Who Benefits & Key Measures
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First-Time Buyers Support
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The 10-year grant of €1,000/year for first-time buyers is retained and made permanent.
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The Housing Authority’s deposit assistance scheme will now apply to properties valued up to €250,000 (up from €225,000).
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First-time buyer status is expanded: owners of non-residential property (e.g., a garage or field) are still eligible when buying their first home.
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Urban Conservation Area (UCA)
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Retention of scheme for another year. If a property is found within UCA, the purchaser and vendor will not pay any stamp duty or final withholding tax up to €750,000
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Equity Sharing Scheme Expanded
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Eligibility age is lowered from 30 to 25 years.
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For separated individuals, the maximum property purchase value under the scheme is increased to €350,000.
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Under this scheme, the Housing Authority co-owns half the property, and the buyer repays the Authority’s share over ~20 years.
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Inheritance / Succession Planning
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Reduced stamp duty rate of 3.5% on inherited residential property now applies to the first €400,000 of value (was €200,000 before).
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This applies when the inheritor already lives in the property as their own residence.
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Property Market Transparency
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A public Property Price Register is to be launched by the Property Malta Foundation, giving access to real transaction data and improving market transparency.
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Why These Measures Matter
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Increased Affordability: The expansion of first-time buyer support and equity sharing lowers the barrier to homeownership, especially for young adults and those with limited initial savings.
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Better Succession Planning: A Higher inheritance duty threshold helps families keep their homes within the family, reducing financial burden.
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Social Housing Focus: Large public investment signals strong government commitment to making housing more accessible, not just for buyers but also renters.
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More Transparency: The property price register empowers buyers, sellers, and real estate pros to make better-informed decisions.
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Sustainable Development: Encouraging green buildings aligns with long-term environmental goals and may boost future property value.
