Resort Investments vs. Residential Flipping in Southern Albania – What’s Right for You?

I’ve lived in Saranda most of my life. Every morning I wake up to that sweeping view of the Ionian, and honestly, it never gets old. Over the years, I’ve seen this town grow from a sleepy coastal gem into one of the most exciting spots on the Albanian Riviera for both tourists and real estate investors. 

But lately, I keep getting asked the same question from clients—especially foreigners who are just getting to know the area: 

“Should I invest in a resort-style property or flip a residential apartment?” 

Now that’s a great question—and one that doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all answer. It really depends on what kind of investor you are, how involved you want to be, and what kind of return you’re after. 

Let’s talk it through. 

What Exactly Is “Resort Investment” in Albania? 

When I say resort investment , I’m not just talking about massive hotel complexes. In southern Albania, especially places like Ksamil, Borsh, and Saranda, resort investment usually means buying into a property that’s designed for tourism from the ground up . 

Think beachfront villas with private pools. Boutique apartment hotels. Seaview apartments fully furnished and ready to rent out on Airbnb from day one. 

For example, we recently launched a villa project in Borsh— Vila 1 & 2 —and let me tell you, it’s the kind of thing most foreign investors dream about. Full sea view, a peaceful plot of land tucked between the green hills and the coast, and designed specifically for short-term holiday rentals. 

It’s not just a beautiful home—it’s a business in a box. 

And What About Residential Flipping? 

On the other hand, residential flipping is more like a hands-on, local game. 

Here’s how it usually works: you find an older apartment—maybe something from the early 2000s, not quite modern, not quite neglected. You buy it under market value (which, believe me, is still possible if you know where to look), renovate it, furnish it smartly, and either rent it out or resell at a profit. 

Last week, I showed a client a property just off Rruga Butrinti. It wasn’t much to look at at first—beige walls, a tired old kitchen, and that weird 80s floor tile. But the bones were good, and the view? Stunning. You could see all the way to Corfu on a clear day. 

The client is already planning a modern renovation with minimal white interiors, black fixtures, and warm wood touches. They’ll probably double the value in six months.