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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