Create the Perfect Property Wish List
Starting a home search in Malta or Gozo is easier when you know what really matters to you.
Once your budget and loan potential are clear, the next step is building a realistic wish list and ranking your must-haves against your nice-to-haves in a property/home.
This article turns the provided guidance into plain, practical steps.
You’ll learn how location, property type, size, and features influence price and timing; how to think about noise and amenities; and when to trade speed for value (e.g., buying on plan vs already built).
Step 1: How to build (and refine) your wish list
Begin by splitting your criteria into two buckets and ranking them:
- Must-haves: essentials you won’t compromise on (e.g., minimum bedrooms, lift, locality).
- Nice-to-haves: preferences you can trade for value (e.g., larger terrace, extra bathroom).
Write your list down and take it to every viewing.
Expect it to evolve: after seeing layouts, light, and flow in person, you’ll adjust what matters most. Keep your budget front and centre, this keeps expectations realistic and helps you act quickly when a good match appears. (You can refer to the previous article for more information on how to properly set up a budget for your first property purchase here)
Simple decision prompt for each feature:
- Would I walk away if this is missing? If yes, keep it as a must-have.
- Would I pay extra to get it? If no, it’s a nice-to-have.
💡 Viewing tip: Re-rank your list after each viewing day while impressions are fresh. The goal isn’t to find a “perfect” property; it’s to find the right fit for your needs and budget, with clear trade-offs you accept.
Quick checklist to rank
| Item | General advice |
|---|---|
| Location and noise level | Visit at different times of day. Stand outside for 5 minutes to gauge noise. Prioritise streets you’d feel good walking home on. |
| Access to amenities (shops, buses) | Map your daily needs within a 10‑minute walk. If you rely on buses, check routes and frequency. |
| Property type (apartment, maisonette, penthouse, house) | Pick the type that fits budget and upkeep. Apartments are simple; houses add space and maintenance. |
| Size and layout (space distribution) | Favour smart layouts over raw size. Look for light, storage, and good room flow. |
| Bedrooms and bathrooms | Set your minimum. Extra bathrooms are a comfort bonus but add to the property price. Commonly, it is the number of bedrooms that can increase the price. |
| Outdoor space (balcony/terrace) | Choose the outdoor area you’ll use. Check sun, wind, and privacy. |
| Garage (yes/no) | If street parking works, skip to save money. If parking is tight, price a garage early. |
| Completion level (on plan/shell/finished) | On plan or shell can be cheaper but slower. Finished is faster and simpler. |
| Furnishings (unfurnished/semi/fully) | Fully furnished = quick move‑in. Unfurnished = customise and spread costs. |
| Developer/contractor preference | Prefer a proven track record. Ask for recent handovers and references (if possible). |
Step 2: Location first – area choice drives both price and lifestyle
Choose the area before the individual home. Locality strongly influences price and day-to-day living.
Some Insights:
- Northern Harbour (e.g., Sliema, St Julian’s) tends to be more expensive than other localities such as H’Attard, Siggiewi, Haz-Zebbug areas.
- Gozo and the Southern region being amongst the cheapest currently.
- The top five localities among first-time buyers: St Paul’s Bay, Mosta, Birkirkara, Żurrieq, Żabbar.
- Many first-time buyers prefer staying near where they currently live. This is more common when buying together; solo buyers often face more trade-offs due to tighter budgets.
Noise & amenities matter:
- Busier areas often cost less but come with more noise.
- Being close to shops and bus routes can be a practical priority.
Step 3: Property type, size, and layout
Property type: Apartments are most common for first-time buyers, especially solo buyers. For buyers purchasing together, houses, penthouses and maisonettes are increasingly considered, though apartments remain amongst the most popular.
Size vs distribution:
Don’t judge by square metres alone. A well-planned layout can make a smaller home feel bigger. Think about:
- Separation of bedrooms from living areas
- Storage options
- Light and ventilation
- Practical circulation (how you move through rooms)
Bedrooms & bathrooms: Decide your minimum upfront. An extra bathroom or ensuite is a comfort bonus, but weigh it against budget and location.
Outdoor space: From a decent balcony to a large terrace, outside space adds enjoyment and influences price. Decide if it’s a must-have or a nice-to-have.
Garage: Most first-time buyers in Malta and Gozo do not buy a garage. Buyers purchasing together are more likely to include a garage than solo buyers. Consider street parking and public transport when deciding.
Step 4: Completion level, furnishings, and timing
How quickly do you want to move in? Your answer drives both cost and risk.
On plan vs already built:
- On plan homes are typically cheaper but take longer to deliver. There’s risk of delays or differences from initial plans, so be certain if this is the path to you wish to take.
- Already built homes let you see exactly what you’re buying and usually enable faster move-in.
Furnishings:
- Unfurnished: no furniture.
- Semi-furnished: some basics (e.g., bed, sofa, or kitchen).
- Fully furnished: furniture, appliances, and essentials.
Property age:
- Newly built vs older. Older buildings may require renovation; if works were done, verify the quality and inspect with suitable professionals to avoid surprises.
Contractor/developer:
Preference for a specific builder is a valid criterion, especially if you value track record and communication.
💡 Tip: Ask your notary if they have any experience working with the developer you are looking to buy from – this can help verify their reputation and position in the property market.
In Summary
A clear, written wish list helps you make confident choices and respectful compromises. Start with the area (balancing price, noise, and amenities), then weigh property type, followed by layout, and outdoor space.
Decide whether speed (already built, finished, furnished) or savings (on plan, shell) matters more.
Most importantly, keep refining your priorities after each viewing.
Which two must-haves are you unwilling to compromise on, and which two nice-to-haves would you happily trade for a better location or layout?
Short FAQs
Q1: Should I choose the property or the area first?
A: Start with the area. Locality impacts price, noise, and access to amenities.
Q2: Are apartments the best choice for first-time buyers?
A: Apartments are most common, especially for solo buyers. Couples buying together increasingly look at houses and maisonettes too.
Q3: Is a garage essential?
A: Most first-time buyers do not purchase a garage; buyers purchasing together are more likely to do so.
Q4: Is buying on plan risky?
A: There can be delays or differences from initial plans. However, reliable developers often deliver as promised. Reliability can also be confirmed by asking your notary’s advice on a specific developer.
Mini-glossary
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| On plan | Buying a property before it’s built. Often cheaper with a longer wait and possible changes. |
| Shell form | Structure exists but requires finishing. Buyer funds and manages completion. |
| Finished | Ready or close to move into. Finishing already completed (some properties may be offered including bathrooms and doors) |
| Furnishing levels | Unfurnished: no furniture. Semi-furnished: some basics. Fully furnished: ready to live in. |
This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal, tax, or financial advice. Always consult a licensed professional in Malta for your specific situation.
Up Next: How to View Properties Like a Pro
In the next part of our First-Time Buyers Blog Series, we’ll cover how to prepare for viewings – what to bring, what questions to ask, and how to spot red flags.
Follow us at Property Portfolio for the full guide!
