Compare Open Agency Fees
Sensara vs Realestate Agency
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Some small offices fees vary. Please contact your agent for specific rates and VAT inclusion. (5%+vat=5.9%)
Expenses associated with the purchase of property include.
1. Agency Fee (Open Agency Agreement)
Real Estate Franchises normaly Changes 5%+vat=5.9% (Buyer Only).
Sensara (Broker) (1%+vat to Buyer) and (1%+vat to Seller)
The advantage of the sensara being paid separately is that the buyer’s fee won’t be added to the property price, which would otherwise increase the taxes. (Sensara is the Maltese word for traditional broker.)
It doesn’t make sense for the buyer and vendor to be taxed on the agency fee as part of the property price.
Some small offices fees vary. Please contact your agent for specific rates and VAT inclusion.
2. Stamp Duty – Withholding tax (capital gains tax)
Buyer – Pays stamp duty (5% standard or reduced under certain exemptions. see section*3), with provisional 1% at promise-of-sale and balance at final deed.
Seller – Pays withholding tax/capital gains tax when selling — May vary depending (No tax, 5%, 8% or 10%)
(See section no. 2* more detailed rates)
First-time buyers benefit from a stamp duty exemption on the first €200,000.
Second-time buyers can get a refund on the first €86,000 used for their sole residence.
3. Promise of Sale (Konvenju) Deposit
When signing the promise of sale, buyer usually pay a 10% deposit, though this can vary by agreement. The notary typically holds the deposit until the final contract. If the buyer back out without a valid legal reason, the seller keeps the deposit. Unless subject to conditions (e.g. bank loan approval).
4. Notary Fees
Typically around 1% of the property value.
May vary depending on the complexity of the contract and research involved.
(See section no. 4* below for more detailed rates and the calculator.)
5. Architect/Surveyor Fees
Buyer – Optional, but highly recommended for a thorough property inspection.
Fees vary based on the scope of work and property size.
Seller – A site plan is required. You may provide one yourself, or order it from the Land Registry, signed by an architect [ Click here Link Land Regestery] – [ Click Here to Find an architect]
6. Bank & Loan Charges (if financing)
Loan processing fees (~0.5%–1% of loan amount).
Legal fees and insurance costs (life & property insurance).
Bank-appointed architect fees for valuations.
[ Click Here Loan Calculator + Banks ]
7. Registry, Search Fees, EPC
Minor charges related to title searches and land registry processing.
EPC Certificate – Seller costs – €170 – €190 Euros. Energy Performance Certificate [More info Link ]
Additional Information on the Above Topics.
2*. Sellers – Withholding tax (capital gains tax)
Property lived in 3 years+ is no tax for the vendor.
– if less than 5 years, at 5%
– if more than 5 years but after 01/01/2004, at 8%
– if before 31/12/2003, at 10%
First time buyer, no tax is paid on the first Euro 200K. (EU passport)
Standard 5% transfer duty applies to the excess.
3*. Exemption from Capital Gains Tax and Duty
Property Tax Incentives Extended to 2025
The government has extended several property-related schemes under Legal Notices 325 and 363 of 2024, including:
First-time buyers: Exemption on duty for transfers up to Dec 31, 2025 (docs by Feb 28, 2026).
Second-time buyers: Refund on duty up to €86,000 for sole residences (same deadlines).
Family business transfers: Reduced duty rates extended to Dec 31, 2025.
Vacant & UCA properties: Duty exemption on the first €750,000 extended; from Jan 1, 2025, storage properties are excluded.
Garages & traditional developments: Tax relief extended under specific conditions, with documentation due by Jan 31, 2026.
4*. Notary fees
Notary fees are regulated and generally consistent across the board. Notaries are public officials, so they do not compete on price. The fee is typically around 1% of the property value, though this can vary depending on the complexity of the research required and the number of contract extensions.
That 1% can also vary based on the type of transaction. For example, causa mortis involves inheritance matters, which may require additional work. It’s best to speak directly with a notary who can guide you based on your specific situation.
Link of Notary Malta Website Billing Calculator [ Click Here ]
Link of list of Notarty in Malta and Gozo [ Click Here ]
5*. AIP permit allows non-residents to buy proprety
– Costs €233 (one-time, non-refundable)
EU Citizens:
EU citizens who have lived in Malta continuously for 5 years can buy property freely. Those with less than 5 years’ residence can still buy their primary home or property for business use without a permit but need an AIP permit for a secondary residence.
Non-EU Citizens:
Non-EU citizens need an AIP permit to buy property, except in Special Designated Areas (SDAs), where no restrictions apply. SDAs are high-end developments ideal for investment by both EU and non-EU buyers.
