What to know about Terraced Houses in Malta

Terraced houses around the world are those that share walls with other properties on either side. They are built in a continuous row and are usually of the exact same size with identical interiors (but not always – the end terraces may be larger or smaller). I

f, however, you are looking to buy a terraced house in Malta, you will find they are more specific. Terraced houses here are usually between twenty and sixty years old, with at least three bedrooms, a small garden or backyard, and a garage. There are new builds too.

Built for family living

Introduced on the island as a style of housing after World War II, terraced houses make an ideal family home. They offer more spacious accommodation than the average Townhouse. When you look to buy a terraced house in Malta they are usually found in newly developed residential areas rather in the heart of a town. There is extensive family living space, most often with three bedrooms and two bathrooms and outdoor space to the front, rear, or side. There might be a driveway or an underlying garage. More upmarket developments can include special features like French doors, balconies, terraces, landscaped gardens, or a pool on the roof.

The interiors will include a mix of traditional and modern features. Some houses will be closed plan, while others will be a single space with features demarcating the rooms and there being doors only to the bedrooms and bathrooms. For example, in a terraced house with a lounge/dining room, there might be a Moorish-style archway connecting the two spaces. Bedrooms may feature built-in wardrobes or a simple open space.

An attractive option to buy or rent

There are excellent reasons to buy or rent a terraced house in Malta. One of them is the age of the property which is going to mean less maintenance and upkeep than a Townhouse in Valletta or an antique villa in Sliema. Terraced houses are the most popular types of housing being built: according to the Malta Environment and Planning Authority, terraced houses had the highest permit increase in 2018 of 43 per cent. This means there is a good choice of newer properties available. With subsidies introduced in 2018 and later, and the cessation of the means test for calculating rent subsidies, terraced houses are becoming increasingly more affordable for families to rent.

How to find Terraced Houses in Malta

Looking for a house begins with setting your ideal criteria. These include whether you are buying or renting, preferred location, price/budget, number of bedrooms etc. It is unlikely that you will find a property that ticks every box, but it is good to know in which criteria you are willing to compromise. Then, it is a case of deciding to do your own search or to use an estate agent. An estate agent can help you and guide you through the property process. They will also have knowledge of availability, including any new developments and developments in the pipeline.