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One of the first decisions renters face in Malta: do I choose furnished or unfurnished properties to let?
Choosing between furnished vs unfurnished rentals is one of the first practical questions newcomers and locals ask when looking for a home in Malta. The answer depends on lifestyle, length of stay and budget. This article offers a clear comparison, practical examples and on-the-ground insights from Philippa Tabone, Letting Division Manager at Frank Salt Real Estate’s Letting Division, so you can decide what fits you best.
What furnished and unfurnished really mean in Malta
In Malta, the terms are generally straightforward but the content behind them varies.
What’s included in a ‘furnished’ rental
A furnished rental typically means that it comes with beds, sofas, dining table and chairs, basic white goods such as fridge, cooker and washing machine and window coverings such as curtains or blinds. In most instances it will also include air-conditioning. Some landlords also include cutlery, cookware and small appliances. The exact inventory should always be listed in the tenancy agreement to avoid disputes over deposits and what is acceptable wear and tear. Listings and letting agents often categorise properties either by “furnished”, “part-furnished” or “unfurnished”.
If a property is furnished, it means that a tenant only needs to bring their clothes and other personal belongings to start living here. It is important to note that if you are renting long-term, you will need to transfer the utilities and WiFi into your own name.
Levels: basic vs semi vs fully furnished
- Basic furnished – essential furniture and major appliances only.
- Semi furnished – essentials plus extras such as a TV stand, wardrobes or some soft furnishings.
- Fully furnished – everything you need to move in as the above, including kitchenware and white goods/linens.
Market trends: which is more popular?
Across Malta’s rentals market, furnished units are in the majority standing at 66% according to a 2021 census of Population and Housing. Short to medium term lets, student accommodation and most listings aimed at expats are usually offered furnished to lower experiencing any inconveniences when moving in. Local listings consistently show that furnished options outnumber unfurnished ones. Have a look at what’s available for rent here.
Who prefers unfurnished – and why?
Some tenants prefer unfurnished properties because they want to personalise the space and already own furniture. While it’s a common assumption that those who relocate to Malta long-term (for example retirees, expats, diplomats) always bring their own furniture, most leases will be marketed as furnished. Landlords who prefer to enter into stable, longer term lease may be willing to consider renting a property out as unfurnished upon request. Always check your contract and expectations before signing.
Pros and cons for tenants
Cost
Furnished rentals generally command a premium because the landlord bears the interior cost and associated maintenance. However, the upfront savings for tenants who do not need to buy furniture can outweigh the higher monthly rent.
Flexibility
- Furnished: move-in ready, ideal for expats, students and professionals on short assignments.
- Unfurnished: better for long-term residents who want to customise and potentially save on long-run rental costs or where you prefer to have your own furniture, appliances and more.
Convenience
Many first-time renters choose furnished properties precisely because they reduce the added stress of having to make a rental property liveable. For someone landing in Malta with a suitcase, a furnished flat is a practical and time-saving option.
Personalisation
For families or locals who prefer to have their own possessions in a property and who are planning to stay several years, unfurnished properties allow for personalisation and having familiar items around. So, if you want full creative control over interiors, unfurnished is the answer. But remember that bringing your own furniture involves transport costs and storage logistics that can work out to be significant. Savvy tenants often balance those costs against the monthly rental differential.
Pros and cons for landlords
Maintenance
Furnished properties need more active maintenance and periodic replacement of furniture and appliances due to normal wear and tear. Expect higher turnover work and the occasional dispute over damaged items.
Turnover
Furnished lets often attract shorter tenancies and more frequent tenant changeovers. That can increase marketing and cleaning costs but also allows landlords to reset rent to market levels more regularly.
Rental yield differences
Because furnished flats typically rent for higher monthly sums, landlords can achieve better short-term yields. However these gains may be offset by faster depreciation of furniture and higher management costs. Your listing strategy should align with risk tolerance and whether you as a landlord want long-term stability or higher short-term returns.
Shifts in the market
Growing furnished options: expat demand, students, short-stays
Malta’s buoyant economy attracts a score of foreign professionals and additionally the high student population mean there is steady demand for move-in ready accommodation. The growth of professional short-let management and holiday let platforms has encouraged owners to furnish units to capture tourist and corporate demand. Frank Salt Real Estate’s Malta Holiday Lets is one dedicated arm that manages short-lets and helps owners navigate the short-term market while maximising occupancy.
Influence of short-term rental platforms
Short-let platforms have nudged some landlords to furnish and stage units more carefully to earn higher nightly or monthly rates. This trend has raised standards across the market, making furnished apartments more attractive for renters who value quality and convenience.
“Renters in Malta usually go for furnished because…”
Move-in ease: students arriving for the semester, young professionals on a fixed-term contract and executives on secondment often opt for furnished flats to avoid the hassle of buying and shipping furniture.
Expert view and practical checklist
Insights from Philippa Tabone, Rentals Division Manager
Philippa Tabone and our team at Frank Salt Real Estate’s Letting Division work with a broad mix of tenants and landlords and see the patterns clearly: furnished lets suit mobility and short- to medium-term stays; unfurnished properties appeal to tenants wanting stability and a bespoke home although the unfurnished choice is in the minority. Her best tips are advising tenants to request a detailed inventory and for landlords to price wisely, maintain clear check-in and check-out procedures and insure items appropriately.
Quick Checklist Recap
When furnished makes sense
- You are an expat, student or short-term assignee.
• You value convenience over customisation.
• You want a quick move with minimal logistics.
When unfurnished makes sense
- You plan to stay three years or more and want to tailor finishes.
• You already own good-quality furniture and want to avoid rental premiums.
• As a landlord you prefer long-term stability rather than frequent tenant turnover.
How Frank Salt Real Estate can help
Frank Salt Real Estate has a full service offering what we term as our holistic circle of services:
Property services
- Buying and selling homes across Malta and Gozo
- Short-lets through Malta Holiday Lets for newcomers who want temporary accommodation before committing
- Long-term rentals in all areas and property types
- Access to exclusive developments and special designated areas
- Home interior and design services to make a new property move-in ready
- Property Management services if you buy a property and want to rent it out in your absence or simply want to have it managed.
- A Commercial Division dedicated to helping business owners who want to set up a business in Malta.
Relocation and lifestyle services
We provide support that extends well beyond finding a home or business premises:
- Assistance with tax and legal matters through trusted partners.
- Relocation services and guidance on residency programmes and paperwork.
- Client services team to support ongoing needs after the move, access to a network of contacts for schools, healthcare and everyday services.
By working with Frank Salt Real Estate, newcomers can reduce stress, save time and feel secure knowing that every aspect of their relocation is handled by professionals familiar with both local regulations and expatriate concerns.
This integrated approach will smooth the transition from tenant to eventually becoming a homeowner while keeping local market specifics in focus.
Conclusion
Choosing between furnished vs unfurnished rentals in Malta should not be seen as challenging: it offers you the choice of convenience and immediate move-in readiness or the freedom to personalise your home and potentially save on long-term costs. Start by asking: how long will you stay, how much do you already own and how important is flexibility? Always get the inventory in writing, be realistic about your budget and match the property type and location to your planned length of stay. If you need tailored support in making the right decision, contact us!
