The Expat's Guide to Buying Property in Albania

Can Foreigners Buy Property in Albania?

Yes. Foreign nationals can purchase apartments and commercial properties in Albania without restrictions. Land purchases require establishing an Albanian company. The process is straightforward and typically takes 4-8 weeks from offer to completion.

The Buying Process

• Step 1: Property search and due diligence (title check, permits, encumbrances)
• Step 2: Preliminary agreement and deposit (typically 10%)
• Step 3: Notarization of the sale contract
• Step 4: Registration at the local cadastral office (ASHK)
• Step 5: Payment of transfer tax and registration fees

Costs & Taxes

• Property transfer tax: Approx. 2% based on municipality reference value (not market price)
• Notary fees: 0.5-1% of the declared value
• Agency commission: Typically 1-3%, usually paid by the buyer (negotiable between parties)
• Annual property tax: Very low, approx. 0.05% based on cadastral value
• Rental income tax: 15% flat rate
• Capital gains tax: 15% on profit from property sales (Law 29/2023, effective Jan 2024)

Important Legal Considerations

• Always conduct a title search at the cadastral office before purchasing
• Use a licensed notary for all transactions
• Consider hiring an independent Albanian lawyer
• Verify building permits and legalization status
• Check for any encumbrances, liens, or disputes on the property

Due Diligence Checklist

• Verify ownership certificate (certifikatë pronësie) at ASHK
• Check for outstanding debts or mortgages
• Confirm the property matches cadastral records (size, boundaries)
• Review building permits and compliance certificates
• Inspect the physical condition of the property

Why Use a Property Management Company?

For international buyers who won't be living in Albania full-time, professional property management is essential. JHA Holdings provides end-to-end services including tenant screening, rental optimization, maintenance coordination, cleaning, and financial reporting — all available in 7 languages to serve our diverse international clientele.