Buying Property Directly from the Developer: What You Gain (and What to Watch Out For)

Let me start with this— buying directly from the developer in Albania can be one of the smartest moves you’ll ever make.  

But only if you know what you’re doing.  

I’ve lived in Saranda for years. Built here, sold here, negotiated here. Every block of concrete you see going up in this town has a story behind it. Some of them are success stories. Others… let’s just say I’ve learned the hard way which developers finish what they start, and which ones disappear halfway through construction.  

This blog post? Think of it like a casual coffee chat with someone who’s been deep in the trenches of the Albanian Riviera real estate world—and is happy to share a few hard-earned lessons.  

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Why People Love Buying Directly from Developers  

There’s one reason buyers keep asking me about new construction deals: the price .  

When you buy early—especially in pre-construction—you’re locking in a much lower price per m². Sometimes even €300–€400 less per square meter than once the building is finished. I’ve had clients save €20,000 just by getting in at the right moment. And the best part? You often get to pay in tranches .  

That means smaller, scheduled payments linked to construction phases. No massive bank loan up front. No waiting for mortgage approval (which, let’s be honest, Albania isn’t known for giving easily—especially to foreigners).  

You’re working directly with the builder, no middleman. It’s a straight line of communication. For many, that feels good. Personal. Clear.  

And when the developer is someone like our team at White Residence ? You can literally walk the site, meet the builders, ask questions, and see your future apartment take shape brick by brick.  

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But—(and it’s a big but)—Know What to Watch For  

Here’s the part people don’t always talk about.  

Not all developers are the same.  

Some are experienced, established, and deliver exactly what they promise. Others? They launch a project, sell 50% fast, and then slow down because they didn’t plan the cash flow properly. Delays, compromises, unfinished common areas… it happens. I’ve seen it all.  

Last month , a young couple from Germany came to visit a project that had been frozen mid-construction for over two years. The sea view was stunning—honestly one of the best I’ve seen in Saranda. But they were heartbroken. “We saw the renderings online, but we didn’t realize it wasn’t finished,” they told me.  

That’s why I always say: don’t just trust the render. Walk the ground if you can. Or at least work with someone who has.  

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The Perks of Early Access (If You Know Where to Look)  

Another thing I love about working directly with developers is the flexibility .  

Sometimes, especially in early stages, buyers get to choose:  

• Their preferred apartment layout  

• Floor location  

• Even tile colors, if you’re lucky and early enough  

At Residenca 12 , for example, a client of mine recently chose a 2-bedroom unit with a perfect corner balcony. That specific layout wasn’t even on the floorplan—it was created by combining two smaller units. And because she bought before the concrete was poured, the developer agreed.  

You don’t get that kind of custom flexibility buying resale.  

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Hidden Costs? Yes, But Manageable 

Let’s talk money. 

When you buy direct, you usually avoid agency commissions . That’s already a big win—especially on larger purchases. But keep in mind: 

• You still need a notary (budget €600–€1,200) 

• Utility connections aren’t always included 

• Elevator and maintenance fees can apply later, especially in big residences 

I always tell buyers: ask for a full cost breakdown . Don’t assume the price per m² includes everything. That marble staircase? Might cost extra. The pool in the render? Sometimes decorative. 

Also—this may sound small, but matters— ask where the trash bins are located. Some new buildings hide them underground. Others… put them right outside your balcony. 

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The “Albanian Way” of Doing Business 

Here’s where culture sneaks in. In Albania, handshakes still mean something. Relationships matter more than paperwork sometimes. That can be charming… and risky. 

If you’re buying directly, you’re part of the process. You’ll probably meet the builder. Maybe his cousin. Maybe have a coffee in his office with raki on the table. That’s normal. That’s Albania. 

It’s also why working with a local team—like us at VivaView—helps bridge the gap. We speak both languages: real estate and cultural nuance. 

And when you’re looking at a project like the new White Residence Villas in Borsh ? Trust me, you want someone who knows the terrain, the backroads, and where the sun hits at 5PM in August. 

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A Little Tangent: The Power of Timing 

Quick story. A few weeks ago, I showed a beachfront property in Saranda to a client from Poland. It was off-plan, second floor, just 150 meters from the beach. Great light, great layout. He said, “I’ll think about it.” 

Two days later—it was gone. 

Why? A local from Tirana who knows how fast properties move in Saranda just bought it, sight unseen. 

Timing is everything here. If you find a unit you like at the start of a project, grab it . Prices don’t go down once the cranes are in the air. 

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Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Buying Direct?

Absolutely—if you do it right.

You can save money, get better payment options, and even customize your space. Just make sure you:

• Research the developer

• Understand what’s included

• Visit in person if possible (or work with someone who has)

• Protect yourself with a strong contract and clear payment plan

And most importantly? Follow your gut.

If you want to browse some of the newest and most exciting projects on the Albanian Riviera, start here. We’ve got properties with sea views, close to the beach, some still under construction—plenty of opportunities if you’re ready to move fast.

Buying direct isn’t for everyone. But for the right buyer, it’s not just a smart financial move—it’s a chance to literally shape your slice of the coast.

And in my opinion?

There’s no better place to do that than Saranda.