When buying property in Albania, many foreign buyers focus on the purchase price without realizing there are additional costs involved in completing the transaction.
These extra expenses, sometimes overlooked, can impact the total investment.
Understanding the full financial picture is essential to avoid surprises and ensure your budget covers all necessary fees and obligations.
Main Hidden Costs to Consider
Notary fees
All property transactions in Albania must be certified by a licensed notary. Notary fees are typically calculated as a percentage of the declared property value and may range between 0.5% and 1% of the transaction value, depending on the notary and complexity of the deal.
Registration fees
The property must be registered with the State Cadaster Agency under the new owner’s name. While standard registration fees are modest, additional administrative fees may apply if document corrections or extra verifications are required.
Legal fees
Foreign buyers are strongly advised to hire an independent legal advisor to review documents, conduct due diligence, and oversee the transaction. Legal fees vary depending on the lawyer’s experience and the complexity of the case, often charged as a flat fee or hourly rate.
Document translation and legalization
Any documents issued abroad must be translated into Albanian by a certified translator and legalized (by apostille or consular authentication) before submission. Translation and legalization costs depend on the number of documents and their country of origin.
Utilities and unpaid bills
It is important to verify whether the property has outstanding utility debts or unpaid maintenance fees. Buyers may inherit these liabilities if not cleared prior to purchase.
Renovation and compliance costs
Older properties or informal constructions may require updates, legalization costs, or compliance work to meet local building regulations. These expenses should be assessed during due diligence.
Why These Costs Matter
While Albania offers relatively low property prices, these additional costs can increase the overall investment by 1% to 3% above the purchase price. Buyers should factor these expenses into their financial planning to avoid budget shortfalls.
Professional guidance can help identify all potential costs early in the process.
The hidden costs of buying property in Albania are generally reasonable compared to other countries, but they are important to consider. By understanding these expenses upfront, buyers can avoid unexpected financial strain and ensure a smooth transaction.