Client Story: How One Investor Turned a €120K Apartment into a Rental Success

I remember the first time I met Lutz — a semi-retired entrepreneur from Germany with a tan like he’d already lived here for a year and a list of questions longer than the Saranda promenade. He wasn’t looking for anything flashy. “Just something smart,” he told me, “where I can come for holidays and let it pay for itself the rest of the year.” 

And that’s exactly what we found. 

But let me rewind a little. 

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The First Viewing — and a Gut Feeling 

We started our search last spring. I took Lutz to see a few places — some were too far from the beach, others had amazing views but the buildings were a bit… well, tired. You know how some older buildings in Saranda have charm, but others just feel stuck in the early 2000s? 

Anyway, we almost gave up that day. We were walking back toward the car, and I suggested we stop by a place I hadn’t even planned to show him. It was a 2-bedroom seaview apartment in a prime location , right across from the beach, with parking included.  

We stepped onto the balcony, and Lutz didn’t say a word. He just stared out at the Ionian Sea, eyes squinting in the sunlight. 

Then he turned to me and said, “This is it.” 

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Turning It into a Smart Investment 

Now, buying the apartment was just the first step. What impressed me was how strategic he was. He furnished it simply but beautifully — neutral tones, a few pieces from the local market (yes, even those handmade rugs from Gjirokastër), and added a little bookshelf with titles in German, English, and Albanian. A small touch, but guests notice things like that. 

He listed the apartment on Airbnb and Booking.com by mid-June. That summer? Fully booked. The next summer? Same story. He raised his nightly price by 15% in 2024 and still had no problem filling the calendar. 

Lutz now tells his friends: “My apartment in Saranda practically pays for my holidays — and a bit more.” 

And honestly? That’s the magic of the Albanian Riviera . 

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Why It Works in Saranda 

Look, I’ve said it before — and I’ll probably keep saying it — I truly believe Saranda offers the best value on the entire Mediterranean coast. 

Yes, we don’t have Santorini’s blue domes or the French Riviera’s glitz. But we’ve got charm. We’ve got warmth. And most importantly, we’ve got affordable properties that actually make sense as investments. 

Tourism here is booming, especially in summer. But even in the shoulder seasons — May and September — more and more travelers are arriving. Some are digital nomads looking for long stays, others are retirees escaping colder climates. And they all want one thing: a beautiful place with a sea view that feels like home. 

If you’re thinking of doing what Lutz did — start with this page . It lists some of our best projects for rentals. My personal favorites for income potential? White Residence is an obvious one. That spot has it all — location, quality, and renters love it. Here’s the direct link: White Residence apartments . 

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Little Things Locals Know

There’s something about knowing the small stuff that makes a difference. Like which part of the promenade gets shade in the afternoon (near the older part, by the Three Pigs grill). Or how you can walk from the newer blocks in Butrinti Street to the central beach in 12 minutes if you take the shortcut behind Mango Beach.

Or how the little taverna near Borsh beach — the one with no sign and plastic chairs — has grilled shrimp that rivals anything in Ksamil.

These things matter when you’re showing guests around or giving local tips in your Airbnb listing. Lutz actually adds a printout in the apartment with his favorite places. It’s a small detail but it makes visitors feel like they’re not just tourists — they’re insiders, too.

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Is It Still Possible to Find Something for €120K?

Short answer? Yes. But it’s changing.

The sweet spot is narrowing, especially for beachfront property or modern Saranda apartments for sale with guaranteed views. But I still see opportunities. The key is to move fast when something good appears.

One of our best current listings is this luxury apartment collection. They’re bright, modern, and built for high-end rentals. They won’t stay on the market long, but if you’re serious about turning your purchase into passive income, this is the type of place I’d look at.

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A Quick Tangent (Because Why Not?)

Last week, I showed a client a stunning property in Ksamil and their reaction reminded me why I love this job. We walked into the apartment, and she stopped mid-sentence just to take it all in. No words. Just this smile — the kind you only get when something feels right deep down.

That’s the feeling I chase when I help someone find a home or an investment here. Whether it’s a €90K studio or a €500K villa in Borsh, that moment is everything.

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Final Thoughts (If You’ve Made It This Far)

If you’re still reading, maybe you’re dreaming about it, too. Your own little place here. Your own story.

The beauty of buying in Saranda isn’t just about sunshine or sea views — although trust me, those help. It’s about lifestyle, opportunity, and timing. And right now, all three are lining up in a way that’s rare.

So whether you’re looking for a smart rental property, a second home, or both — let’s chat. I’ll show you around. Maybe we’ll stop at that Borsh taverna I keep talking about. First shrimp’s on me.

And who knows — maybe a year from now, your story will be the next one I write about.