Understanding Property Titles and Legal Documents in Albania

Buying property in Albania—especially along the beautiful southern coast in places like Saranda, Ksamil, or Borsh—can be a dream come true. But before you fall in love with that sea-view apartment or hillside villa, there’s something important you need to understand: property titles and legal documentation.

This might sound intimidating, but don’t worry. We’re here to make it simple, clear, and stress-free—just like buying real estate should feel.

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Why Property Titles Matter (A Lot)

The property title is basically the official proof of who legally owns a piece of real estate. It sounds basic, but in Albania—where the system has gone through decades of changes—not all properties have clean, updated, or registered titles.

Here’s why that matters:

If a property doesn’t have clear documentation, or if there are disputes or missing records, it could cause big problems for you down the line. That’s why checking the legal status of the property is the first thing we do at VivaView before listing or recommending any home.

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Common Documents You’ll See When Buying in Albania

When you buy property here, you’ll come across a few key documents. Here’s a breakdown in simple terms:

• Property Certificate (Çertifikata e Pronësisë): This is the official ownership document. It shows who owns the property and if there are any legal issues, mortgages, or claims against it.

• Cadastral Map (Plani i Ndërtimit / Harta Kadastrale): This shows the exact location and dimensions of the property on an official government map. It’s important for making sure the property you see is the one you’re actually buying.

• Building Permit (Leja e Ndërtimit): If it’s a newly built apartment or villa, this confirms that the construction is legal and approved by the municipality.

• Usage Certificate (Leja e Shfrytëzimit): This means the property is finished and officially approved for use. You should never finalize a deal on new construction without this in place.

• Sales Contract (Kontrata e Shitjes): This is the final, notarized agreement between buyer and seller. It should always be reviewed by a lawyer, and registered with the Immovable Property Registration Office.

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