Does perception play a role in defining property prices?

Although tiny, Malta often gets divided into ‘the North’ and ‘the South’ – but does this apply to real estate market when buying or selling your property?

2009 National Statistics study

Back in 2009, a National Statistics Office study confirmed that the divide in Malta between ‘the North’ and ‘the South’ was not only something perceived in the minds of the islanders, but an actual divide that related to the number of single and unmarried parents, the number of people on unemployment benefits, the number of low-income earners and where they lived.

In more ways than one, the eternal discourse surrounding ‘the North’ and ‘the South’ had finally found some scientific grounding, but many can still argue that this divide, in reality, does not exist. Meanwhile, can divide as such effect the Maltese real estate market in any way? And, if yes, how so?

Perception

If an area where you are trying to sell your property is perceived to be less desirable than somewhere else then the property price in that location will automatically be perceived to be lower, and less desirable. This is not to say that ‘the South’ is less desirable than ‘the North’, or vice-versa but if people perceive it so, then buyers are less likely to go shopping for property there, thus halting the economic growth of an area where property developers will show less interest in building and forcing sellers in that particular area to lower prices. 

Location

This will always be one of the main factors that affect a home’s price tag when selling your property, but the problem with the location is that it is created not only by the geographical position of a place but also, more importantly, its perception. Nevertheless, it is common knowledge that recent developments such as St. Angelo Mansions, Cottonera embellishments, as well as many other developments located in Birgu and Marsaskala have created a huge stimulus in this Market. Ta Monita is a very sought-after property development in the South.

Neighbourhood

Neighbours and neighbourhoods can have a massive impact on whether someone actually buys a house there or not. People tend to purchase a property close to their friends or where their social circle think of as being ‘adequate’ – markets can be divided within a town as well. The exact same apartments for sale located 500 metres apart in Sliema may also be priced differently. Explore apartments for sale in Sliema on our property database.

Prices

Until a few years ago, prices of terraced houses for sale in certain areas of ‘the North’ were much higher than those in the most desirable areas of ‘the South’ – but this has, to some extent, changed. Finding a gorgeous farmhouse or seafront penthouse in ‘the South’ is easier than most people might think and they might actually cost more than some high-end places in ‘the North’. Price tags add to a property and an area’s allure, and that drives buyers to move to formerly less-desirable areas.

Why choose an estate agent to sell your property? 

It is always recommended to seek advice from a professional real estate agent when selling your property or before buying a home in Malta or Gozo. Without an estate agent, you’ll never know what’s planned to be built next door, or what you may expect until you move into your new dwelling. Professionally trained estate agents like our RE/MAX Malta property agents, have resources to check planning permits, understand markets and will guide you through each process. Learn more about the benefits of choosing an estate agent to sell any type of property on the island.