As Frank Salt Real Estate continues to expand its reach with new branches in various parts of the island, Jo Caruana gains expert advice from three Frank Salt consultants as to the best property investments to make across Malta.

The rules of property investment are changing.

Today, those keen to invest aren’t limited to purchasing property in the areas that traditionally ensured a return. Today, Malta promises a world of possibilities, with increased demand for residential and commercial spaces in both the south and the north. In fact, it is here that potential has grown most exponentially.

In response to that demand, Frank Salt Real Estate has boosted its presence in the south, with a new branch scheduled to open its doors in Cospicua, as well as a larger branch in Fgura and the ongoing development of the well-established Marsascala branch. This will give the company increased expertise in the area, with over 20 consultants working across the south of Malta.

“The south is more in demand than ever before,” says Marsascala branch manager Omar Xuereb.

“Marsascala is definitely the area that’s most sought-after at the moment, quickly followed by the Three Cities, Kalkara and Xgħajra.”

Mr Xuereb believes there are many reasons why the south has experienced such a spike in demand but stresses that the region’s unique character is still its most attractive asset. “

Potential buyers love the personality found here – from the backstreet houses of character, to the smart apartments with open views of the sea; there’s something for everyone and for everybudget.”

Among the most popular developments is Ta’ Monita – a special designated area that, while modern, blends beautifully with its surroundings. Other developments are also planned to showcase the best of the region, including the ex-Jerma Palace Hotel and a further 20 new sites being developed in Marsascala alone.

“Kalkara and Smart City have really become gems of the south, while Xgħajra continues to wow as one of the most unspoilt parts of the island. I truly believe that this beautiful seafront village will continue to become more and more popular with developers and investors in the years to come,” Mr Xuereb continues.

“Now really is the time to seek out opportunities here.”

Meanwhile, up north, there are also increasing opportunities for investment.

“The north has so much to offer, both from an urban and a rural perspective,” says Patrick Xuereb, Frank Salt Real Estate’s northern regional manager.

“For instance, those eager to enjoy the area’s natural treasures will be impressed by the abundance of archeological remains and natural landscaping found here, as well as sites such as the Park tal-Majjistral, which is a six-kilometre stretch of coastline dedicated to conservation as per the European Habitats Directive. But there’s so much more to the region too, including some of the country’s best restaurants, bars and leisure facilities. All of this adds so much value to what the north has to offer,” Mr Xuereb smiles.

He goes on to explain that the north is also renowned for having the best sandy beaches, including Mellieħa Bay, Ġnejna Bay and Paradise Bay.

“This makes living in the north an attraction in its own right and it’s ideal for couples, families and those on the hunt for a holiday home.”

The north has certainly secured its reputation with both local and foreign buyers, while its many draws have ensured it guarantees a good return on any property acquired in the area – whether by way of capital appreciation or rental investment.

“The affordability of the north, coupled with the very high standards of finishing promised by the new and upcoming developments here, make it a very safe option whatever you’re looking for,” Mr Xuereb continues.

“And, at Frank Salt Real Estate, we were certainly quick to understand that; we have two very established branches in St Paul’s Bay and Mellieħa, both of which are backed by consultants with 18 years experience in this part of the island.”

As for commercial property, there are also increasing investment opportunities in the north and south.

Rita Schembri, Patrick Xuereb (centre) and Omar Xuereb.

“In the south, Smart City, for instance, is now 90 per cent occupied and plans are in place to build several new blocks so as to create further office space here,” explains Rita Schembri, Frank Salt Real Estate’s commercial properties manager.

“Increased activity at the Freeport has also upped the demand for more commercial property in the south; we have already witnessed increased demand for warehousing projects in and around the Freeport region.”

New business sectors have also created fresh demands. “For instance, the aviation industry has crafted niche opportunities for those with commercial properties in and around Luqa,” continues Ms Schembri.

“This has, in turn, also upped the need for residential property in this area as people – and especially foreigners – are eager to live as close to their workplace as possible.”

Meanwhile, the north is also experiencing a revival from a commercial perspective, with ‘huge’ demand for restaurants, hotels and guesthouses.

“Well-priced properties of this sort are usually sold or leased within days of coming on to the market. This is all down to the increased number of tourist arrivals, which has created more opportunities for those eager to open a business in this part of the island. Plus, office space in the north is also sought-offer,” Ms Schembri says.

“This is thanks to the increased number of foreign residents choosing to buy in the north and their need for office space to be close by.

“Wherever people are based in Malta, the trends clearly show that they want to live and work within easy distances, so this is creating demand for commercial properties in places we haven’t really seen it before. This is a trend that I expect to continue.”

So, commercial or residential, the choice in Malta really is plentiful and the investment opportunities exciting. All that remains to be seen is: will you go north or south?

Top Tips: Investing in the North and South

• The south: Thinking of purchasing a property down south? Marsascala branch manager Omar Xuereb thinks you’re on to a winner: “There’s so much available to you here, including character houses, traditional Mediterranean living and great budget buys. Property prices here are still the cheapest anywhere on the island, so you can invest today and make an excellent return within just a few years.”

• The north: Hoping to move up north? Frank Salt’s northern branch manager Patrick Xuereb shares his suggestions for successful investment opportunities here: The north really does offer the best possible options for capital return as demand always exceeds supply. But, aside from invest benefits, the north is also a really great place to live with something for everyone – from the cosmopolitan allure of St Paul’s Bay to traditional Maltese life in Mellieħa.

“Whatever the decision you take, you will be making a sound investment in the north and we will be more than willing to help you find your perfect property.”