More and more people are doing it – holidaying in a home from home scenario, preferring to rent out a villa in Malta or an apartment  rather than living it up in a hotel. It is just one other way of experiencing the life as the locals live it and while you are at it you may even cut down on expenses at the same time.  Holiday Malta Villa rentals are on the increase at least on this side of the hemisphere and whilst each country has its own rental quirks and methods here is how it works in Malta and Gozo:

– The property should be clean, neat and tidy and most Maltese and Gozitan owners are pretty house proud and will present their property at its best. Usually cleaning services or linen change services are not offered during your stay if this is seven days or less. If you prefer daily cleaning services or at least more often than once a week, then you need to request this specifically and it will probably be at an extra cost.

– Most self-catering holiday villas in Malta homes come equipped with a washing machine. If you are not interested in using that and would rather have a daily laundering service, you will have to request it apart.

– You should confirm beforehand whether you need to take your own towels and linen. Some landlords will not supply these, whilst they will supply quilts and blankets.

– If you are travelling with young children and need extra beds or cots, be clear as to what you need. Some landlords will advertise an extra bed without specifying whether it is suitable for an older or a younger child.

– If you are renting out a self-catering apartment/Malta villa, then you should find basic kitchen utensils : cutlery, plates, pots and pans. Some landlords will leave basics such as sugar, milk, biscuits, water, tea and coffee….. clarify what you will be getting especially if you plan to arrive late at night with no chance of taking off to a restaurant.

– If it’s winter clarify whether hot water will be readily available. Whilst this is the norm, there may be instances where hot water geysers are not switched on in time to allow an unwinding wash after your voyage.

– Also make sure heating is installed. Maltese winters can be pretty cold and humid. This will come to a surprise to people arriving from much colder countries where central heating takes the chills out of indoor living. Since central heating is not the norm in Malta, you will find air-conditioning and gas or electric heaters.her hot water will be readily available. Whilst this is the norm, there may be instances where hot water geysers are not switched on in time to allow an unwinding wash after your voyage.

– For spring/summer/early autumn, fans or air-conditioning are a must. Don’t settle for one fan for the entire apartment if more than two bedrooms are used. Each bedroom will need freshening up.

– Smoking in public areas and establishments is illegal in Malta and Gozo. If you are a smoker, it is wise to make sure smokers are welcome in the property you are renting out.

– If you or somebody you are travelling with has a disability or health condition which requires special facilities, ask the Malta Villa owner whether these can be accommodated.

– Maltese and Gozitans are well-known for their friendly and forthcoming attitude towards strangers. Feel free to ask advice, travel instructions, recommendations on good restaurants, shopping areas, beaches, museums, etc.

There are a number of options available that should cater for any budget.  Ask a real estate agent in Malta for some professional advice.  In most cases, they should have a short let specialist available that would be on call to assist you.

Written by: Marika Azzopardi
Marika Azzopardi is a freelance writer and journalist. A frequent contributor to national English language papers and magazines, she writes about a bevy of topics including art, people and life in general.  She is also the author of children’s books and short stories, delving into adult fiction from time to time.

The post Renting a villa in Malta – what to expect / request of a landlord appeared first on RE/MAX Malta: Real Estate Blog.

Here in the Mediterranean, it usually can’t get any sunnier than sunny Malta. With an average sunshine lasting five to six hours a day in winter and more than 12 hours a day in summer, the island boasts highly enviable seasons which are ideal for those who hanker after the sun’s warming rays of light after spending most of their year in gruelling winter weather.

Spending some quality summer time in a Holiday Apartment in Malta  allows you to unwind, de-stress and enjoy typical Mediterranean living.  But to do so first-hand means you need to find the option to rent a holiday in Malta that suits you perfectly. Let’s start seeing what can be found available on the local property letting scene…

•  Self-catering apartments can be found practically all over the island. The higher priced apartments are usually the ones located at the water’s edge around the coastline, deep in the rural regions, or enjoying a grand view somewhere historic. For amazing old properties converted into just as amazing apartments, check out historic locations like Mdina, the Three Cities and Valletta. Something newer can be viewed along the Sliema and St Julian’s seafront or in one of the lifestyle developments in Malta.  The latest trend of tourists coming to Malta renting holiday apartment in Sliema and St. Julian’s with communal pool facility as opposed to renting a villa with pool. Less costly Holiday apartments in Malta varieties come without a view and further inland. However, once one has a rented car available or can relax and take the buses around the island, an apartment without a view needn’t be a problem. You can always drive or be driven to the views.
• Up one notch are designer penthouses, which come very often equipped with open-air terraces where you can lap up the sunshine. Penthouses are generally very stylish affairs and there are usually one to four bedroom varieties on the market. Those with a pool and a roof garden are the most prized of all.
• Really typical tradition can be experienced in a rented farmhouse. Most farmhouses for rent in Malta  are centuries-old buildings which have been expertly and carefully renovated to keep blending in with their rustic country ambience. Yet once inside, you may find yourself plunged into something pretty amazing, a cross between Italian/Spanish/French country life, yet with commodities such as jacuzzi baths, swimming pools, WI-Fi comfort and designer furnishings.
• Somewhere in between come the town houses. Immersed in the old town and village hubs, probably close to the square, these town houses can be any size – from a one bedroomed ground-floor condo to a large four-bedroomed set-up that is akin to a palazzino rather than a house. The bigger you go, the grander it becomes.

Whatever options suit your taste and budget, check with your local real estate agency in Malta and read previous visitors’ reviews to see what the owners are like. Ask questions and check with your real estate agent in Malta for their own advice and recommendations. Ultimately, whatever your choice will be, remember that wherever you stay, Malta is all there waiting to be discovered.

This article was written by Marika Azzopardi, a freelance writer and journalist. A frequent contributor to national English language papers and magazines, she writes about a bevy of topics including art, people and life in general. She is also the author of children’s books and short stories, delving into adult fiction from time to time.

The post Preparing to spend summer in the sun – renting options in Malta appeared first on RE/MAX Malta: Real Estate Blog.

So you’ve heard of Malta and you wonder if you could visit with your boat/yacht/superyacht and berth around the island for a while? A key spot in the Mediterranean, Malta has become a highly sought yachting location and has been hailed as a superb berthing place, especially for those who want to winter their boats some place safe but not only.  In this article we will avail you to the advantages of berthing in Malta and explain how easy it is to find suitable holiday rentals in Malta or temporary accommodation for medium term stays for your crew.

A number of marinas are situated within the island’s natural inlets which are sheltered in neat creeks that afford protection from harsh weather conditions. All marinas are serviced with the provision of key required services including supplies, fuel bunkering, free marina-wide wireless broadband, car parking facilities, shipyard services, towage, pilots, and other. Moreover, all the marinas around Malta as well as the located in Gozo, are situated in locations which are key sites that provide fantastic eateries, sights, local interest points as well as historic buildings and intriguing cultural backgrounds.

Re-locating your boat to Malta provides you a choice of marinas to pick from. Consider the Portomaso Hilton berth, the Vittoriosa Marina (within the old Three Cities), the Msida Marina, the Manoel Island Marina, the Kalkara Marina, the Ta’Xbiex Marina,the Grand Harbour Marina, and the Mgarr Harbour on Gozo.   Ongoing works on the Cospicua Waterfront will eventually see the inclusion of yet another busy marina in the Three Cities area.

Marinas generally operate on the basis of annual rental agreements. Occasionally the opportunity to actually purchase the berth itself does come up on the market, so it is best to keep tabs on this option if it is tantalising enough. Sometimes, previous owners may decide to sell boat and berth in conjunction, and this may prove to be a great opportunity to secure space in any of these marinas. Since the islands are so small and since they are so very popular with yachting enthusiasts, free available spaces get snatched up pretty quickly.

For superyacht owners, the Grand Harbour Marina is a superb Mediterranean destination. This is proven by the presence of several high-profile superyachts that visit the marina on a regular basis, even several times a year. The Grand Harbour Marina is situated within a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is the Grand Harbour itself. This harbour is one of the biggest naturally formed harbours with deep waters to booth. Apart from top notch facilities, the marina is close to the Palumbo superyacht shipyards which can service, refit and repair some of the biggest superyachts around.

As mentioned above it is also possible to find suitable holiday rentals in Malta or even long term accommodation in Malta.  Renting a property in Malta is quite affordable and the selection of property types and standards are vast. Crew members may rent a standard apartment in Malta, whereas for higher ranked officers you may rent a luxury apartment in the Portomaso Marina or a different lifestyle development.  If you would prefer a Seafront apartment then there are great option located in Sliema and St. Julian’s.  Every Marina in Malta including the Shipyards are centrally located. The maximum driving time would be a 10 min drive in the morning to the Shipyards.

Apart from these yachting facilities, the islands themselves allow plenty of favourable conditions for people who berth on the islands. Most of these travellers are enthralled by the safety of walking the streets and the neighbourhoods even during late evenings. The proximity of shops is also another benefit as is the smallness of the island which allows for any number of different activities to be carried out during any given day – feats un-thought of in countries which are hampered by their own hefty size.

More excitingly for people who love the sea, is the fact that the marinas are all situated along key seashore locations that provide a strong inkling to the islands’ maritime traditions. A case in point is the Vittoriosa Marina whose waterfront includes the building which houses the Malta Maritime Museum, and which waterfront was the site of key scenes in the 1998 movie ‘The Count of Monte Cristo starring French actor Gerard Depardieu.

Whichever marina tantalises your fancy, you may eventually be tempted to abandon your sails and re-locate permanently to the Malta, choosing to set up base and purchasing Malta real estate that allows you to keep your feet firmly planted in Maltese island living.  Why not pick a seafront property to watch over your berth while you’re at it and enjoy the best of both worlds, all year long…..?

This article was written by Marika Azzopardi, a freelance writer and journalist. A frequent contributor to national English language papers and magazines, she writes about a bevy of topics including art, people and life in general. She is also the author of children’s books and short stories, delving into adult fiction from time to time.

The post Why Berth on Malta? All about the Marinas in Malta appeared first on RE/MAX Malta: Real Estate Blog.

Buying a second home is a financial and personal achievement, but there are things you should keep in mind before finalising that purchase.

Investing in Malta real estate or investing anywhere for that matter, is often described as ‘the biggest investment you’ll ever make’, but it’s not the first time people opt to buy a second one.  And, often, it turns out to be a very worthwhile investment, but there are some things you must keep in mind when going down this road.

Be clear about your finances. Buying a second home is no mean feat, particularly if you still haven’t paid off your first one.  Sit down and make a list of your monthly expenditure; consider whether you would like to have (more) children – as that will add to how much cash-in-hand you’ll need; think of how old you’ll be when you finish paying off both houses – do you really want to keep on working until you’re 85? With all this in mind, can you really afford another mortgage? If you’ve done the sums and it all adds up, then go for it.

Do you want a summer house? If you want a holiday home then consider where you’d like to spend your time when you’re on holiday – do you want to stay put in Malta, have a home in Gozo (or vice versa) or go abroad? If it’s the latter then don’t forget to check the law and tax payments on houses in your chosen destination. You could also consider renting it out for the remainder of the year.

In fact, if you are thinking of a rental investment your best bet is to buy a  property in St Julians or Sliema, Bugibba or maybe even Attard, amongst some others that are very popular rental destinations.  Find out what the rental yield is and check prices first! Apparently, you’ll get a much better rental income from a one or two bedroom apartment but can you afford a property in these locations?  If not in these areas, how sure are you that the property you’re buying will rent out?  How many months can you afford to go without having a tenant? Think about the worst-case scenario and work your way back from that. Anything better is profit! Consult with a Malta real estate agent to guide you better and choose an experience estate agent.  Don’t just choose him/her because their your friend. Make sure they know their business.

Keep the taxman in mind. During the last budget in Malta, the law was changed so that tax on a first property is now calculated at 3.5% on the first €150,000 and 5% on anything above that.  Second and third properties are then calculated at 5% on the whole amount, meaning that you’ll be paying more tax on your second home. Can you afford it?

Being objective as to why you want a second property is fundamental to making the most of it; so is being true to yourself as to whether you can afford it or not. If you really can and genuinely want one, then go on and go forth! Done correctly, a second property can be a brilliant investment and great fun as a home-away-from home, so it’s well-worth considering.

The post What To Keep In Mind When Buying A Second Home appeared first on RE/MAX Malta: Real Estate Blog.

Holiday rentals in Malta have increased substantially over the past years and people who invest in a second property in Malta as a buy-to-let are also continuously on the rise. Preparing the property for a holiday rental in Malta may sound like a simple process but there are actually so many nitty-gritty details to keep in mind that many property owners fall foul at the initial stages of their novel experience. This generates bad reviews which set them back immediately and bad reviews are hard to erase. In this short blog post I will try to point out key things to look out for and to keep in mind when you are renting out property as a holiday rental.

• Holiday rentals tend to be short term rentals with people coming into your property to stay for the duration of their vacation. Since they are on vacation they usually are not in the mood to do any chores around your property, however they want cleanliness with a capital C. Therefore it is best to simplify things as much as possible. Unless you plan to provide daily cleaning help which is generally frowned upon as it is considered disturbing to the renters, stick to simple décor that can be easily managed. Forget the heavy shades, the rich upholstery and the deep carpets if you cannot afford regular cleaner or regular laundering bills. Clear furniture surfaces of excessive accessories, and remember – to work well, it’s all about adding a homely feel to the hotel room. Don’t overdo the ‘homely’.

• Always leave clean sheets, pillow cases, bed covers and blankets. There is nothing more put-offish than dirty linen in a rental. Decide if you will be including also towels for your guests. Some rentals do not come equipped with towels for the guests, in which case you have to warn guests to bring their own. If you do leave towels and they are fine towels, specify to your guests that they are not to use them for the beach or pool. Alternatively, leave beach towels available as well. It may mean more laundering, but at least your fine towels are safe. Having said that, make sure you have spares of linens available both for the guests (accidents do happen) and for yourself (as back to back bookings may occur).

• Protect mattresses with mattress covers that can be washed with every guest changeover.

• Do leave some basic food items in the larder so that your guests can find them on arrival. Simple things like a loaf of bread, some biscuits, milk, pasta, a bottle of mineral water, sugar, tea and coffee. These basics are especially appreciated when guests arrive late in the day or after a long trip so that they have neither the time nor the mood and energy to seek out shops and do any shopping. Some companies offer this at an extra cost but we suggest that you offer it FREE. This will definitely start you on the right foot with your renters.

• Always allow at least one day in between the departure of a guest and the arrival of a new one. This time will allow you to inspect the condition of the apartment after the last guest leaves, as well as give you or the cleaners plenty of time for a thorough clean-out. Some guests, especially those who arrive with children, tend to leave some level of upheavel around a property – sand on the floor, finger-marks on furniture, toothpaste smears in the bathroom etc

• Always charge a security deposit upon confirmation of booking. This will serve to cover any expenses that may arise from damages caused. You can reverse this deposit into their account within a few days of their departure after you have checked that all is intact.

• Enjoy the experience of hosting people in your rental, but keep in mind that this is a business, and as such, it must be treated with attention, diplomacy, money-sense and professionalism. Leave your contact number available and be ready to answer the phone at all hours as emergencies, as lost keys or burst pipes do happen. But don’t badger guests during their stay by inviting them to events or trying to sell them products. All you have to concern yourself with is their time of arrival, and their time of departure and the rest will take care of itself.

The holiday rental business has become a do-it-yourself business where owners are quickly understanding that by advertising their holiday rental in Malta with portals can definitely achieve them good revenue. Having said that if you are not the handy person and do not have the time to manage your holiday rental business it is recommended to contract a property manager who can take care of these tasks. They take care of arrivals, departures as well as any maintenance that may be required during or between rentals.
This article was written by Marika Azzopardi, a freelance writer and journalist. A frequent contributor to national English language papers and magazines, she writes about a bevy of topics including art, people and life in general. She is also the author of children’s books and short stories, delving into adult fiction from time to time.

The post Preparing Your Property For Holiday Rentals – The Do’s and Don’ts appeared first on RE/MAX Malta: Real Estate Blog.

Following the release of the Government’s Budget, which was presented to Parliament by Finance Minister Hon. Edward Scicluna on Monday, 4^th November 2013, RE/MAX Malta would like to provide you with the highlights that may, directly or indirectly, affect the Malta real estate market.

The most notable of the measures mentioned by Hon. Edward Scicluna was that in relation to First Time Buyers. Originally, those purchasing an immovable property with the intention of using it as their primary residence had to pay stamp duty as follows:

• 3.5% on the first €150,000; and
• 5% on the remaining balance

The good news for First Time Buyer is that, following the Budget Speech for 2014, there is no longer any stamp duty to be paid on the first €150,000. This allows for a maximum saving of €5,250. This measure is only applicable on any contract (not Promise of Sale) to be signed throughout 2014.

At the same time, tax authorities will be accepting evaluations prepared by private architects rather than sending government appointed architects. As always, measures will be in place to prevent abuse in this respect.

For those who have invested in property with the purpose of renting it out, the government is offering landlords the option of paying 15% on gross rental income. This has been done in an effort to regularise the rental market. The government has made it clear that there will be zero tolerance towards tax evasion and, in an effort to curb abuse, will be taxing any undeclared rental income at 35%, plus penalties and fines.

Any home owner will be happy to hear that their water and electricity bills will be decreasing. The price of electricity is to be reduced by an average of 25%, whereas the price of water is to be reduced by an average of 5%. These changes will be implemented as from March 2014.

Other changes also include:

• Anyone earning an income between €19,501 and €60,000 will now be taxed at 29% (starting from January 2014) instead of the current 32%;
• The Cost of Living Adjustment will be €3.49 per week;
• The price of Portland cement (excluding white cement) has increased from €17 per 1000kg to €27 per 1000kg;
• The removal of duty payable on bona fida transmissions causa mortis where the transferee is a person with a disability.

If you’re looking to buy, sell or rent property in Malta, be sure to speak to a reputable real estate agent in Malta. Our team is the largest real estate team in Malta, comprising of no less than 120 sales associates and 25 letting agents. We ensure that our team are kept updated with any developments in the real estate market – such as this.

The post Budget 2014 – The Effects on Real Estate appeared first on RE/MAX Malta: Real Estate Blog.

When you’re planning to transform the interior of your home, commercial outlet or any real estate in Malta into something stunning, beautiful and pleasant to live with – you may not always have the skills to do so yourself. You get confused when it comes to colour schemes. You get confused when it comes to style. You don’t know who sells what and what you actually would need to buy to make it all come together. Chances are you start considering requesting the services of an interior designer. After all, isn’t that what so many others do? But how should you go about it?

Choosing an interior designer to work on your property is not an easy task, and a challenge in itself. A great deal depends on finding the right person to work with because ultimately this person is somebody you are going to trust with your investment. And more often than not, this may be the investment of a lifetime.

Here are some tried and tested hints to help you –

– Scour the Yellow Pages for contact names and numbers but don’t be conned by ads. Some of the more reputable interior designers do not necessarily advertise.

– Ask people you know who live or work in beautiful spaces for recommendations. Good recommendations are the word-of-mouth variants that work a million times better than ads. Don’t be satisfied with just that though. If a friend recommends a professional because he/she has done up their Malta real estate, ask to visit the premises to see how it turned out. Ask about the experience itself to get an insight into the entire process.

– Once you make an appointment for a preliminary meeting, don’t start by asking an interior designer to view your property. Rather, start by asking to see portfolios which showcase finished projects. You can then gauge if this designer produces work that is close to what you are dreaming of. Some will guide you to their website or Facebook pages which are fine, but a personal meeting is always better so you get a feel of the person and the team you will possibly be dealing with.

– Beware the designer who uses one formula for all his clients. This means he/she will not really create a space around you, to fit you and your lifestyle. More likely, he/she will require his clients to accept what is dished out, regardless.

– Only after you have seen what an interior designer can produce should you invite him/her to visit your premises. But before that visit happens, arm yourself with material to show him/her. Sometimes words can be misunderstood or misinterpreted. Therefore pick through magazines, books and websites for ideas. Print out images you like. Create a little scrapbook with all the images that identify key concepts and colours schemes which fascinate you. The more input you give, the better the outcome. Even a scrap of fabric can be indicative of style and decor preferences, and reveal much more of your preferences than you can imagine.

– During the on-site meeting is when you can explain what you are envisaging, what you need, what you plan to do with your space. All such information will help the designer figure out which direction needs to be taken. And the more information you can dish out, the better.

– Be clear about your budget. Don’t be afraid to ascertain that the designer can work within its limits because unless you do so, you will be in for some unpleasant financial surprises.

– Be ready to engage with the designer in lengthy discussions which are healthy ways of explaining yourself and hearing how he/she can work around your ideas.

– Be humble enough to accept professional advice when it is meted out. Don’t underestimate the advice of an interior designer who is well versed in the profession. This person will have the necessary experience to foresee difficulties, outcomes and results, and you should depend on this expertise with trust.

– Ultimately, enjoy the experience and learn from it. Trust is important but so is input, feedback and communication. Be courteous yet firm about what you want and expect. Good interior designers will become good friends and reliable allies in your project. Hopefully, the one you choose will be working with/for you in many future projects too, especially if you plan to invest in real estate in Malta or perhaps buy-to-let properties.

This article was written by Marika Azzopardi, a freelance writer and journalist. A frequent contributor to national English language papers and magazines, she writes about a bevy of topics including art, people and life in general. She is also the author of children’s books and short stories, delving into adult fiction from time to time.

The post How to Choose an Interior Designer appeared first on RE/MAX Malta: Real Estate Blog.

One of the aspects of the current scenario of real estate in Malta is the availability of surplus properties that can be purchased as a rental investment. There are many good reasons for buying a rental property at the moment. With the recession that has brought on a reduction in the general purchase of properties, there has been a subsequent resultant lowering of prices that make purchases even more palatable. In fact, in this buyers’ market scenario, there has never been a better time for people to actually invest in a second or even third property.

When you decide it is high time you put your money in a rental property you probably wonder where you can best invest. Being such a tiny island one might believe that there are not many options available but, in fact, good rental opportunities can be found all over the island. So which part of Malta is suitable for your investment and what do you look out for? Let’s start considering what makes sense within varied options:

• Choose to purchase real estate in Malta in an area which attracts expatriates on the job looking for a long term rental. Think of Sliema, St Julian’s, Bugibba or Qawra. Birzebbugia or Marsascala are also typical options on the other side of the island. It is good to know that purchasing a one or two bedroom apartment will provide you a better return on investment. It is proven that your rental return can reach between 1% and 2 % more than the average of what you will get when purchasing a three bedroom apartment. The reason being is that there are many young single expatriates that are being employed with iGaming companies and other industries such as the Finance, Information Technology and Shipping who are only interested in modern one or two bedroom apartments.  On another note, a three bedroom apartment is ideal when you are looking for a family-type clientele.
• Do something on short term holidays… clients have become more inclined to choose apartments or villas for their holiday instead of hotels for various reasons. For some, they are guaranteed complete privacy and independence. Others would need to find accommodation for a relatively short period of time, but have come to realize that staying in a hotel for, say, 6 weeks, may prove to be quite costly. Lastly, it is more cost effective to accommodate a small group (for example, a small family of 4 – 6 people) into one apartment / villa than it would be for a hotel to source one room to accommodate them all (at a decent price).
• Choose to buy Malta real estate in an area which attracts university students. Students, whether they come from our sister island Gozo, or whether they come from other parts of Europe and the world, will have a budget set aside to rent out property to live in for a long or short term period. Malta enjoys a steady influx of students at varied levels and so you will want to see which category of student you want to target. Finding a property which can be rented to more than one student will give you the option of having one or two or perhaps three students living temporarily under your rental roof. Alternatively you can opt to purchase a one-bedroom apartment to rent out to just one student on a long term basis. It all depends on how much time and energy you can dedicate to the rental arrangements which you must keep under control. For this specific category, choose parts of Malta where students congregate, namely the area around the University of Malta, the area around the Institute of Tourism Studies, or a central location such as Valletta or Floriana from where a student would be able to get a direct bus to any destination.
• If you opt for the cultural segment of tourism then you will want to concentrate on finding a property which is situated in Valletta or Mdina or a central location such as Attard or Mosta. Alternatively choose a location in The Three Cities, all of which are picking up in popularity with tourists who are seeking to have a vacation immersed in history. This kind of tourist will look out for a more unique and classy place to stay.
• If you want to attract local renters who are seeking long-term accommodation, you can just about settle for any location as long as it is close to shops, to transport options, to a town/village core and with available parking space. If the location is pretty busy, try to offer the rental with a garage space incorporated. There are a number of Maltese families that may be renovating their home and require temporary accommodation for a minimum one year/

Whichever location you ultimately decide to concentrate on, remember that you must cater for all necessary commodities regardless of whether you want to offer a low/mid/ high range rental. So what’s your next step? Call a reputable Malta real estate agent and start touring those rental options… today!

This article was written by Marika Azzopardi, a freelance writer and journalist. A frequent contributor to national English language papers and magazines, she writes about a bevy of topics including art, people and life in general. She is also the author of children’s books and short stories, delving into adult fiction from time to time.

The post Buying a Rental in Malta – What to Look Out For appeared first on RE/MAX Malta: Real Estate Blog.

It is easy to assume that once you have a rental property in Malta you can just sit back, wait for tenants and then let the cash flow in. In reality, things are not that simple. In this short blog post I will try to indicate how you can keep control of your rental property to avoid problems along the way.

– If your rental is still unoccupied, you have to make sure that as a empty property it is still in good shape. Therefore you should visit every week, open up the windows to let the fresh air in, check the water and electricity systems, and operate some of the appliances to keep them in good running order. Check if any maintenance needs to be made, if there are any leakages, if there are any postal items to be retrieved, and if the property needs cleaning. If you have a garden, then make sure it is not allowed to overgrow. This regular checkup will help you in the long term so that if you land a tenant unexpectedly, the property will not be found unsuitable for immediate occupation. Don’t be caught out unawares. If you cannot keep control of your property single-handed, then get somebody to do it for you. A property manager can take over several roles, including maintenance , upkeep and security.

– If you are in the process of seeking tenants, screen possible tenants personally if you can. You will know if you want to rent out to young people or older people, locals or foreigners, on short or long term basis. The important thing is to meet interested would-be tenants and gauge for yourself whether they seem reliable, whether they can afford to pay the rent, whether they have any difficulty with respecting your criteria.  For instance – you may decide to forbid your tenants from keeping large dogs in the house. If would-be tenants come to visit with a Labrador, you know they are not suitable to stay in your property.

– If you cannot manage the choice of tenants yourself, then get an agency to do this for you. A real estate agency in Malta will advertise your property, bring people to view and screen would-be tenants to see if they fit in with your criteria.

– If your rental is occupied, then your rental contract should have included a clause which stipulates that you have the right to visit the premises and check things fairly regularly as long as you advise your tenant accordingly ahead of your visit. Do allow your tenant enough time to organise him/herself. Be considerate to the fact that people might be ill or super busy or working longer hours than usual, and thus unlikely to welcome you at immediate notice. Make full use of this stipulation in your contract, so that you keep tabs on the way your real estate in Malta is being maintained and managed by your tenant. So for instance, if the property is an apartment, and the common parts are filthy, you can remind your tenant that he/she had agreed to share the tasks of cleaning with the occupants of the other apartments. If, for instance, you had stipulated that no washing be hung out on the balconies overlooking the facade, then you can make sure this is respected and remind your tenants of the alternatives.  If there are things around your property which displease you, diplomatically and tactfully let your tenant know. Make sure your property is being respected and that damage is not happening through lack of attention on the part of the tenant.

– Do invite your tenants to notify you of any faults or difficulties that materialise from time to time. When such notifications occur, do not ignore them and make sure you visit the property to check out the problem. Sometimes appliances break down, postal items arrive unexpectedly, keys get lost, petty issues with neighbours crop up. You are the owner of the property, so make sure you take care of each occurence as it materialises. If tenants feel you do not care about your own property, they are unlikely to respect or care for it themselves.

– Building a good relationship with your tenants is key to a pleasant rental experience and positive feedback for repeat bookings time and again.

This article was written by Marika Azzopardi, a freelance writer and journalist. A frequent contributor to national English language papers and magazines, she writes about a bevy of topics including art, people and life in general. She is also the author of children’s books and short stories, delving into adult fiction from time to time.

The post How to Keep Control of Your Rental Property appeared first on RE/MAX Malta: Real Estate Blog.

A small apartment is just what you can afford, which is just as well – you work all day and have little time to clean up your spaces. However, when you first moved in, the apartment looked quite big and you wondered how you would fill it up. Now, just a few months or years down the line, it is filled way over its capacity and you are wondering how on earth you can organise it all to retrieve some more elbow space. As the New Year spirit is still upon us, you are feeling ambitious – you want to turn that apartment around!

De-cluttering is not an easy task. Sometimes, you read good advice which just tells you to de-clutter and de-stress your life as you rid it of the superfluous. Sure – it’s superb advice, you are quite convinced it would do wonders for your lifestyle, but how to do it? How to decide what goes and what stays, and how to store whatever is left effectively? Chances are your storage options are not many since your apartment is small, and you may have furniture that is not storage-friendly.

First things first – look around your apartment on a normal day when you’re alone inside it. Clutter reigns? Start by putting things in their place. Don’t think about throwing anything away for now. Just put things in place. If some items remain unplaced, this may indicate there was never a place allotted to them or their space is taken up by something else. Have one big cardboard box at hand to stow away the ‘ I can live without these’ items which you can give away to your local charity shop, and a huge black plastic bag for garbage. Start identifying what is crying out for storage space and create grouping…

– 10 remote controls on your sofa? Assuming they all have a purpose, group them together in a little basket on the coffee table. Do they all work? Are they still valid? You may be still holding on to an old remote that belonged to the TV you gave away last Easter.

– Do you have stacks of books or magazines on the floor? Have you read them all? If you never have, chances are you never will. Give away the superfluous.

– Do kitchen utensils take over your kitchen top? Do you really need four plastic spatulas? Will you ever bake cupcakes or will that cupcake set take up space uselessly for the next decade? Are you eating off chipped plates? Perhaps it’s time you threw it all away and freed up space, by using the fine dinner-set and enjoying it for a change.

– Do you have heaps of clothing sitting around? Too much of the same? No organisation in the clothing department? Remove what you haven’t used for the past year or two and clear out.

Storage solutions that are effective and relatively easy to install include:

– Boxes – Do not disdain boxes. If you can afford to buy designer ones in raffia, leather, glossy plastic or linen, then do. Use for out-of-season clothing, woollen socks, accessories or lingerie, electronic accessories, spare wiring systems, games, stationery…… If you cannot afford fancy boxes, start out simple. Printing paper boxes for instance, are great carton quality and come equipped with lids. Ask somebody who works in a busy office to keep some aside for you. Alternatively visit your local supermarket and check out the empty boxes on their shelves. Purchase brown paper or fancy wrapping paper that tones in with your decor and cover the boxes with the help of glue. A series of these boxes will look neat sitting on top of your wardrobe, kitchen unit, or in a corner behind a door.

– Crates – For a shabby chic look, check out your local greengrocer for unwanted wooden fruit crates. These generally stack up easily on top of each other and sit neatly in kitchen corners or inside cupboards, holding food jars and tins, onions and potatoes…..

– Use files to stow away papers, bills, documents.

– Buy trolley racks, plastic or metal, to introduce inside cupboards to maximise storage space.

– Use labels where possible to help others identify and yourself remember what is where.

Good luck for the New Year project!
This article was written by Marika Azzopardi, a freelance writer and journalist. A frequent contributor to national English language papers and magazines, she writes about a bevy of topics including art, people and life in general. She is also the author of children’s books and short stories, delving into adult fiction from time to time.

The post Small Space Apartments – How to Store Without Clutter appeared first on RE/MAX Malta: Real Estate Blog.

Malta is well appreciated for the number of trendy home locations that are to be found dotted around the island. They are each trendy for different reasons, since people are so different and their tastes and individual preferences likewise. The diversity of such locations has ensured that they have all become popular and much sought-after for different reasons. Property in these locations promises effective investment and re-sale potential to locals and foreigners alike. Here is a carousel of a smattering of properties or locations which you may like to consider for your next purchase of real estate in Malta.

– Currently the most popular area for trendy living is Sliema, and one top-notch seller here is Tigné Point. A lifestyle development, it has welcomed new construction to the area whilst upgrading and restoring key historic sites within its perimeters. The focus is on elegant living with shopping proximity and a host of facilities to complement each property. Such facilities include office space, parking space, coffee shops, wining and dining opportunities, sports facilities and an active social area surrounding the shopping hotspots within The Point Shopping Mall.

– Close by in Sliema, one can find another new development – the Fort Cambridge apartments. Again in Sliema, and again located on a part of Sliema which directly overlooks the harbour and the city of Valletta beyond, Fort Cambridge includes luxury apartments in different bedroom capacity, from one-bed to four-bed space. 

– Still in Sliema but deeper within the urban network, you may find a townhouse with full amenities and the classic setting of one of the older streets of this town. Some of the more elegant streets carry English-sounding names that set the style for easy living.

– If you love the sea and don’t fancy a Sliema apartment, why not head to the other end of the island and slot yourself in Mellieha? This seaside town has all things necessary with a wide variety of properties available, ranging from small luxury apartments to detached villas with pool.

– If you prefer village life, one of the most elegant villages takes you to central Malta. Consider Lija, with its quaint and reserved qualities. A townhouse in this location can promise a step back in time, with fully fledged period qualities that include massive front doorways, large back gardens, and a range of high ceilinged rooms in between.

– A neighbour to Lija, yet on a larger scale, could be the town of Attard. This town is rendered even more distinct due to the presence of the President’s Palace and San Anton Gardens within it. Once again, you may opt for an elegant period house vs a typical 1970’s two storey villa sprawl, complete with pool.

– If you’re a city person, you may decide you want to live in Valletta. Here you can only go back in time, since no new buildings are to be found within or around the capital. Opt for a fifth floor apartment that gives you breathtaking views of the sea-line, or alternatively purchase a dilapidated palazzo and restore it to the affluent character it enjoyed in the times of the Knights.

-If you love the look of Valletta but don’t want to live in it, the next best option is living in any one of The Three Cities which look across at Valletta over the stretch of dividing sea. Whether you pick Vittoriosa, Senglea or the up & coming Cospicua, you will find property steeped in an ambience that encapsulates all that is Maltese.

– An alternative city but of a totally different character is Mdina. Here, most buildings are even older than the ones in Valletta or The Three Cities. And whilst you maintain the silence, you can sift back through history and decide what bohemian style you fancy yourself living in. House fronts are not always a direct indication of what you will find inside, and many of the really old buildings have interesting stories linked to them. Properties on sale in Mdina are extremely few and far between, so you will need the assistance of very good real estate agents in Malta to help you find something suitable.

– Rural living means you could opt for a country village and one of its older townhouses or farmhouses. Some of the more popular smaller villages include Qrendi, Safi, Ghaxaq, Bidnija, Bahrija….

In the end, you will decide for the place and property which speaks to you and allows you to listen to it. Enjoy the hunt and enjoy the relocation. You will probably decide to stay long.

This article was written by Marika Azzopardi, a freelance writer and journalist. A frequent contributor to national English language papers and magazines, she writes about a bevy of topics including art, people and life in general. She is also the author of children’s books and short stories, delving into adult fiction from time to time.

The post Malta’s Trendiest Real Estate Locations appeared first on RE/MAX Malta: Real Estate Blog.

 Embellishing your property in Malta is one of the things which keep it alive and bursting with energy. It is also another way of making the most of your investment by changing things, improving on them and generally keeping up-to-date with all the latest home embellishment ideas that most other people look out for when they look for real estate in Malta.

It has become fashionable to emulate the continental tradition of having wooden floors rather than the traditional hard floors. To some extent this could be a boon since hard floors have become humdrum, even whilst so many new floor tile fashion styles pop up in the shops. Wooden parquet tends to be particularly expensive but the wood is usually sturdy and water resistant so the investment is a reliable one. If you opt for laminate parquet, you need to take good note of cleaning and maintenance directions. At all costs, avoid excessive water which can damage this kind of parquet irreparably.

If you still adore hard floors but want a change to something even more classic, try replacing your standard hard floor tiling with colourful and patterned traditional Maltese tiles. With designs hailing back from the 19th and early 20th centuries, Maltese patterned floor tiles are smaller than average and come at a substantial cost, but the end result is exceptional, to say the least.

Alternatively, you can just decide to cover your old floors with fitted carpeting. Block coloured, striped, plush or patterned, top quality fitted carpets are made to last. If you can afford it, opt for a bespoke carpet tailor-made to a design you fancy, for the space you have in mind.

If fitted carpets are not your thing, perhaps you’d rather invest in carpets that can be safely rolled away when not wanted. The best to have are Persian carpets which are hand knotted to extravagant designs. Choose well and carefully since these are rare and unique artistic accomplishments that can last beyond your lifetime.

Whilst on the topic of floors, you might like to consider heated flooring. Now that is a high-flying electronic novelty that will go down well with those of us having cold, draughty, humid houses or apartments. Excellent in winter-time, you can have the system fixed to a timer that switches on the floor some time before you arrive home. And you can enjoy the rising warmth of your floor all evening.

Install a bath tub that transforms your bathing time. With an in-built spa, you can sit back and relax every evening, with a wine glass, candle-light and music in the background. Top brands have created home spas that can fit into small spaces comfortably.

Buy an AGA range for the kitchen. Top of the range in household kitchen appliances, the AGA is a traditional American cooking stove that doubles up as oven and cooker. It is made of cast iron, comes in top fashion colours, is extremely heavy-duty and extremely expensive, but every cook’s dream come true.

Get an artist to paint a mural on a feature wall. Note that this has to be an artist specialised in large paintings, or preferably somebody trained in graffiti/wall art. An original painting that creates high impact can work wonders on harnessing key elements in your general decor, accentuating things like good lighting, architectural details or family heirlooms which could be incorporated.

Install a crystal chandelier. Venetian crystal is especially unique and an original piece is a superb investment to show off in your house. Take note of exact sizing before making an order since these can come in huge sizes that could, if not well measured, dwarf the rest of your room.

Invest in landscaping for your outdoor areas. Even if you don’t have a garden, a professional landscape artist can create a unique outdoor space that includes lounging and shade potential, perhaps even some BBQspace.

A pool, even on an island such as Malta, is always a superlative investment. A luxury in itself, it becomes nonetheless a characteristic that adds up to your property’s value in a big way. Again, make sure you have the assistance of a great landscape artist who can help you maximise your pool-side space in unimaginable ways.

This article was written by Marika Azzopardi, a freelance writer and journalist. A frequent contributor to national English language papers and magazines, she writes about a bevy of topics including art, people and life in general. She is also the author of children’s books and short stories, delving into adult fiction from time to time.

The post Luxury Home Embellishments appeared first on RE/MAX Malta: Real Estate Blog.

16 kilometres from Valletta, St Paul’s Bay is a picturesque seaside town; but what exactly makes it a great place to live in?

Named after the famous incident in which St Paul was shipwrecked on Malta in 60AD, St Paul’s Bay is a gorgeous inlet in the north east of Malta that immaculately brings together the seaside, the countryside and a modern way of life.

The area under the jurisdiction of St Paul’s Bay’s Local Council spans 14.47km2 and encompasses Qawra, Bugibba, Xemxija, Burmarrad, Mselliet, San Martin and parts of Bidnija, and Mistra. Together they have a population of around 14,000, which swells to a staggering 60,000 in the summer, making it the second busiest part of the island in the hotter months.

Although many might deem St Paul’s Bay to be a summery and touristic place, the area has most of the required necessities for everyday life – making it an ideal place to live year-round. There are various mini-markets, pharmacies, restaurants and bars, while an award-winning primary school, which forms part of the Maria Regina College, caters for the youngest inhabitants of the area.

St Paul’s Bay is also just one scenic road away from St Julian’s and Sliema, where more restaurants, clinics, clubs, pubs, supermarkets and shopping complexes can be found. The only minor problem is the fact that St Paul’s Bay is relatively far away from Mater Dei Hospital, the University of Malta and most Sixth Forms, meaning that anyone working, studying or making use of any of these would have a long bus ride or car ride to get to them.

Nevertheless, St Paul’s Bay offers a lifestyle that is alien to certain parts of Malta. Its panoramic views of the sea and unspoilt countryside are surely worth a 20-minute drive to work in the morning. They allow for quiet, relaxing walks and easy-access to some of the best beaches in the area.

Ideally, anyone living in St Paul’s Bay should own at least one car, as public transport is neither the most frequent nor the most efficient; and anyone wishing to go out to paint the town red in Paceville might incur a hefty bill from taxi drivers. Nevertheless, St Paul’s Bay is ideal for retirees who wish to enjoy a calm and peaceful way of life without the crazy antics of the city.  There are ample British Pubs, Italian, Japanese as well as Chinese Restaurants not to mention the various other takeaways as well as hotels catering facilities where one can enjoy a relaxing night out.

The average property in St. Paul’s Bay is also not extortionately priced, particularly when compared to places in the St Julian’s-Sliema area, which is just a 20-minute car ride away. The standard of accommodation is very high, new builds as well as renovated apartment blocks as well as nicely kept abodes are located everywhere.  The area is popular with foreigners and locals alike purchasing second homes and summer residences in Malta.   A number of apartments and houses also boast some of the best views available on the island, and the fact that the sea and countryside are on your doorstep make it the ideal place for families with young children too.  The average listing price of a three bedroom apartment in St. Paul’s Bay is approximately €220, 000 though one may find a flat as little as €95, 000.  Penthouses range from €130, 000 to €495, 000 depending on the amenities where as Maisonettes may be found for a mere €105, 000 and can go up to around €350, 000.  There is a vast selection of properties for sale in St. Paul’s Bay.  All you need is a reputable estate agent in Malta to show you the ropes.

The post Why Would You Live in St Paul’s Bay? appeared first on RE/MAX Malta: Real Estate Blog.

Malta might be the obvious place to start looking to buy property, but here are some reasons we think you should also consider Gozo as a place to buy:

9. Good Market

The Gozitan property market is healthy and has increased steadily over the past few decades, making it a good investment.

8. Beautiful Unspoiled Surroundings

Yes Gozo is small, but it offers a surprisingly large variety of unspoiled places. From rugged windswept cliffs and green flower-filled valleys, to secluded beaches with crystal clear water, the island is gorgeously landscaped.

7. Village Life

Picture sleepy villages where time seems to slow down and where you can buy fresh fruit and vegetables off the back of a cart, or warm bread straight out of the baker’s oven (he knows you by name), where the church bells chime every hour, and where families have lived for generations. If you hanker for the old-school Mediterranean lifestyle, Gozo is the place for you.

6. Stunning Real Estate

If you’re after a farmhouse in Gozo perched atop a rocky cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, Gozo is a good place to start looking. Real estate in Gozo is different. Because of its size and geography, properties seem to be more spectacular here than almost anywhere else in Europe. The variety on offer is quite amazing, from penthouses in luxury developments to rustic, centuries-old farmhouses lovingly restored with all their unique quirks and features. Exceptional views, townhouses by the village square, palazzos with a pool…take our word for it, Gozitan properties have something extra special about them!

5. The Best of Malta Without the Bustle

Gozo is only 9 miles by 5 miles. Because of its size and location, it has succeeded in preserving many of the cultural characteristics that have now been lost or diluted in busy, cosmopolitan Malta, whilst at the same time retaining some of the best aspects of the mainland, such as English-speaking locals and excellent weather.

4. Good Infrastructure

Although it’s a tiny paradise island in the Mediterranean, Gozo does not suffer from a lack of services, as so many of the smaller Mediterranean islands do. It has a good hospital, excellent public transport, a heliport with a direct service to Malta International Airport, good schools, and a regular, reliable ferry service to/from Malta that operates all year round.

3. Lifestyle

Quiet but vibrant in places, Gozo offers the best of both worlds. The island boasts some of the country’s best restaurants, cafés, bars, and clubs. At the same time, it is still the kind of place where you can get lost, or where your kids can play outside in the village square or a nearby field.

2. Close to Malta

Whilst it may seem like a world away from Malta, it’s actually only a 20 minute ferry to/from Cirkewwa in Malta. You can commute to Malta for work and, in fact, many people do.

1. Price

Property prices remain comparatively cheaper than in Malta. As in many small places in the world, the property market in Gozo is built upon personal relationships and trust, which is why you need someone who knows the island and who has experience dealing with the Gozitan real estate market, so that you can find the best possible property for the best possible price.  This is why it is always recommended to choose a real estate agent that is trustworthy and has a reputable name.

There you go.  9 definitely good reasons to purchase a property on Malta’s sister Island of Gozo.

The post Top 9 Reasons to Buy Property in Gozo appeared first on RE/MAX Malta: Real Estate Blog.

The islands of Malta and Gozo are ideal locations where one can safely purchase property of any size, category, and potential with the aim of creating a trustworthy rental investment. The fact that the islands are very small and that space is quite limited does not seem to create any difficulty in providing a steady supply of investment opportunities.

Whether a Maltese national or a foreigner, the rental investment is a possibility here. There are various options to consider and we are here giving some guidelines to help readers decide on the best rental investment they can make for long term reliability in the sphere of letting.

• Many people start out by purchasing a property for their own use. It pays to look at particular considerations, which would make the property purchase an investment with good returns in the eventuality that a decision is taken to let it out whether for short or long term rentals.

• Long-term rentals yield you a steady monthly income from one source whereas a short-term rental yields you higher rental income from various sources that are not guaranteed. If you have the energy to advertise your property in foreign and local websites and take care of weekly maid services, communicating with potential renters and accepting bookings, then a short-term rental investment may suit your needs.

• Choose your location well, taking note of the areas that are the most popular for property rentals in Malta with tourists and individuals working in Malta. Every individual is of a different category – ranging from students, bachelors and small families, to upmarket well-to-do individuals seeking the best of quality and luxury. Tourists are mainly looking to wind down and relax on the islands, or are after a busy few days of culture and history. The point here is that each category generally has a different budget, with specific needs and requirements.

• Invest in a small, one or two bedroom apartment such as a bachelor’s pad, a one-bed penthouse, a one or two-bed apartment or a small maisonette in a thriving hot spot such as St. Julian’s, Paceville, Sliema, Bugibba, Qawra, Xemxija. These smaller properties sometimes yield the best rental return depending on the market. This return can be anywhere from 4% to 8% per annum.

• Invest in a larger medium-sized property with two or three bedrooms such as an apartment or maisonette. Depending on your strategy, you may choose to accommodate the English Language schools or simply cater for smaller families or couples. The locations that would work for upmarket clients would be Swieqi, Ta’ Xbiex Ta’ L-Ibraġġ, Sliema, St. Julian’s; whereas if you are looking for medium market clients you would look in the following areas: Msida, Valletta, Gżira, Tal-Qroqq, St. Paul’s Bay and Marsascala. Rental yields are still substantial and may range from 3.5% to 6.5%.

• Invest in a small and old property such as a little townhouse located in The Three cities, in Valletta, in Rabat or in one of the quaint old towns such as Zejtun, Balzan or Tarxien. This kind of property, if converted to high specifications, will attract the out-of-the-ordinary rental clients who are looking for a little tranquility and want to avoid the hustle and bustle.

• Invest in a Special Designated Area (SDA). The properties in these areas are not only rising rapidly in appreciation on a yearly basis, but also yield excellent rental income. If you are looking for a place to move into when the kids move out, somewhere like Portomaso, Tigne Point or Fort Cambridge would be ideal. The advice we’re giving is that you should buy now, whilst prices are still affordable, and so when that day dawns on you, you would have rented the property for a few years and the place would be ready for you. Other SDAs are also interesting prospects.

At the end of the day, do follow the guidelines of a reputable estate agency. A credible real estate company in Malta will have specialists in rental investments that will assist not only with the search for the ideal property you have in mind, but also help you with closing the sale, finding you the right tenants to let your property and ensure that are provided the necessary paperwork to safeguard your interests.

The post Buying a Property to let out in Malta appeared first on RE/MAX Malta: Real Estate Blog.