The Psychology of a Sea View: Why It Sells (and Heals)

There’s something about the sea that does something to you. You know what I mean? 

I’ve lived in Saranda for most of my adult life, and even after all these years, I still catch myself stopping mid-step just to take in the way the sunlight dances on the water in the morning. The Ionian has that kind of effect—it calms you, pulls you in. And as someone who works in real estate here on the Albanian Riviera, I’ve learned this: sea views don’t just sell. They heal . 

Last week, I showed a client a stunning property in Ksamil—top floor, full panoramic sea view, total peace. The second she stepped out onto the balcony, she just stood there in silence, hand on her chest, eyes wide. Then she whispered, “This is it.” And I thought, Yes. This is why I love this job. 

It’s not just about square meters or modern kitchens (though those help). It’s about how a place makes you feel . And nothing does that quite like a seaview. 

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There’s science behind it (but we already knew that) 

Psychologists have studied this, actually. Being near water—especially when you can see it—has been linked to lower stress levels, better mental clarity, and even improved sleep. They call it “blue mind” and it’s all about how the brain enters a mildly meditative state when you’re close to the sea. 

But I didn’t need a study to tell me that. I’ve watched clients walk into a Saranda apartment for sale, glance out the window, and visibly exhale. You can literally see their shoulders drop. 

There’s this one luxury villa in Saranda that I always love showing off because of its uninterrupted sea view. Here it is, if you’re curious . The light in the late afternoon hits just right, and I swear you can hear the waves even from the upstairs bedroom. It’s magic. 

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The sea makes everything feel possible 

I’ve met couples who came here for a weekend and ended up putting down a deposit on a beachfront property by Tuesday. It’s not impulsive—it’s emotional. When you stand in a place where you can see the sea, the world feels bigger. Problems feel smaller. Suddenly, owning a holiday home, or even moving here full-time, doesn’t feel like a dream. It feels like the next logical step. 

And honestly, who can blame them? 

The thing is, the Albanian Riviera has something you don’t find in other Mediterranean spots anymore: real value. I truly believe Saranda offers the best balance of affordability and natural beauty on the whole coast. Where else can you find seaview apartments under €150,000 just a few minutes from a UNESCO World Heritage site? 

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The small moments matter most 

I always tell people—don’t just think about the balcony. Think about your mornings. 

Can you imagine waking up, making a strong Albanian coffee (the way my grandmother taught me, with a pinch of sugar and a heavy hand), stepping outside barefoot, and seeing that endless blue? 

It’s more than a view. It’s a lifestyle. 

The view becomes your backdrop for every little thing: your breakfast, your phone calls, even your arguments (trust me, it’s hard to stay mad when you’re looking at the sea). That kind of peace gets under your skin in the best way. 

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A quick detour about Borsh (because I can’t help myself)

Okay—I know we’re talking about the psychology of sea views, but I need to take a tiny tangent.

Borsh. If you haven’t been, go. It’s one of those places that still feels untouched. Olive trees, long pebbled beaches, and a tiny taverna just past the main road that serves the best grilled fish you’ve ever had. No frills, just flavor.

We have a collection of luxury villas for sale in Borsh, each with its own view of the sea and the mountains beyond. I love bringing clients there because they don’t expect it. You can see it on their faces—the how does this still exist? moment.

Then they ask the big question: “Can I live here year-round?”

Short answer: Yes. Long answer: Yes, and you’ll love it.

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Not all sea views are created equal

Here’s where being a local helps. Some views look good in photos but don’t hit the same in person. The best ones? They shift throughout the day. Morning light, sunset glow, stormy days—they all bring something different. There’s an apartment I know just off Rruga Butrinti that catches the most unbelievable golden hour reflections across the water. You wouldn’t know unless you were standing there at just the right time.

Also, orientation matters. South-facing balconies are gold here. You get the sun, but not too much. And if you can find a place where you hear the sea and smell it when the breeze comes in—that’s the jackpot.

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Locals know what sells (and what sticks)

I’ve helped people buy their first vacation apartment and then, five years later, find a bigger place because they ended up moving here full-time. That’s the pattern: you come for the sea view… and stay for everything else.

But you never stop loving the view.

We Albanians, we grow up with a kind of deep appreciation for nature. My uncle used to say that the sea teaches patience. It moves at its own rhythm. You can’t rush it, and you can’t ignore it either. There’s a kind of wisdom in that.

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So—should you only buy a property with a sea view?

Honestly? No. Some of the best affordable properties in Saranda are a few streets back from the coast. They’re quieter, more budget-friendly, and still close to the beach.

But if you can find one with a proper view—one that feels right—don’t overthink it. Grab it.

Because views like that don’t just sit on the market. They speak to people. They sell faster. They rent better. And they age well. No one ever regrets waking up to the sea.

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Final thoughts (and a little advice)

If you’re thinking about buying here, don’t just look at the listings. Come see for yourself. Walk along the promenade in the early evening. Listen to the way people greet each other (we Albanians love a good chat). Feel the breeze. Take it in.

Then come find me—and I’ll show you the kind of places where you’ll fall in love not just with the property… but with the view.

Because in the end, it’s not just about investing in a house. It’s about investing in your peace of mind.

And if that peace happens to come with a sea view?

Even better.