The property buying process in Malta, step by step

A Maltese property purchase has two legal stages. First, buyer and seller sign a promise of sale — the konvenju — which binds both sides on agreed terms. Then, once checks are complete, they sign the final deed of sale before a notary, and ownership passes. In between, the notary, your architect and, where needed, your bank and the tax authorities do their work.

Step 1 — Find the right property

Set your brief — area, type, budget, whether you need an AIP-eligible or SDA property — and view in person or by video. Ask the agent early for any known issues: permits, common parts, planned works nearby.

Step 2 — Agree price and conditions

The offer is more than a number. Agree in writing:

• the price and what is included (furniture, parking, storage);
• the deadline for the final deed;
• conditions — for example “subject to a bank loan”, “subject to an AIP permit” or “subject to a satisfactory survey”;
• who pays for what, such as any outstanding works or condominium charges.

Step 3 — Sign the promise of sale (konvenju)

The konvenju is signed by both parties, usually at the notary’s office.

• A deposit of around 10% of the price is customary; it is normally held by the notary or the agent until the deed.
• The buyer pays 1% provisional stamp duty when the notary registers the agreement with the tax authorities.
• The agreement fixes a validity period — commonly around three months — within which the deed must be signed.

Step 4 — Due diligence

During the promise period:

• The notary researches the title, confirms the seller’s right to sell, and checks for hypothecs, privileges and other burdens registered against the property.
• Your architect checks that the building matches its planning permits and assesses its condition.
• Your bank values the property and issues its formal loan offer, if you are borrowing.
• The tax authorities process any AIP permit application, with a service target of around 35 days.

Our due diligence checklist lists every check.

Step 5 — The final deed of sale

On completion day, buyer and seller (or their attorneys) sign the deed of sale before the notary. The buyer pays the balance of the price and of the stamp duty; the seller’s property transfer tax is withheld; any mortgage on the property is cleared. The notary then registers the deed and you receive the keys.

Step 6 — After completion

• Utilities: transfer electricity and water accounts with ARMS — see utilities in Malta.
• Insurance: buildings and contents cover, especially for apartments with shared structures.
• Condominium: register with the administrator of the building’s common parts.
• Residence permit: if the purchase supports an MPRP or GRP application, send the deed to your licensed agent.

Timeline at a glance