You’ve set your budget and defined a wish list -now it’s time to view properties.
In Malta and Gozo, you can search with a real estate agent, go direct to owners, or use a property broker (also known as a ‘sensar’).
Platforms like www.propertyportfolio.com.mt can help make the search process easier by collecting listings from multiple agencies in Malta & Gozo, making finding a property easier.
Each route has pros and cons, and the viewing itself is where you confirm value, spot issues, and decide whether to move forward.
💡 Property Portfolio MT is your go‑to platform to find properties from multiple agencies in one place, so you can compare options faster and book viewings quicker.
Step 1: How to search for your property/home
There are three common ways to find homes:
- Real estate agents,
- Direct from owner, and
- Property brokerage services (sensar).
All intermediaries must hold a valid licence to work in real estate in Malta.
💡 Tip: When viewing a property with an intermediary, always ask if they have a valid real estate license,
Whichever route you choose, keep your ranked wish list handy so you can brief the agent/owner clearly and compare options fairly.
Step 2: Where to start looking
Use a blend of online and offline channels to widen your search.
When a property matches your budget and criteria, schedule a viewing promptly. If you are not using an agent, contact the owner directly; otherwise, your agent will book for you.
Search channels
| Online methods | Examples |
|---|---|
| Property Platforms | Platforms like Property Portfolio MT aggregate listings to simplify search |
| Social media | Facebook Marketplace, Facebook Groups, Facebook Pages, Instagram |
| Websites | Real estate agent sites, property broker sites, developer sites |
| Offline methods | Examples |
|---|---|
| In-person | Visit real estate agents or property brokers |
| Local walk-around | Look for “For Sale” signs; ask locally (word of mouth) |
💡 Tip: Confirm who will attend (owner/agent), ask for property plans in advance if available, and keep your calendar flexible to see strong matches quickly.
Step 3: What to take to a viewing
Go prepared. Bringing the right tools helps you record details accurately, compare homes like-for-like, and spot issues you might otherwise miss.
Viewing kit
| Item | Why bring it |
|---|---|
| Notebook & pen | Capture room sizes, observations, pros/cons, repair notes. |
| Measuring tool | Verify room dimensions and furniture fit. |
| Your wish list | Check must-haves vs nice-to-haves in real time. |
| Flashlight | Inspect darker areas (box rooms, ceilings, shafts). |
| Phone/camera | Photos and short videos to compare later. |
| Question list | Ensure you ask everything important. |
| Property plans | Request in advance or at the visit (older homes may not have plans readily available). |
💡 Tip: Immediately after the viewing, update your notes and re-rank priorities while impressions are fresh.
Step 4: What to check on site
A viewing is more than a quick look around. Use it to test value, surface risks, and plan your next steps.
Price & market signals
- Compare to nearby listings: A significantly lower asking price may point to hidden costs (e.g., renovation) or underlying issues.
- Many “for sale” signs nearby: Could indicate area-specific concerns.
- Duration on the market: Typically, when a property has been on the market for too long it could signal potential issues with the property.
- Numerous Agency Stickers: Properties having numerous amount of “For Sale” signs could signal potential issues, such as being over priced, having a ground rent, and so on.
💡 Tip: When properties are listed as “Exclusive” with an agency, it typically signals that the property was reviewed by the agency, deemed it as good to sell, and onboarded it as a good property.
Condition & structure
- Structural damages: Look for movement cracks, signs of settlement, deteriorated beams/concrete slabs, and cracked masonry ceiling slabs (xorok). These are not automatic deal-breakers, but they can be costly. Budget accordingly and use them in negotiations or as conditions to complete works before purchase. Assistance from an architect is recommended because not all damage is obvious.
- Water ingress & waterproofing: Check ceilings, walls, and wet areas.
- Finishes: Humidity, mould, insect infestations, cracked windows.
Compliance & changes
- Suspicious work: Ask if permits were obtained where required.
- Finishings list: For on-plan or finished homes, ask what the price includes (e.g., doors, bathrooms, common area expenses).
- Expected move-in time: Especially for homes under construction; plan for potential delays.
- Developer reputation: For on-plan/under-construction, consider their track record.
- Nearby developments: Check for planned works on neighbouring sites.
Rights & restrictions
- Third-party servitudes/easements: e.g., apertures overlooking the property, rights of access, shared cisterns/drainage/water catchment, or passage of third-party services.
- Rental restrictions: Some homes have limits on future renting.
- Restrictions on renovation/extension: Short- or long-term limits may apply.
- Sanitary laws & planning permits: Architect assistance is recommended.
History & tenure
- Property age & last renovation date: Older homes may require repairs.
- Previous owners’ tenure: Quick resales can indicate issues, but reasons may be personal (e.g., financial, divorce).
- Issues/disputes/ownership uncertainties: These can cause complications and delays.
Apartment-specific
- Block basics: How many units? Which are sold? Active association? Costs (lift maintenance, condominium fees)?
Step 5: After a good first impression
If no red flags appear, book a second viewing and bring a specialist (e.g., an architect) for a thorough inspection. Specialists can catch issues you might miss and advise on repair scope and cost.
Next, ask the seller/vendor for their deed of acquisition. Have your notary review it to identify any potential issues, such as ground rents (the agent would typically know this as well, so you can ask them too, but the final confirmation will be through the notary).
This professional review can surface title or rights concerns early and help you decide whether to proceed or negotiate safeguards.
💡 Tip: The first property you view is rarely the one you buy. Stay positive; the right one will come along.
Short FAQ (source-based)
Q1: Why use an agent?
A: Efficiency, market knowledge, skilled negotiation, diverse property portfolio – plus guidance on what to avoid.
Q2: What should I bring to viewings?
A: Notebook, measuring tool, wish list, flashlight, phone/camera, question list, and plans if available.
Q3: Who should inspect the property?
A: An architect is recommended, especially for structural and compliance checks.
Mini-glossary
- Property broker (sensar): An intermediary service charge 1% commission from both parties.
- Servitudes/Easements: Rights that allow others certain uses affecting your property (e.g., access, overlooking apertures, shared cisterns/services).
- Xorok: Masonry ceiling slabs; cracks can indicate issues to investigate.
- Deed of acquisition: The seller’s document proving how they acquired the property; ask your notary to review it.
In Summary
Property viewings turn your wish list into real-world choices.
Decide how you’ll search (agent, direct, or broker), prepare your viewing kit, and examine price signals, condition, compliance, and rights.
If the home passes your first checks, bring in an architect and have a notary review the seller’s deed of acquisition before making an offer. Which three checks from this guide will you prioritise on your next viewing?
Next up: Making the Offer (and making it count!)
In part 4 of our First-Time Buyer Blog Series, we’ll help you understand how to make an offer, what to include, and how to negotiate like a pro (even if you’ve never negotiated in your life).
Follow Property Portfolio for real estate tips, listings, and guidance designed for Maltese buyers.
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.
