Buying property in Albania as a non-resident is more straightforward than most people expect, but a few steps reward attention. Foreign buyers can own apartments and buildings outright; agricultural land is the main category with restrictions, which rarely affects a coastal or city purchase.
The order of events matters. Before any money moves, confirm the title at the local immovable property registry and check that the seller on the certificate is the person you are dealing with. For new builds, verify the construction permit and that the building is registered — not merely promised.
The transaction itself runs through a notary, who prepares and witnesses the sale contract. Expect to budget for notary fees, registration, and a transfer tax. A power of attorney lets your lawyer complete the purchase if you cannot be present, which is common for diaspora buyers.
Our advice is simple: use an independent lawyer who does not also represent the seller, get the title checked early, and never pay a deposit before the paperwork stands up. Done in the right order, a clean purchase takes weeks, not months.
Written by Aulona Kraja