The Journey of an Investor: Buying, Renting, and Profiting in Albania

Investing in real estate is always an adventure, but when it involves Albania’s breathtaking coastline? Now you’re talking. Whether you want a cozy vacation home, a way to make some passive income by renting out your place, or you’re thinking about flipping for a profit later, Albania’s real estate market is buzzing—and it’s only getting better.

Here’s what you really need to know about buying, renting, and making money off property in Albania. No corporate speak, just the honest truth.

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1. Buying Property in Albania: The Basics

Why Albania?

So why should you care about Albania? Here’s the deal:

• The property prices are still super affordable compared to places like Greece and Italy.

• Tourism is off the charts, especially in Saranda and Ksamil, with people coming from all over to enjoy the beaches and vibe.

• The buying process is simple, and as a foreigner, you’re good to go—there are no crazy restrictions.

Where to Buy

Location is everything. Here are the best spots to check out:

• Saranda – This is the place if you want something developed and easy to rent out. It’s got the right mix of tourists and locals.

• Ksamil – This one’s the “hidden gem.” Prices and demand are rising, especially in summer.

• Vlora – It’s got that ferry connection to Italy and a lot of potential if you’re thinking long-term.

• Dhermi & Himara – Looking for something a little more luxurious? These are the spots for boutique villas with a view.

What’s It Gonna Cost?

• You can find a small apartment starting around €80,000. If you’re after something swanky like a villa, prices can easily go up to €500,000+.

• No property taxes if you’re living in the property yourself. If you’re renting it out, you’ll be taxed 15% on the rental income.

• The whole buying process is pretty straightforward. But having someone local, like us at Viva View, can save you a lot of time and headaches.

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2. Renting Out Your Property: Making Money While You Sleep

Once you’ve got your property, it’s time to let it make you some money. Renting out can be a sweet deal, especially during tourist season.

Short-Term Rentals (Airbnb & Booking.com)

• Summer is when you’ll see the big bucks. In Saranda and Ksamil, you can rent your place out for €100-300 a night.

• A well-furnished apartment by the beach could make you up to €15,000 just during the high season.

• Don’t want to deal with booking and check-ins? There are property managers who’ll take care of all of that for you.

Long-Term Rentals

• While not as seasonal, long-term rentals bring in steady cash, especially from expats or digital nomads who want a place to call home.

• A decent apartment in Saranda could go for €400-800 a month.

Pro Tip: Want to boost your rental income? A modern, stylish place will always stand out. Trust me, people are willing to pay more for a comfy, chic space.

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3. Maximizing Your Returns: Turning Your Investment Into Profit

Property Value Growth

Albania’s property values have been on the rise, particularly along the coast. If you bought in Saranda a few years ago, you’ve likely seen your investment grow by 40-60%.

Flipping Properties

If you’re looking for quicker returns, consider buying off-plan and flipping the property once it’s ready. New builds are priced lower at first but typically go up once completed.

Long-Term Gains

With Albania’s EU candidate status and improvements to infrastructure, property prices are set to keep climbing. If you hold onto your property for 5-10 years, you could be looking at even bigger profits.

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