Step 1 — Choose your area and set your budget

The first thing to establish is where you want to live. Malta is a small island, but getting around by bus can take considerably longer than expected, especially during peak hours. Choosing a property close to your workplace and daily essentials — shops, supermarkets, restaurants — will make a real difference to your quality of life.

Budget is equally important. As a general rule: the closer you are to central areas like Sliema, Gzira and St. Julian's, the higher the rent. If you're not sure which area suits you best, read our guide Where to Live in Malta.

Step 2 — Find your property

Once you've chosen your area and budget, you can start your search. In Malta, Facebook Marketplace and Maltapark are popular platforms — but our recommendation is to work with a trusted real estate agent. An experienced agent knows the market, can negotiate the price on your behalf, and often has access to properties that never appear online.

Why use an agent

At Sweet Home Real Estate, we take our clients' needs seriously. We offer a transparent, professional service that guarantees peace of mind throughout the process — for both rentals and sales. We make it easier.

Step 3 — Move fast and bring a deposit

The rental market in Malta moves quickly. Once you've found a property you like, be ready to reserve it immediately — ideally on the same day as the viewing. Always bring a deposit with you when viewing properties, or you risk losing the opportunity.

Malta rental process
How the security deposit works

The deposit is typically equivalent to one month's rent, though it can sometimes be two. The landlord holds this amount until the end of the agreement. If you leave the property in good condition, the full deposit is returned. It cannot be used to cover monthly rent payments.

Step 4 — Sign the agreement

The most common rental agreement in Malta is a long private residential lease of one year. You can download a standard template below for reference.

Download — Long Private Residential Lease template

At the time of signing, you will pay the first month's rent in advance and the agency fee. At Sweet Home Real Estate, our standard fee is 50% of one month's rent plus 18% VAT — a one-time payment.

1

Choose area & budget

Define where you want to live and how much you can spend per month.

2

Search with an agent

Work with a trusted agency to access the best properties and get expert guidance.

3

Reserve immediately

Bring a deposit to viewings — the market moves fast and good properties go quickly.

4

Sign & move in

Pay first month + agency fee at signing. The deposit is held until the end of the lease.