Is a Sea View Still Worth Paying More for in 2025? (And When It Isn’t)

Let’s be real.

Sea views have always been the crown jewel of real estate in the Albanian Riviera. That dreamy, uninterrupted stretch of blue, that feeling when you open your balcony door and the Ionian is just… there.

But as prices have crept up in Saranda, Ksamil, and even quieter places like Borsh, more and more people are asking me:

“Is the sea view still worth paying extra for?”

The short answer? Sometimes yes. Sometimes absolutely yes.

But not always. And if anyone tells you otherwise, they probably haven’t lived here year-round like I have.

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The Myth of the “Sea View Tax”

Let’s clear something up first: there’s no actual “sea view tax” in Albania.

But… it feels like it sometimes. A 1+1 apartment on the second line from the sea can cost €1,500 per m². Add that direct sea view, and suddenly it’s €2,000 or more.

And I get it. That’s not pocket change. Especially if you’re buying from abroad or looking for an affordable property for Airbnb income.

But here’s the thing. Not all sea views are created equal.

Just because you technically can see the water doesn’t mean it’s worth the markup.

Last week, I showed a client a 1-bedroom in White Residence in Saranda—this one here—and when she stepped onto the balcony and saw the full panoramic view, she was speechless. She just stood there. Said nothing. That moment reminded me why I love this job.

That sea view? Totally worth the price. I’d pay extra for it too.

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So… When Is It Worth It?

Let me break it down the way I would for a friend at my favorite bar near the port (the one with the old wooden chairs and the best raki in town):

1. When You’re Planning to Use the Apartment Yourself

If you’re buying a second home to enjoy during summers—or even planning to retire here—then go for the view. Life’s too short to stare at a parking lot.

Imagine waking up to the sound of waves and having breakfast on the balcony while the town slowly wakes up.

I do that almost every morning. It never gets old.

2. If You Want Maximum Airbnb Return

Tourists don’t care how new your tiles are or what brand your water heater is.

They care about that view. It’s what sells the booking.

In 2024, I had clients renting out seaview apartments at €120–€150/night in July and August. The same size, same building, no view? €70–€90 tops.

You do the math. Over a few summers, that view pays for itself.

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