Checklist: 10 Mistakes When Buying Property in Albania

This checklist summarizes the ten most common mistakes foreign buyers make when purchasing property in Albania — with the matching countermeasure. Full background in the blog article.

• Verify ownership status independently — don’t rely on the seller’s word; arrange an ASHK request through a lawyer.
• Compare building condition against the permit — rule out informal construction (pa leje).
• Plan for notarial form — private contracts don’t transfer title (Art. 83 Civil Code).
• Pay only via the notary escrow account — no direct payments to seller/broker.
• Check the land type — agricultural land requires a Sh.p.k. or a lease.
• Have the inheritance chain fully documented — for inherited property.
• Commission independent due diligence — the notary does not check your interests as buyer.
• Budget realistically for taxes and closing costs — 2–3% transfer tax, notary fees, ASHK fee.
• Question return promises critically — base decisions on market data, not broker generalizations.
• Bring in an independent representative on the ground — to coordinate lawyer, notary and technical review.

Next step: have a specific offer independently reviewed — with our Second Opinion for €300–500.