Malta Real Estate

Having more than 10 years of experience on the Maltese real estate market, Dr Kresse International Law Firm offers a wealth of know how when it comes to property leases and purchases in Malta. We guide our clients through the buying and selling process and offer consultancy concerning property lease agreements, both private and commercial.

For the purchase of a property abroad, it is advisable to consult a law firm that is familiar with local real estate law and also has a good overview of the market, which the client can use for his security and advantage.

For our international, mainly German speaking clients, who intend to buy a property on the Maltese Islands (in Malta or Gozo) our consultancy entails a 7-step approach:

1. Definition of Requirements

We request that clients communicate with us on whether they would like to acquire a modern apartment (e.g. a maisonette or penthouse) or whether they are looking for a house of character in an urban area or a farmhouse in a quiet rural village.

2. Budget Considerations

Clients need to define a budget range for themselves in relation to the location, size and type of property they want to buy. We assist and advise about market conditions in accordance with our longstanding expertise in this sector.

3. Consult about a local agency of trust

Kresse Law maintains close relationships with a number of reliable local and international property agents and is thus in a position to advise the clients about the most suitable options for them.

4. Arrange viewings

In collaboration with the agency of choice, we arrange property viewings for our clients.

5. Clarify the asking price and making an offer

Once clients have chosen a specific property, we provide assistance in deciding on a suitable price to offer to the seller.

6. Arrange a Promise of Sale Agreement (Konvenju)

When a price has been agreed upon, we will start the preparation of a Promise of Sale Agreement by the chosen Notary, binding both parties to the transaction based on the agreed terms and conditions.

The Konvenju, usually valid for 3 months, will then be signed by both parties and notarised. The whole procedure of purchasing the property will take place in English.
A 10% deposit of the sales price and 1% of the usual total of 5% stamp duty fee are payable at this stage.

After the signing of the Konvenju, the Notary will carry out the necessary searches regarding the property title and confirm – prior to the Final Deed – that there are no encumbrances attached to the property.

7. Final Deed

When all conditions of the Promise of Sale Agreement have been met, the parties will agree on a date to sign the Final Deed prepared by the Notary.
The Final Deed is often signed at our offices at the law firm.

Once signed and notarised, the contract will be registered at the Public Registry by the Notary.