Due Diligence Guide: Albania

This guide describes the review steps a complete real estate due diligence in Albania should cover before you commit contractually. Background on Albania’s cadastre in the blog article.

1. Ownership check (ASHK)

A targeted request to the Agjencia Shtetërore e Kadastrës through a local lawyer: is the seller registered as owner in the cadastre? Are there encumbrances, mortgages or third-party liens?

2. Inheritance chain (if relevant)

For inherited property: full documentation of the inheritance chain, identification of all heirs, and verification that all heirs are party to the sale.

3. Building permits and physical condition

Compare the existing structure against issued permits. Are extensions, additional floors or outbuildings fully permitted, or is there informal construction (pa leje)?

4. Land type and use restrictions

Clarify whether the property is urban (freely purchasable) or agricultural land/forest/pasture (requiring a Sh.p.k. or a lease).

5. Draft contract

Review of the draft sale contract by a licensed lawyer before the notary appointment: purchase price, payment terms, handover date, warranties.

6. Payment handling

Agree payment via the notary escrow account; no direct payments before notarial execution.

7. Notary appointment and registration

Execution under Article 83 of the Albanian Civil Code; subsequent registration of the ownership transfer with ASHK (typically 5–15 business days).

8. Tax treatment

Clarify the transfer tax (2–3%) and any ongoing tax obligations for rental income, with a tax advisor.

Next step: we coordinate these review steps for you with our network of lawyers and notaries. Start with a Second Opinion on your specific property.