Malta - British Expat Forum

Hello
Just joined the forum after having read lots of very interesting posts so I hope I'm posting in the right category.
I'm just about to retire and coming out to Malta next week for a look around with the intention of moving out permanently next year, renting at first before buying a property.
I like the sound of Gozo and think it might be just what I'm looking for.
As I am on my own, I shall probably be looking for an apartment but with the use of a roof or garden to lie on and have a read or do a bit of sun bathing.
I'm not really au fait with estate agent's terminology on websites so my question is: would I be looking for something with a 'penthouse' or 'terrace' or would it be a 'maisonette'? Also what does 'airspace' mean?
Thanks for any replies.
louisxp

Hi louisxp, welcome to the forum, and thank you on behalf of the animals at Gozo SPCA for becoming a premium member

penthouse - the top floor in a block of flats - they are generally smaller sized inside than lower floors, but with larger terraces - the problem with penthouses is that they tend to be hot in the summer and cold in the winter compared to lower floors, but with the upside of better views. They are also more likely to suffer from leaks. Being the penthouse doesn't necessarily mean you will have access to the roof, plus not all blocks of flats have lifts

maisonette - a place in a block, on one floor - an apartment really, but with your own entrance

terrace - a line of houses - can be detached or semi-detached

airspace - believe it or not, you can own a property, but not necessarily the airspace immediately above - someone else could build above you

there is a description of many of the types of housing on the following link

http://britishexpat.com/expatforum/malta/viewtopic.php?p=62409#62409

Thanks very much for that info mark. I feel better equipped to enter the fray!
regards louis

pleasure - I've added some more info to the link above