Your Complete List of Support Schemes for Buying Your First Property in Malta 

Buying your first home is a milestone that marks both financial independence and a new chapter in life. Yet for many, the initial costs can feel like an impossible hurdle. The good news is that Malta offers several schemes to help first-time buyers reduce the burden and take that important step. 

At PLAN Homes, we know that buying a property isn’t just about bricks and mortar; it’s about building your future. That’s why we’ve created this guide: a one-stop shop of every support scheme available right now, complete with links to official sources and practical tips on how these benefits can fit into your buying journey

1) First-Time Buyer Scheme 

The First-Time Buyer Scheme has now been entrenched into law, meaning it’s no longer a temporary or renewable measure — it’s here to stay. This long-term commitment gives buyers greater confidence and stability when planning their property purchase.

The scheme continues to offer financial relief of €10,000 spread over 10 years. If you purchased your first property after 1 January 2022, you can receive €1,000 annually to help with expenses like home loans, insurance, or even finishing costs.

A new change now allows individuals who previously purchased non-residential property, such as a garage or commercial unit, to still qualify for the scheme when buying their first residential home.

This steady support is designed for the first crucial years after purchase, giving buyers breathing space as they adjust to new financial commitments.

Learn more about the First-Time Buyer Scheme.  

2) 10% Deposit Scheme  

One of the biggest obstacles for young buyers is saving up the deposit. Normally, you’ll need around 10% of the property price upfront when signing the promise of sale. The 10% Deposit Scheme was created to remove that roadblock. 

• It’s open to first-time buyers aged 21 to 39. 

• You can take a personal loan from a local bank to cover the deposit. 

• The loan is repayable over 25 years. 

• Best of all, the Housing Authority covers the interest on that loan for the full term or until repayment. 

In practice, this means you’re only paying back the deposit amount itself, interest-free. For example, if your deposit is €25,000, you repay €25,000 in manageable instalments without any additional cost. 

As of Budget 2026, the maximum property value eligible under this scheme has been raised from €225,000 to €250,000, giving more buyers access to suitable homes in today’s market.

The government has also announced ongoing discussions with banks to make it easier for low-income individuals to access social loans when purchasing their first home.

Learn more about the 10% Deposit Scheme. 

3) First-Time Buyers Stamp Duty Exemption  

Stamp duty in Malta is typically 5% of the property’s market value, which can add up quickly. Under the First-Time Buyers Stamp Duty Exemption, you won’t pay stamp duty on the first €200,000 of your property price. 

That’s a potential saving of up to €10,000; money that can instead go towards your furniture, finishing works, or simply reducing the overall financial pressure. 

To qualify: 

• You must not have owned any property in Malta or Gozo before. 

• The home must be your sole residence. 

• The promise of sale and final contract must be published within the scheme’s validity period (currently until the end of 2025). 

Learn more about Stamp Duty Exemptions. 

4) Grant for First-Time Buyers 

Beyond the standard schemes, there’s extra support available if you buy specific types of property: 

• Homes in an Urban Conservation Area (UCA). 

• Properties that are over 20 years old and vacant for more than 7 years. 

• New builds that meet government-approved guidelines. 

The grants are substantial: 

• Up to €15,000 for properties in Malta. 

• Up to €40,000 for properties in Gozo (for deeds signed after 1 January 2024). 

These incentives not only help buyers but also encourage the regeneration of older homes and village cores, as well as sustainable new development. 

Learn more about the Grant for First-Time Buyers. 

5) Grant on First Residence  

Buying your first home is only part of the journey – finishing, furnishing, or even extending it is often the bigger challenge. The Grant on First Residence helps cover these costs: 

• Receive up to €5,824 for finishing or construction works. 

• An extra €1,165 is available for properties built before 1990. 

• Families expanding their home due to new members can also apply for alterations support. 

This scheme ensures that first-time owners can move beyond just buying the property and actually make it liveable and suited to their lifestyle. 

Learn more about the Grant on First Residence. 

6) Equity Sharing Scheme 

The Housing Authority has expanded the Equity Sharing Scheme and now welcomes applicants aged 25 and over (previously 30). Under this arrangement, the buyer provides half the property price while the Housing Authority funds the remaining half, to be repaid over 20 years — interest-free.

This change aims to help people in the 25–30 age group, who often struggle to secure a loan because of limited savings or job history.

For separated individuals purchasing a new home, the property value limit under this scheme has also increased to €350,000.

Learn more about the Equity Sharing Scheme.

How PLAN Homes Supports First-Time Buyersoperty Investment 

Government support schemes are powerful, but applying for them and combining the right benefits can feel complex. This is where PLAN Homes comes in. 

Our role is not only to build quality homes but also to guide buyers every step of the way. With us, you’ll have: 

• Clear advice on which schemes apply to your situation. 

• Guidance on eligibility and how to prepare the right documentation. 

• Properties tailored to first-time buyers, with options that qualify under different grants. 

• Practical support connecting you with banks, notaries, and professionals to make the process smoother. 

Buying your first property is not just a transaction…it’s a milestone that shapes your future. At PLAN Homes, we make sure you can focus on the excitement of becoming a homeowner, while we take the stress out of the process. 

Ready to start your journey? Get in touch with PLAN Homes today, and let’s turn your dream of owning your first home into reality.