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Malta has just introduced a new scheme designed to make owning a sustainable home more appealing – and more affordable. Called Ixtri Proprjetà Sostenibbli (Buy Sustainable Property), the scheme encourages people to invest in homes that are built or upgraded with energy efficiency in mind. If you’re planning to buy a property in Malta, this is an opportunity worth exploring as you could be in for some substantial savings!
The government is offering grants ranging from €4,500 to €9,000, depending on how energy-efficient your chosen property is. These grants are spread over three years and aim to reward those who make environmentally responsible choices. Whether you’re buying a brand-new apartment with solar panels or a restored townhouse that meets modern efficiency standards, you could qualify for this financial support.
Why it matters
Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword – it’s quickly becoming one of the most important factors in real estate globally. Energy-efficient homes tend to be more comfortable, have lower utility bills and lastly hold their value better over time. With the support of this new scheme, buying such a home in Malta has never made more sense.
It is time to be part of Malta’s greener future
This initiative forms part of Malta’s wider 2050 Vision – a roadmap for becoming a carbon-neutral country. Buildings are among the biggest energy users in Malta, so making them more efficient is a vital part of reducing the country’s overall emissions.
By supporting sustainable property purchases, the government is helping to shift the entire real estate market toward greener building practices. In turn, this encourages developers to include sustainable materials and energy systems from the very beginning of the design and construction process.
How does the scheme work?
The grant amount is linked to the property’s energy performance certificate (EPC). The better the rating, the higher the grant. If the home you’re buying achieves top-level energy efficiency, you could receive the full €9,000. Properties with decent but slightly lower ratings still qualify for support, just at a reduced amount.
Importantly, this scheme covers both new builds and renovated homes – so you don’t need to limit your search to one category. It’s also a good incentive for buyers to consider retrofitted properties that have been upgraded to meet current efficiency standards.
More good news
Buyers of Net Zero properties that qualify for the new grant can also combine it with already existing incentives, including:
* The €10,000 grant for first-time buyers
* The exemption from stamp duty on the first €200,000 of the property’s value
Depending on the buyer’s eligibility and the property’s energy rating, the total financial benefit could add up to as much as €30,000.
Finer points: what buyers should know about the scheme
* Eligibility is limited to a property being used as a main residence
Only properties intended as your primary home qualify. Holiday homes and buy-to-let investments are excluded.
* Grants are paid out in instalments over three years
The full amount (€4,500 or €9,000) is disbursed in three yearly payments. You must retain ownership and reside in the property throughout this period to receive all instalments.
* Application for the scheme can only be done after the Final Deed of Sale
You can only apply once the final contract is signed. Submissions made earlier – even with provisional EPCs – won’t be accepted.
* Updated EPC required for renovated properties
For converted or upgraded homes, the EPC must reflect the post-renovation state. Certificates based on outdated layouts or previous use won’t be valid.
* Not all homes can provide EPCs
Be aware that properties in Urban Conservation Areas (UCA) or heritage zones might be exempt from full EPC requirements. Without a valid EPC, these homes are not eligible – regardless of their real-world efficiency.
* Non-EU nationals face extra conditions
Third-country nationals may need an AIP permit or long-term residence status unless a property is in a Special Designated Area. Simply purchasing the property isn’t enough to qualify.
* Limited timeframe for eligibility
The scheme only covers homes purchased between 1 January and 30 September 2025. Transactions outside these dates fall outside the scope of the grant. If you want to look at the finer details, FAQs, the process of application or want to download the application form, have a look on the government’s website here.
Where Frank Salt Real Estate fits in
Finding a sustainable property and figuring out whether it qualifies for this scheme may feel overwhelming at first. That’s where Frank Salt Real Estate can make all the difference. With over 56 years of experience and a reputation for excellence, our team is ready to guide you through the process.
We take a holistic approach to property – meaning we don’t just help you find a home, we offer a full circle of services. From identifying energy-efficient homes and explaining the EPC system, to putting you in touch with trusted notaries and assisting with documentation for the grant application, we’re with you every step of the way.
Our consultants are fully up to speed on what qualifies under the “Buy Sustainable Property” scheme. We work closely with developers and architects across Malta and Gozo who are committed to sustainable building practices, so we can match you with a property that fits both your lifestyle, environmental values and lastly ones that qualify for the scheme.
Are you ready to explore all of the benefits and schemes that are available?
If you’re ready to take the next step, or just want to learn more about how you could benefit from this scheme, reach out to our team at Frank Salt Real Estate. We’re here to help you find a Malta property that works for both you and the planet!
