Buying Property: Albania vs. Greece vs. Montenegro – Where’s the Best Deal?

Let’s be real—if you’re looking to buy property by the sea, you probably want gorgeous views, a good investment, and a place that doesn’t cost a fortune . The problem? Greece, Montenegro, and Albania all have stunning coastlines , and it’s not always clear which one gives you the best value.  

So, instead of throwing a bunch of complicated real estate terms at you, let’s talk real talk —where do you actually get the most for your money?  

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1. What Can You Afford in Each Country?  

Here’s the deal: Albania is by far the cheapest option , and that’s not just my opinion—it’s a fact.  

• Albania : With €150K–€250K , you can buy a brand-new, modern seaview apartment in Saranda, Ksamil, or Dhermi . Think floor-to-ceiling windows, a big balcony, and a short walk to the beach. And if you’re looking to invest, you’ll actually own a place that could appreciate in value .  

• Greece : If you’ve got €300K+ , you might find something in a lesser-known part of Greece. But if you’re dreaming of Santorini, Mykonos, or Corfu , you’re looking at €500K–€1M+ .  

• Montenegro : A little cheaper than Greece, but still expensive. In Budva or Kotor , you’ll pay €3,000–€7,000 per m² . That means even a small apartment could easily cost €350K+.  

🏆 Winner: Albania. You can get a modern, beachfront property for half the price of Greece or Montenegro.  

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2. Can You Make Money Renting It Out?  

If you’re not living there full-time, you’ll probably want to Airbnb it and make some extra cash .  

• Albania : Right now, short-term rentals are booming . During the summer, places in Ksamil, Saranda, and Dhermi are fully booked, and investors are making 8-10% returns per year . The best part? No Airbnb restrictions—just list your place and start earning.  

• Greece : Tourists love Greece, but here’s the problem: the government is cracking down on short-term rentals in many areas. Plus, high property taxes and Airbnb regulations cut into your profits.  

• Montenegro : If you buy in Porto Montenegro , luxury rentals do well. But outside of that, the demand isn’t as strong , and rental returns are usually 5-8% . Also, property management fees can eat into your profits.  

🏆 Winner: Albania. Cheaper properties + high rental demand = better profits.  

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3. How Easy Is It to Buy as a Foreigner?  

Some countries make buying property a nightmare . Others make it super simple.  

• Albania : No restrictions. Foreigners can buy property just like locals. No special permits, no complicated processes—just buy it, own it, done.  

• Greece : If you’re not from the EU , get ready for paperwork, legal obstacles, and a slow approval process —especially for properties near the coast.  

• Montenegro : You can buy an apartment easily , but if you want land or a house , you might need to set up a company first , which is an extra hassle.  

🏆 Winner: Albania. Fast, simple, no extra paperwork.  

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4. What About Taxes & Extra Costs?  

Buying is one thing, but what about taxes, utilities, and other hidden costs?  

• Albania : Super affordable. Property taxes are low, utilities are cheap, and maintenance fees are reasonable.  

• Greece : Expensive. Greece has an annual property tax ( ENFIA ), and utility costs (especially on islands) are surprisingly high .  

• Montenegro : Property taxes are moderate , but luxury developments come with high maintenance fees .  

🏆 Winner: Albania. Less tax, less stress, more savings.  

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5. What’s It Actually Like to Live There?  

Numbers aside—what’s day-to-day life like?  

• Albania : Still a hidden gem . The beaches are just as stunning as in Greece, but without the sky-high prices or crowds . The cost of living is low , the food is great, and it’s growing fast. Downside? Infrastructure is improving but not perfect yet.  

• Greece : If you love Greek culture, food, and history, it’s a dream. But in touristy areas, everything is expensive . And in the winter? Many islands shut down completely .  

• Montenegro : Exclusive and luxury-focused. If you want a small, quiet, high-end lifestyle , it’s great. But it’s not as affordable or diverse as Albania.  

🏆 Best overall experience? Albania. You get the Mediterranean lifestyle, lower costs, and fewer tourists.  

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So, Where Should You Buy? 

If you want a stunning beachfront property without spending a fortune , Albania is the best choice right now. 

• You get way more for your money 
• High rental demand (and no restrictions) 

•Easy buying process for foreigners 

• Low taxes and maintenance costs 

•A growing market with serious investment potential 

Greece and Montenegro? Beautiful places —but if you want the best bang for your buck , Albania wins. 

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Thinking about buying property in Albania? 

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