, EEA or Swiss nationals whose main income is from pensions, retirement schemes and lifetime or temporary annuities.

    When seeking to determine which of Malta’s residence schemes is more suited for a prospective applicant’s requirements, one should always seek professional advice from a knowledgeable Authorised Registered Mandatory and an expert in the various Malta residence schemes.

    Malta Retirement Programme (MRP) key points:

    · Applications may only be submitted from an Authorised Registered Mandatory;

    · Tax shall be a flat rate of 15% on the gross income that shall be chargeable in Malta. The entire pension must be declared in Malta and the pension shall constitute at least 75% of the total income chargeable to tax in Malta;

    · There is a minimum tax of €7,500 per annum which is increased by €500 for each dependent;

    · Husband and wife must pay a minimum of €8,000 in tax per annum;

    · All individual’s resident in Malta and benefitting from the Malta Retirement Programme must not reside in any other single jurisdiction for more than 183 days in any year and must also reside in Malta for a minimum of 90 days a year averaged over any five-year period;

    In addition, a common underlying factor to these various programmes is the requisite to purchase or lease property in Malta. The Maltese property market is active and fast moving and often regarded as a safe and lucrative investment. This is where we at Belair Property play an important and vital role. Our longstanding reputation and experience in the property Sales and Letting market has enabled us to provide a personalised service to our clients.

    MRP – Property requirements are as follows:

    · Purchase of property in Malta with a value of €275,000 or above;

    Or

    · Purchase of property in the South of Malta or in Gozo with a value of €220,000 or above

    Or

    · Lease of property in Malta for a minimum of €9,600 annually;

    Or

    · Lease of Property in the South of Malta or in Gozo €8,750 annually.

    In the event of a Lease this must be taken for a period of not less than twelve months and evidenced by a certified lease agreement submitted together with the application.

    How can Belair Property facilitate your move to Malta?

    Belair Property not only assists in sourcing the right property to suit your requirements, but through our network of Authorised Professionals we can also offer assistance relating to banking, legal, tax and trust issues. We work with a number of highly reputable practitioners from tax/law firms in Malta who are able to assist you with your application, as well as, the complete process of acquiring Residence in Malta. They offer decent value for money and have proven themselves over recent years to a number of our esteemed clientele. Please contact us for further details on info@belair.com.mt

    The Residence Programme 

    The Malta Residence Programme is aimed at EU/EEA/Swiss Nationals whereby EU/EEA nationals and their families have the option to live in Malta as residents (providing they do not already have permanent residence status in Malta).   

    Through this programme the applicant and their family benefit from the following: 

    • No minimum stay requirements 
    • No minimum investment requirements 
    • 15% flat tax rate on any income that is received in Malta from foreign sources by the applicant, his spouse and his minor children or any children suffering from a disability, with the further possibility of claiming double taxation relief. Other chargeable income, including income arising in Malta from any trade, business, profession or vocation is charged at 35% tax; 
    • Granted a Maltese residence permit; 

    Beneficiaries of special tax status granted in terms of The Residence Programme will need to pay a minimum tax of fifteen thousand euro (€15,000) annually. This minimum tax covers income of the beneficiary and his / her dependants mentioned below that arises outside Malta and is received in Malta and does not include income that arises in Malta. 

    Dependants who will be able to benefit from the rate of fifteen cents on every euro are: 

    • The beneficiary’s spouse; 
    •  Minor children including minor children and children who are in the care and custody of the beneficiary or the beneficiary’s spouse; 
    • Children including adopted children and children who are in the care and custody of the beneficiary or the beneficiary’s spouse, who are not minors but who because of circumstances of illness or disability of a serious gravity, are unable to maintain themselves.  

    Requirements 

    For a person to be eligible to the Malta Residence Programme one must own or rent a property which is intended to become the individual’s principal place of residence worldwide.  

    • The property purchased must be of a value of at least €275,000 and of €220,000 when the property is in the south of Malta or in Gozo.  Or 
    • When renting a property, the values are set at €9,600 per annum for immovable property in Malta and €8,750 per annum for immovable property in Gozo or the south of Malta.  
    • It is important to note that the qualifying property may not be let or sub-let.  
    • The applicant must show that he is economically self sufficient to maintain himself and his dependant without making use of the social assistance system in Malta. 
    • The applicant must be in possession of medical insurance which covers himself and his dependants in respect of all risks across the whole of the EU normally covered for Maltese nationals. The health insurance cover must be procured by a company licensed in Malta or by an international reputable health insurance company.  
    • The applicant is to be a fit and proper person and must produce a police conduct certificate issued not earlier than six months prior to the the date of submission of the application, together with a swordeclaration taken before a Commissioner for Oaths in Malta confirming that the applicant is not subject to any ongoing civil or criminal proceedings. 

    An application for special tax status under The Residence Programme may only be submitted to the Commissioner for Revenue through the services of an authorised registered mandatory. 

    Highly Qualified Professionals

    The Highly Qualified Persons rules of 2011, allows individuals employed by and receiving income from an ‘eligible office’, to be subject to a flat rate of 15% on their employment income instead of the progressive rates of tax which are capped at 35%. The idea behind these rules is to attract expatriates working within specialised sectors to relocate to Malta and in the process continuing to increase Malta’s attractiveness as a reputable services centre of excellence. Said income must amount to at least €75,000 per annum. These rules are subject to certain conditions, detail of which can be immediately available on request.

    Tax Residence Programmes (NON-EU)

    RESIDENCE PROGRAMMES FOR NON-EU NATIONALS

    Global Residence Programme

    The Global Residence Programme addresses non-EU, non-EEA and non-Swiss nationals only. As in all other personal tax incentives that Malta offers, individuals qualifying under this programme are subject to a favourable flat rate of tax of 15% on income remitted to Malta.  Any Income that arises in Malta will be taxed at a flat rate of 35%.   The minimum yearly tax payable when an individual qualifies under the Global Residence Programme is of €15,000 and this shall cover all dependents. 

    The definition of dependents not only includes simply the wife and children with the latter being capped up to the age of 25 but also includes dependent brothers, sisters and direct relatives in an ascending line provided that the Director of Inland Revenue is satisfied that these are dependents of the beneficiary of the Programme.  Employees such as, carers/butlers and other persons that may have been in the employment of the applicant for the preceding two years have also been provided for in this Residence Programme. 

    To qualify under the Global Residence Programme applicants are required to purchase a property in Malta with a value of €275,000 or more.  Properties located in Gozo or the South of Malta have a lower threshold starting from €220,000 or more.   Alternatively, foreign nationals who are interested in renting a property, can do so and still be eligible under this programme given that the annual rental value of the property being rented is of at least €9,600 per annum (or €800 monthly) in Malta.  Similarly, this threshold is slightly lower for property in Gozo and/or the south of Malta starting from €8,750 per annum (or €730 monthly). 

    The Programme requires the use of an Authorised Registered Mandatory in Malta to submit the application on behalf of the client. This should ensure that applications are dealt with in a professional and regulated manner.  Applicants authorized under this Programme and granted the Uniform Residence Permit will be monitored to ensure that both the applicant and dependents are covered by an all-risks medical insurance policy in Malta. 

    The yearly renewal of the Uniform Residence Permit will only be given on condition that the applicant and dependents have not only satisfied the minimum conditions for the past year but will also satisfy the conditions for the forthcoming period for which the Uniform Residence Permit is given. This includes the payment of the minimum tax.  

    The immovable property declared as the applicant’s residence in Malta cannot be used by any other person other than dependents or those in his employ. The applicant may not rent out the property being declared as his/her residence in the application for whatever period and in whichever location.  In addition, the applicant may not be resident for more than 183 days in any other single jurisdiction. 

    Administration fee.   

    non-refundable Application fee of €5,500 if the property is in Gozo or the South of Malta; or €6,000 if situated in other parts of Malta, is payable when applying for the Global Residence Programme. 

    Malta Residency & Visa Programme (MRVP)

    The Malta Residence and Visa Programme Regulations, 2015 provides international investors with residency rights. These rights will apply only for non-EU / EEA / Swiss Nationals. 

    The new programme falls under the Immigration Act and is available to both the applicant and also their dependants subject to the below qualifications. 

    The qualifications and general requirements for the issuing of a certificate under these regulations are that such person: 

    1. is at least eighteen years of age; 
    1. meets the application requirements. 
    1. has a clean criminal record (as do his dependants), has passed the due diligence test and is a fit and proper person. 
    1. commits himself to provide proof of title to a qualifying property which may be either of the following: 
    1. A qualifying owned property purchased at a consideration of not less than two hundred and seventy thousand euro (€270,000) for a property situated in Gozo or in the south of Malta, or three hundred and twenty thousand euro (€320,000) for a property situated elsewhere in Malta. 

     Or 

    1. A qualifying rented property, taken on lease for a rent of not less than ten thousand euro (€10,000) per annum for a property situated in Gozo or in the south of Malta, or not less than twelve thousand euro (€12,000) per annum for a property situated elsewhere in Malta. 
    1. commits himself to a qualifying investment of an initial value of two hundred and fifty thousand euro (€250,000) which must be held for a minimum of period of 5 years from the date of certificate. 
    1. Commits himself to pay in full a contribution of thirty thousand euro (€30,000) in accordance with these regulations. 
    1. Has not had his application deemed to be against the public interest. 

    There will be a non-refundable administrative fee of five thousand five hundred euro (€5,500) on application, which will be deducted from the contribution. The applicant will need to provide an affidavit declaring that from the date of the application onwards he has either an annual income of not less than hundred thousand euro (€100,000) arising outside Malta or has capital of not less than five hundred thousand euro (€500,000). 

    The applicant has to be a third country national, not a Maltese, EEA or Swiss national. and must not be under the Residents Scheme Regulations, the High Net Worth Individuals – EU / EEA / Swiss Nationals Rules, the Malta Retirement Programme Rules, the Residence Programme Rules, the Qualifying Employment in Innovation and Creativity Rules or the Highly Qualified Persons Rules. 

    The beneficiary must hold both the qualifying property and the qualifying investment for a minimum five (5) year period following the appointed date. 

    The certificate will give the applicant and the registered dependants to reside, settle or stay indefinitely in Malta. 

    Identity Malta is entrusted with the running of the programme. Each application has to be administered by a registered accredited person or registered approved agent with Identity Malta. 

    Highly Qualified Professionals

    The Highly Qualified Persons rules of 2011, allows individuals employed by and receiving income from an ‘eligible office’, to be subject to a flat rate of 15% on their employment income instead of the progressive rates of tax which are capped at 35%. The idea behind these rules is to attract expatriates working within specialised sectors to relocate to Malta and in the process continuing to increase Malta’s attractiveness as a reputable services centre of excellence. Said income must amount to at least €75,000 per annum. These rules are subject to certain conditions, detail of which can be immediately available on request.

    Lifestyle Developments (SDAs)

    The term ‘SDA’ stands for Special Designated Area. Projects classified as SDAs generally consist of upmarket residential complexes also known as Lifestyle Developments or Gated Communities that also offer additional services and facilities such as security, leisure facilities etc.

    Purchasing a property within an SDA provides certain benefits to foreign nationals, namely:

    • the option to purchase an unlimited number of units under one name;
    • the option to rent out to third parties;
    • no requirement for an AIP permit

    SDAs in Malta:

    SDAs in Gozo:

    • Fort Chambray (Għajnsielem)

    Luxury Projects

    • 14 EAST – The Latest Tower Development (Gzira) 

    Buying to Let

    Belair Property is in a position to assist any potential buy-to-let property investors in Malta by helping them secure the right investment.

    Our Team of Property Consultants can help remove any uncertainty for prospective landlords by providing over 40 years expertise in the real estate market and assuring a 5% gross rental yield on their investment.

    We make letting in Malta a safe and easy investment and a great opportunity for those who are unsure where to invest their money, given the volatile nature and performance of worldwide financial markets.

    Benefits of Buy-to-let in Malta

    Due to the experience garnered, we can advise on opportunities on the market which are ‘Belair Approved’ Buy-to-let. This is of major benefit to both landlords and tenants. The quality of rental accommodation is improving year on year, creating greater competition in the marketplace. The choice of new development schemes available is expanding and these now have a proven track record of success in the Buy-to-Let market. And, should you own the property for a reasonable period of time, the capital growth element alone leaves most landlords confident about their decision to invest in this sector of the market.

    Bank Loans

    Belair Property enjoys very strong links with all the major local banks in Malta. We can guide you and put you in contact with the right people at the bank of your choice, and we will ensure that you will be given VIP treatment thanks to our recommendation. Appointments and meetings can be held at the proposed branch, our offices or possibly at a hotel or home according to the clients’ wish.

    The following items are usually required when applying for a bank loan (home loan):-

    • A copy of the ‘Promise of Sale’ agreement;
    • Proof of income in the form of payslips and / or income tax returns or tax certificates;
    • Bank reference (especially for foreign nationals).

    When a client’s purchase is dependent on obtaining a home loan, we strongly advise that you discuss your requirements and situation with the bank prior to the signing of the ‘Promise of Sale’ agreement, to ensure that you can satisfy the bank’s basic requirements.

    A life insurance and home policy would also eventually be required for the bank to finalise the home loan.

    APS Bank
    Banif Bank Malta
    Bank of Valletta (BOV)
    HSBC Malta

    First Time Buyers

    What should be an exciting time in your life could turn out to be quite a nightmare. Finding your dream home and being able to afford it may prove to be difficult but not impossible, and most likely with entail a bank loan. This is were our team can help you. Get in touch and one of our Consultants will walk you through the steps so that you can become the proud owner of your first home.

    Additional Services

    At Belair Property we pride ourselves in providing a “One Stop Shop” to our clients. This is a vital feature of our service model especially in the case of foreign property buyers who come to Malta and are not altogether familiar with the ‘local’ ways. We try to place ourselves in their position and imagine buying a home in a different country. Local purchasers, although more familiar with real estate in Malta can also benefit from the services provided. Our extensive knowledge and networking in the property market, provides money saving benefits which buyers, sellers, renters and landlords do not normally have access to.

    Apart from finding the property for the client, we ensure that legal representation is taken care of and bank mortgages and facilities are channelled in the right way through our contacts who have a track record with us for providing excellent service, thereby avoiding a lot of unnecessary time-wasting.

    We also provide architect services through a number of reputable architectural firms when required and answer any questions relating to usual property transactions accordingly. These services are considered standard.

    Our company provides a free service in basic interior design and will put you in touch with partner companies / individuals that provide efficient finishing or maintenance works to the property. Our vast contacts list and collaboration agreements with furniture companies will also help our clients to get excellent advice, together with quality materials at very advantageous prices.

    Our connections to education and healthcare institutions have always been an integral part of our service and we are able to offer impartial advice to benefit our clients.

    Our contacts extend to project management services provided at reasonable rates and this comes as part and parcel of the property transaction itself. This strongly applies to Buy to Let clients wishing to purchase with the peace of mind that their property is furnished and decorated according to prospective rental clients’ requirements, not simply to personal taste.

    Property management services can also be channelled through Realhouse by Belair – which is the Property Management Division within our Group. This is very popular, especially with foreign purchasers who do not reside in Malta, but can also be beneficial to local clients who do not wish to be responsible for the headaches brought about when the owner takes care of the property directly. These services include cleaning, general maintenance, rent collection, moving in clients, purchasing of soft furnishings, obtaining TV, Internet services, water and electricity billing, etc.

    The quality of the personal attention we give to our clients has over the years provided Belair Property with a very strong, positive reputation which we are extremely proud and protective of. We know that a good reputation is hard to establish and easy to lose, and that fact drives us to do our best with every client however big or small the job.

    We look forward to helping you through the buying or rental process and we have no doubt that our team can make your dream a reality. Contact us for futher details.

    UK Nationals purchasing property in Malta

    Europe and the UK, are still shrouded with the uncertainty of what will happen in case of a ‘no deal’ post Brexit scenario. A currently effective transition period is in place, which will end on the 31st December 2020, unless both parties agree to an extension. In the interim, the Malta Government has issued directives to Public Notaries in Malta on how to handle situations where a UK citizen wishes to purchase a property in Malta prior to 31st December 2020.

     

    If a UK citizen wishes to purchase a property in Malta and a Promise of Sale (POS) is signed now and the final deed is signed before 31 Dec 2020, then no Acquisition of Immovable Property permit (A.I.P) is required. If the final deed is going to be signed as of the 1 Jan 2021 onwards, then a POS must be subject to obtaining an A.I.P. permit.

     

    Need more info? Contact us here.

    Blog feature – UK National’ residence status following Brexit