Hi,
First of all a big hello to everyone I'm new to this forum and will be moving to Malta with my partner in 1 week :-)
We're super excited and I've been (silently) reading threads on accommodation including tips and warnings. My check list of things to look out / ask for when viewing apartments is getting longer and longer!
1. I was wondering if anyone can give current advice on decent letting agents for the Sliema/Msida area? I've read good things about Quicklets and Relocate Malta - has anyone had a recent experience with them? Also, is December a good time for renting? Since it's not peak season could we even negotiate on the rent? How easy is it to get viewings in the weeks before Christmas?
2. My partner will be working in Birkirkara (near Psaila) and I'm interviewing for roles in Sliema. I have researched areas and buses for a while now and found the area near the Lidl in Santa Venera and the Junior College in Msida to be the best. My question: Is this a nice area? We have no car so need to be close to a cheap supermarket and bf needs to be able to walk to work in case the buses are full/don't come/etc. If not, any other recommendations?
3. Lastly, is it true about penthouses being too damp and cold in the winter and too hot in the summer? Any other negatives perhaps? I'm somehow fixated on renting a penthouse since I hate noise from upstairs neighbours. The last 5 years in the UK and Ireland I've had to endure anti-social neighbours, I'm terrified of another bad experience. Is Msida a noisy area i.e. constant parties in apartment blocks, musicians drumming day and night, etc.? Or are people generally more considerate on the island?
Sorry for all these questions and thanks in advance for the help
Melanie