Renting property in Malta is extremely simple. Foreigners coming to Malta, be it on a work appointment, to retire or to take up residency on the island, can rent a property with no restrictions.
Rental rates vary depending on location, type of property, standard of furnishings and duration of tenancy. It is often the case that properties are rented furnished including fittings & appliances, however, we do have a good selection of properties that are available unfurnished. Rates for water, electricity, internet and TV are not normally included in the rental rate if it is a long-term (normally defined as four months and over). These expenses are borne by the lessee on a consumption basis.
Malta and Gozo offer a great selection of properties to let located across the islands, suiting all budgets, tastes and lifestyle requirements. The Inner Harbour region, including St Julian’s, Sliema and Msida are most popular for those looking at working in Malta. Those who prefer to stay away from the hectic city life will find inland, western and southern Malta more appropriate and often more economical, with such areas offering a more relaxed lifestyle and a more authentic feel of the island. Gozo also offers its share of properties, particularly popular for holiday breaks and as a retirement destination.
All towns in Malta are well equipped with all necessities for day-to-day living, offering a good selection of shopping centres, department stores, health centres and clinics, entertainment hubs and so on. The islands also boast of a dynamic nightlife and ample beaches. In terms of properties, these range from standard apartments to townhouses and houses of character; from seafront developments to villas and bungalows with large gardens and pools. There are no particular expenses relating to the letting of property, except for estate agents’ fees, which normally amount to half a month’s rent, plus VAT. Alternatively, you can use NoAgentFees.com as this is completely free for tenants and landlords pay only a small fixed fee.
When viewing rental properties, it is often important to decide quickly if you see a property you like: the rental market is very buoyant and the demand is very high and if you don’t move fast, you may lose the property you choose to another potential tenant.
It is common practice to lodge a sum equivalent to one month’s rent with the lessor as a deposit against breakages and outstanding bills. The deposit is refunded to the lessee upon the termination date of the lease, or is offset against any pending bills or damages to the inventory as agreed between the parties.