Why Albania Is the Mediterranean’s Last Undiscovered Real Estate Gem

Written by someone who’s been lucky enough to call Saranda home for years 

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There’s a certain magic in waking up to the sound of the Ionian Sea. If you’ve ever sipped your morning coffee with a seaview and a salty breeze drifting in from the Albanian Riviera, you’ll know what I mean. That’s my daily reality in Saranda—and I still don’t take it for granted. 

But here’s the wild part: most people still don’t know this place exists. 

Seriously. When I talk to clients from Germany, Sweden, even nearby Italy, they’re stunned to learn that places like Ksamil, Borsh, and Saranda offer beachfront property for a fraction of what you’d pay in Greece or Croatia. And I get it. Albania hasn’t exactly been the first country that comes to mind when people think “Mediterranean escape.” 

But that’s starting to change—and fast. 

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The Last Affordable Slice of the Med? 

I’ve worked in real estate here for a while now, and I truly believe Saranda offers the best value on the entire Mediterranean coast . It’s not just a sales pitch. It’s what I’d tell my own friends—and what I have told them, actually. A friend of mine from Denmark just bought a cozy 2-bedroom apartment in White Residence overlooking the sea. This one, actually . 

She was expecting chaos during the process. Instead? She was lounging at Limani a week later, sending me photos of grilled octopus and a sunset that looked like it was painted by hand. 

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Location, Location… and Then the Culture 

If you’ve never been to Saranda, imagine this: crystal-clear water that changes shades by the hour, olive groves climbing the hills behind you, and cafés where the locals remember your name after one visit. 

But it’s not just nature. The culture here is different. 

People leave their doors unlocked in smaller villages. Strangers invite you in for rakia without asking too many questions. It’s normal to see three generations at dinner together, arguing over who makes the best byrek. 

Last week, I showed a client a seaview apartment in Ksamil , and their reaction reminded me why I love this job. They stepped onto the balcony, looked out over the turquoise water and the islands beyond, and just… stood there in silence. Then they turned to me and said, “Why isn’t everyone talking about this?” 

Exactly. 

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It’s Not Just the Views—It’s the Value 

You can still get affordable properties with sea views here—real ones, not distant glimpses through buildings. We’re talking €80K for a modern 1-bedroom in a residence like Residenca 12 , just a few minutes from the beach. Try finding that in Spain or southern France. 

Sure, prices have gone up. But not like other Mediterranean spots. And if you’re thinking long-term? Now is the time. I’ve seen properties double in value over the past five years. Especially in Ksamil, which is getting more attention every summer. But it’s still got that untouched feel—at least for now. 

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A Quick Tangent About Borsh (I Can’t Help It)

Okay, I know this post is mostly about Saranda and the Albanian coast in general, but I have to mention Borsh for a second.

There’s this little taverna just past the olive trees on the south end of Borsh Beach. No sign. No menu. The owner just brings you grilled fish and whatever else his wife made that morning. I sometimes take clients there after a long day of property viewings. Not to sell anything—just to show them what life feels like here. The food, the sea, the slow pace. It’s all part of the experience.

Anyway, back to Saranda…

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Insider Details You Won’t Find in a Brochure

Here’s where being a local helps.

• The best time to view Saranda apartments for sale? Late May or early October. You’ll see the town’s true rhythm without the summer crowds.

• Want to know if a place will have construction noise all summer? Ask the coffee guy at Bar Te Pupi. He knows everything.

• Looking for a beachfront property but don’t want the summer chaos of the promenade? Aim for the quieter end of Butrinti Street—especially near the Mango Beach area.

It’s this kind of local knowledge that really makes a difference when you’re investing in a new place. And I love being the one to share it.

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Who’s Buying Here?

You might be wondering—who’s actually buying property in Albania?

A mix, honestly. Some are digital nomads who realized they could live by the sea for half the price of Lisbon or Nice. Others are retirees tired of the grey skies up north. And then there are the investors. The ones who’ve seen how fast Ksamil has grown and are jumping in before it becomes the next Santorini (but without the €1M price tags).

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But Don’t Wait Too Long…

I’m not trying to rush anyone, but here’s what I’ve seen: good properties don’t stay available for long anymore. Especially beachfront apartments or anything with a private terrace and a sea view.

A few weeks ago, I listed a penthouse that had everything—huge balcony, walking distance to the port, modern finishes. Gone in 72 hours.

So if you’re curious—even just a little—it’s worth reaching out. No pressure, no hard sell. I’m always happy to show people around, even if they’re just exploring.

(And if you want to start dreaming, check out this one—I’d live there myself if I could!)

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The Real Reason I Love This Work

For me, this isn’t just about selling homes.

It’s about helping people find a different rhythm of life. One where you walk to the market in the morning, chat with your neighbors in the afternoon, and end the day with your feet in the sand. Where the sea is part of your daily routine, not just your vacation.

And honestly? I think Albania still has room for people who want to live this way. Who want something real.

So if you’ve been dreaming about a place on the Mediterranean—one that still feels authentic, welcoming, and undiscovered—maybe it’s time to give Albania a closer look.

I’d love to show you around.