In line with RE/MAX Letting’s commitment to enhance its long term relationships with corporate clients originating from the iGaming sector in Malta, the company participated in the ICE Exhibition held at London at Earls Court Exhibition Centre between the 24th – 26th January. RE/MAX was the only Maltese real estate agency that participated in this exhibition.

The ICE Exhibition is one of the largest iGaming events in the world which showcases to thousands of visitors the services of software developers, licensing companies, recruitment companies, call centres, co-location centres and strategic jurisdictions. Malta was represented at the exhibition with a combined stand hosted by Malta Enterprise and the Lotteries and Gaming Author (more…)

I would not say that there very many people currently eyeing real estate in Malta, or who are in the process of relocating to Malta, who bother about the island’s gastronomic history and contemporary culinary delights and I dont think that the reputable real estate agent in Malta that you may be using would think of telling you much about it.  Not saying that he or she couldn’t be your perfect conceirge.  The Maltese cuisine is a part of the culture you may be considering considering to relocate to so we felt this article may be of interest. (more…)

‘You sure have it all,’ my friend told me, adding, ‘when God was handing out the gifts He was certainly lavish with your island.’

The middle aged successful ex-banker had just relocated from Munich to ‘my’ Malta and we were having dinner to (more…)

A recent survey carried out by the Inter-Organisations Section at the OECD and Eurostat  was published regarding rental rates of accommodation in Europe.  Five different property types were used including 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments together with non-detached and detached houses.  Malta property rental rates were on the lower end of the spectrum together with Ankara, Riga, and Nicosia, where the average rental for a one bedroom apartment in Malta was € 440 per month, a three bedroom apartment averaged out at approximately € 820 per month.  Detached houses averaged at € 2000 per month whereas non detached houses averaged at €1, 130 per month.

The survey also measured (more…)

RE/MAX Malta management recently attended a press conference organised by the Chamber of Commerce that tackled the permanent residency scheme which is currently on hold for the moment. The Chamber of Commerce acting under their real estate section, together with the Federation of Estate Agents, Malta Developers Association and the Special Designated Areas, combined forces to elevate the situation and inform the public, its client’s as well as Government that they are concerned that the permanent residency (more…)

According to the International Living website Malta placed first, tied with another country, as the best climate in the world.  Every year in the month of January they rate and rank 192 countries according to their Quality of Life Index in Nine Categories.  Both countries are English Speaking however, though their climate’s are absolutley perfect, the Inflation and Political unrest of Zimbabwe is not the best of attractions.  Malta has 5.2 hours of sunshine per day - including December and the site states that “Foreignors are coming in Droves” to the Republic of Malta. (more…)

RE/MAX Malta, the real estate company, exhibited at the ICE Totally Gaming show at Earl’s Court between the 25^th and the 27^th of January.  ICE, which is one of the largest iGaming annual exhibitions to be organised in the world attracts approximately 19, 000 visitors every year from over 122 sovereign states including Malta.  The Island of Malta was represented at the exhibition by the LGA and Malta Enterprise who this year teamed up for the first time to market the country’s strategic position as one of the leading Juristdictions in the Industry.

RE/MAX Malta’s presence at the exhibition confirms the company’s commitment to the Industry as service providers.  The company has been providing relocation and  real estates services in Malta to (more…)

If you are thinking of buying a property in the Mediterranean where the sun shines 365 days a year, you have come to the right place.  Not only because the Sun does shine throughout the year but because Malta offers a very advantageous tax advantage if you were to buy a property in Malta and become a resident.  Read on to learn more……. (more…)

In this list you will find a selection of Malta Property and Gozo Property that are exclusively listed with RE/MAX Malta.  We take pride in representing our exclusive listings and wish to share this portfolio with you.

This page will be updated consistently with new exclusive listings as they are added to our database.  Exclusive listings are properties that are only represented by RE/MAX and you will not find these properties listed with other real estate websites.  If you are interested in any of the properties hereunder or if there isn’t any property in Malta or Gozo in this list that is of interest contact us anyways.  As we have the largest database of properties in Malta and Gozo we are bound to find you your dream castle.

Our agents are professionally trained to answer any questions you may have about relocating to Malta or Gozo and purchasing a property in Malta and/or Gozo, whether ……read more on Property in Malta Exclusive listed by RE/MAX

Have you ever dreamt of moving abroad to an English speaking Island in the middle of the Mediterranean where crime is practically non-existent, the climate is pleasant throughout the year, the standard of living is high and the cost of living being reasonably low?  Well, you can stop dreaming because your wishes may even be closer than you think.   You might just want to start packing your bags after you read this. (more…)

Today more than ever homeowners need to focus on creating a comprehensive plan for marketing their property. Use this video to learn why RE/MAX agents are uniquely qualified to help you successfully market your home in today’s real estate market

Most people only think of residential property when considering becoming a landlord which indeed involves the least risk. Today’s Malta property rental market is buoyant due to the number of companies relocating to Malta from various industries such as internet gaming & finance just to mention a couple.  This high demand created by a strong government infrastructure that accommodates the needs of these companies creates a natural demand for rental property in Malta from the company executives and staff that relocate to Malta to operate the respective businesses.

The type of employees that seek out employment overseas are usually highly educated or trained according to their job descriptions and therefore are able to afford an average to above average rent ranging from € 400 per month, which would accommodate them in a one bedroom apartment to € 700 per month which would able the employee to afford a luxury two bedroom apartment next to the seafront.  Executives usually rent properties with prices ranging from € 1000 up to even € 3500. These budgets would afford them anything from a seafront apartment in Sliema to a condominium apartment in one of our luxury developments in Sliema (Tigne Point, Fort Cambridge) or St. Julian’s (Portomaso, Pender Gardens) that include pool facilities, parking facilities as well as security along with surroundng amenities.

Though the corporate executives are already training Maltese employees to take up these positions in order to save on costs, the rate of new companies setting foot down on our shores outweighs the rate that Maltese are being trained and therefore demand is continuous. There is also the facture that some highly skilled employees maybe headhunted or decide to move away from Malta and therefore a foreign replacement would be a necessity for that company.

The main areas of relocation are St. Julian’s, Sliema, Swieqi, Gzira, Msida as well as Ta’ L-Ibrag, High Ridge and Madliena.  Some employees choose to live further afield however these are too few to even mention when we are considering company employees or executives.

The return on invest ranges from 3% to 5% and sometimes you may be able to get 6% if you invest wisely. 

There is also a market in the South of Malta as well as in the North of Malta however we will touch those markets in a different article scheduled in the near future.  We will also touch the commercial property in Malta market in the next issue.

It is recommended to contact a reputable Malta real estate agent in  for further advice on how you can invest and achieve the best return on investment for your money.

In recent years reports and statistics have revealed a considerable increase in the number of people investing in rental properties and therefore becoming new landlords. Indeed, for some, buy to let Malta property has become an alternative to other forms of investment.

Unlike banks and investment instruments such as bonds, property gives a double return: income in the form of rent plus capital growth, and in some areas capital growth has been quite outstanding. The income (initial yield) should be enough to cover your mortgage payments, with a margin for safety built-in.  At first glance Malta property is a foolproof way to wealth and security: once the place is successfully let all the landlord has to do is sit back and watch the money roll in! Well, it’s not quite as easy as that, but a properly managed property investment can be a very good way of increasing your wealth. There are pit falls though and if the management side is neglected you could have real problems. 

Letting is a relatively complex area which requires a fair amount of knowledge. The best option would therefore be to use a real estate agent in Malta to do your lettings and thus minimise the risks related to market knowledge and maximum promotion.  For the tenant, renting has become a convenient alternative to buying and for some it has become the only option:

• Job mobility, job insecurity and short-term work contracts mean that many are now wary about becoming locked-in to owning a property.
• Co-habitation prior to marriage again means that couples are often reluctant to become looked-in to a property and a large mortgage, which may be difficult to unravel if there is a split.
• Higher divorce rates and an ageing population, with people in general living longer, has increased demand for housing and particularly single person accommodation.
• In some high-priced areas first time buyers in Malta have been priced-out and renting has become the only option. 

For the landlord, whether it’s a side-line to an existing day job or a full-time occupation, buying to let a Malta property has become an alternative to other forms of savings and investment:

• Renting property in Malta has become more socially acceptable in Malta, though there is still a long way to go before we reach mainland European and US levels. 
• We have entered a more sympathetic legal climate for the landlord.
• Buy-to-Let mortgages have meant that property investment has become a real alternative to stocks & shares, with an added bit of satisfaction and excitement for those who take to it.
• Low interest rates offered by banks encourage people with some capital to look for better returns: property is generally a solid form of investment and rarely can you lose all your money, as you can with stocks and shares.
• The volatility of the stock markets have made some consider property and “landlording” as a safe alternative. 

Many start-out buying and letting as a side-line and end up owning a portfolio of properties large enough to support them financially – indeed there have probably been more millionaires created in Europe from property related businesses than almost any other occupation. Furthermore, there is an added incentive to enter this field as it is now being predicted that early retirement may not be an option for most people and that pensions may not provide all we desire in old age. 

Look out for the next article that will give you an insight on Residential and Commercial investments as well as the customers that rent them.

Written by:

Andrew Agius Muscat – Business Management Analyst

Mr. Agius Muscat is a Business Management Analyst who has extensive back ground in the business world.  He is presently the Chief Executive Offices at the Malta Institute of Management and has held several top management positions. He recently held the position of Group Strategist and Planner for Attard Bros Group, a real estate developement and construction company in Malta.

RE/MAX Malta is organising a two day seminar for their associates and managers featuring 2 foreign key note speakers.  The Chief Operating Officer and Managing Director of RE/MAX Europe, Mr. Charles ‘Chuck’ Lemire and Richard Duggal, a Top 100 RE/MAX associate from North America will be arriving in Malta on the 21^st of April 2010 to participate in the seminar that will be held at the five star Corinthia Hotel, located St. Georges Bay, St. Julian’s.

The annual event is organised every year as part of RE/MAX Malta’s commitment to the education of their associates and managers alike.   The event will also include two local trainers, Mr. Paul Vincenti, the RE/MAX’s approved trainer and Mr. James Busuttil, of RE/MAX Central located in B’kara. Regional Director of RE/MAX Malta commented by saying ”It will be an honour to have Mr. Lemire back in Malta with us.  We are lucky to have the availability of such influential speakers such as Mr. Lemire and Mr. Duggal.  We look forward to another successful event”

The first day of the event has exclusively been organised for their associates.  The full day will begin with a lecture on setting up a business plan and implementing it and will end with an agent rally that will be delivered by Chuck Lemire and Mr. Richard Duggal.  The second day is reserved for just managers who will particpate in a workshop titled “Managing your business”. The two day seminar is strictly for RE/MAX associates and managers only however they will also be organising a public event called ’60 minutes with RE/MAX’. 

60 minutes with RE/MAX is an open-to-all introduction to RE/MAX ideal for individuals looking for a career change or those interested to know more about RE/MAX.  The event will be held on the 22^nd April 2010 at The Corinthia Hotel, St. Georges Bay, St. Julian’s and will start at 19.30hrs, followed by a cocktail reception at 20.30hrs at the same venue.  To participate one must register their interest by calling Ilona Farrugia on 25783300 or by sending an email at info@remax-malta.com.

Chuck Lemire is a 13-year veteran of the RE/MAX system with over 20 years of experience in the real estate industry. Under Lemire’s leadership as Executive Vice-President/Regional Director, the RE/MAX New England Region grew by over 2,000 Sales Associates, from 1,945 Associates to 4,000 in 280 offices, in only five years. An accomplished executive in the area of Franchise Sales and Business Development, Lemire’s experience and leadership are a tremendous resource to RE/MAX Europe’s Regional Owners, many of whom received initial training from Lemire. A key contributor to the RE/MAX network, Lemire is a catalyst for unparalleled growth in the regions he serves. A licensed real estate broker and native New Englander, Lemires’ focus is on the growth and quality service development of RE/MAX Europe.

Richard Duggal passionately enjoys sharing his knowledge, his  dynamic pro-active marketing systems, and “trade secrets” with Re/max professionals  across North America and Europe. He is constantly creating success stories with Real Estate professionals showing the way  to high production. He has also built his own powerful team of agents with his training, coaching and natural and compelling accountability systems. As a training consultant to the world’s largest real estate coaching organizations he is recognized to be one of the best in the industry in sales presentation and prospecting skills, a designation that meets and is consistent with his accomplishments. As well as regular placement in the coveted Re/max Top 100 list he is also a recipient of the Diamond Club Award. With an 18 year top producer track record in the industry Richard is constantly improving his skills and systems and leads by example by pushing himself to always be growing. He credits much of his success and enjoyment of real estate to the RE/MAX system.

One can also follow this event on Facebook by clicking on this link: http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/event.php?eid=104722182902550&ref=nf

Or if your interested in learning more about Careers at RE/MAX go to www.join-remax-malta.com . 

RE/MAX Malta is the fastest growing real estate agency on the Maltese Islands.  If your interested in buying, selling or renting a property in Malta contact one of our eight offices.

This is the first of a series of interviews that will provide a close-up of some of the most prominent luxury properties currently listed with RE/MAX Malta.

 James Vassallo, Sales & Marketing Director of Tigne´ Point properties shares some insight about the kind of luxury properties they have placed on the market.

“The apartments at Tigné Point have been designed to offer a variety of different layouts and sizes and planned to capture light on this south facing peninsula. The foreshore designs exploit the stunning views of Valletta, of Sliema Creek or of the open sea, whilst the high rise apartments are planned to enjoy the tranquility of the serene car-free courtyards and gardens situated between the blocks. An extensive use of glass allows the living spaces to be bathed in natural light while double glazing preserves tranquility and has insulating qualities.

Crowning the eastern tip of the peninsula and situated directly on the waterfront, the latest block at Tigne´ Point, T10 completes the South phase of the development and is witness not only to the ever-changing hues of sky, sea and stone but to Malta’s main yachting playground. Some residences enjoy the captivating views of the magnificent Valletta skyline and Grand Harbour entrance or of the foreshore, whilst others overlook an open, landscaped courtyard or the beautifully restored 18^th century Fort Tigné.

 With interior finishes styled and selected by renowned designer Pippa Toledo, T10 also incorporates a centralised heating and cooling (HVAC) plant which scores very highly in terms of energy efficiency. This is run by SIS ltd, the joint venture between MIDI and Siemens SpA (SIS), which also provides for a sophisticated telephony and internet infrastructure based on fibre-optic technology.

 These apartments were very well received, so much so that the bulk of these properties have now been sold with only a handful still up for grabs.”

 Recession, slow sales… how has the recent period of time effected sales of your properties, if at all?

“With very few of the stock launched to the market to date still for sale, we have managed to retain our prices and still achieve a reasonable and steady stream of sales notwithstanding the adverse Malta property market conditions. When compared to a lot of other Mediterranean destinations Malta seems to have held its own quite well with the higher segment of the market outperforming much of the rest. It has not been easy – and we are not through it yet of course – but so far our ‘steady-as-she-goes’ approach has paid off and we have continued to sell our properties throughout 2009. Hopefully things will take a turn for the better by mid – end 2010.”

 What is the most difficult part of selling a luxury property in Malta, especially a luxury apartment like the ones you are promoting, especially considering that there are others presently on the market which are competing for the same category?

“A lot of boxes need to be ticked before you get a client to part with some 1 or 2 Million Euro for their dream home.  Buyers in this bracket tend to be very discerning, have a pretty good idea of what they want and are able to make an accurate comparative analysis of their options – which of course, at these rates, include properties both in Malta and abroad. The first thing you find yourself doing is selling Malta which, to be honest, is not that difficult – especially if you are able to take the client out to experience the islands’ many and varied charms.  There are many hurdles to surpass of course, including the usual brigade of ‘experts’ who will shower your potential buyer with a hundred reasons not to  proceed with the purchase, even though they have never actually seen the property ! Still the fact that we have now sold 250 of the 260 apartments that were put on the market in the project to date proves that we must be doing something right.”

Who are your typical clients, if such exist?

“The size of the land at Tigne Point is not very different to that of Mdina so, as you can imagine, there are many different styles and sizes of homes within the project. These range from one bed-roomed ‘loft style’ studio apartments to four bedroomed fully detached foreshore penthouses with sprawling terraces and private heated pools.  These, and everything in between, have their own markets and potential buyers. The one thing these homes have in common is the convenience factor of this unique destination and the fact that we aim to make them the best properties within their respective categories.”    

What do clients in search for a luxury property look out for today?

 “One has to remember that most of the buyers for the large seafront apartments are coming from big houses and grand villas and are used to space, light and comfortable layouts. Many of our foreshore apartments are in fact very large by Maltese standards and absolutely enormous compared to flats abroad. The south side of the development is unique in that we built only large apartments on the waterfront. The average apartment size is some 250m2 and some penthouses are 650m2. Many of these have huge terraces for entertaining, high ceilings and lots of light – in fact practically all of them are semi-detached.  We have often been told that we have built flats for people who don’t normally like flats. Over the years we have placed more emphasis on the designer elements in our internal specifications and the T10 experience to date proves that this has been very well received.”