Buy-to-Let Investment Properties in TiranaLively capital of cafés, color andrising housing demand

Real Estate in Tirana

Tirana: Albania’s Capital at the Center of Urban and Investment Growth

Tirana, the capital and largest city of Albania, is rapidly transforming into a key real estate destination in Southeast Europe. As the country’s political, economic, and cultural center, Tirana attracts a growing middle class, returning diaspora, expats, and institutional investors. With a booming construction sector, improving infrastructure, and relatively low entry prices, the city offers strong opportunities across residential, commercial, and mixed-use real estate.

Types of Real Estate Available

Tirana’s property market is highly dynamic. Residential options include newly built apartments in modern complexes, renovated older flats, and standalone houses in suburban areas. High-demand neighborhoods such as Blloku, Komuna e Parisit, and the area around the Grand Park offer luxury apartments, often with concierge services, underground parking, and rooftop views.

In contrast, districts like Astir or Fresku provide more affordable options, attracting first-time buyers and long-term renters. The villa market is concentrated in suburban areas like Farka, Sauk, and Lundër, appealing to families and wealthier Albanians.

Commercial real estate includes office towers, co-working spaces, retail units in central shopping zones, and increasingly, mixed-use developments combining residential, hotel, and commercial functions. Demand is also growing for student housing and short-term rental apartments due to Tirana’s multiple universities and international mobility.

Legal Framework and Ownership Rules

Albania allows foreigners to purchase real estate without restrictions, except for direct ownership of agricultural land (which requires forming a local company). Urban apartments, offices, and villas can be acquired by non-residents as private individuals. The purchase process includes a due diligence review of property documentation, a notarized sales contract, and official registration in the Real Estate Registry (Zyra e Regjistrimit të Pasurive të Paluajtshme).

Total acquisition costs typically range from 3% to 6% of the property value, including legal fees, notary charges, and registration costs. Property taxes are low compared to other European countries. VelesClub Int. ensures all transactions are legally secure and provides full legal support for both private and company-based acquisitions.

Market Prices and Trends

Property prices in Tirana have been steadily increasing due to demand from both locals and foreigners. In 2025, average prices in central areas such as Blloku, Kavaja Street, or Myslym Shyri range from €1,600 to €2,500 per square meter. Premium new builds can exceed €3,000/m². In emerging districts such as Astir, Yzberisht, or Kombinat, prices start from €900 to €1,300/m², offering attractive entry points for investors.

Rental yields in Tirana are solid, with long-term furnished apartments generating 4%–6% gross annually. Short-term rentals (Airbnb-type) in central areas can yield over 7% due to high demand from tourists, business travelers, and students. Demand is particularly high for 1–2-bedroom apartments with modern interiors, balconies, and elevator access.

Why Invest in Tirana?

Tirana is the economic engine of Albania and the most liquid real estate market in the country. Key reasons to invest include:

• Capital growth: Prices have been steadily appreciating due to urbanization and limited land supply in central zones
• Strong rental market: Driven by students, professionals, expats, and returning Albanians
• Low taxes: Property taxation and income tax on rentals remain favorable
• Development potential: New infrastructure projects like the Outer Ring Road and railway hub boost property values

Top-performing strategies in Tirana include:

• Buy-to-rent: 1–2-bedroom apartments near universities or embassies
• Short-term rentals: In Blloku, Tirana Lake area, or city center for tourists and business clients
• Land acquisition and resale: Particularly in outer districts where zoning plans anticipate growth
• Commercial property leasing: Office spaces and retail units in areas like Rruga e Kavajës and Don Bosko

Top Neighborhoods in Tirana

Each area of Tirana presents different opportunities for investors and buyers:

• Blloku: The city’s most exclusive district — popular for luxury apartments, bars, and embassies
• Komuna e Parisit: A high-demand area with modern apartment complexes near Tirana Lake
• Kavaja Street & Myslym Shyri: Excellent rental zones with dense commercial activity
• Astir & Yzberisht: Rapidly developing neighborhoods with affordable pricing and infrastructure growth
• Sauk, Farka & Lundër: Suburban villa areas with nature, privacy, and long-term value
• Ali Demi & Kinostudio: Popular among students and young professionals due to proximity to universities

Infrastructure and Quality of Life

Tirana has seen major urban improvements in the last decade. The city features modern shopping centers, growing public transport networks, expanded road systems, and urban parks like the Grand Park (Parku i Madh). Ongoing projects include the construction of the new Outer Ring Road, reconstruction of the New Boulevard, and Tirana-Durrës train line — which will connect the capital to Albania’s main port city in less than 30 minutes.

The city offers a Mediterranean lifestyle with a mix of modern cafés, restaurants, cultural events, and business activity. International schools, medical clinics, co-working spaces, and startup incubators support a growing community of expats and digital nomads.

Real Estate and Residence Permits

Foreign property owners can apply for residence permits in Albania. Ownership of real estate worth over €50,000 generally qualifies the applicant for a 1-year renewable residence permit. Required documents include the title deed, proof of income, and health insurance. The process is relatively fast and user-friendly compared to many EU countries.

VelesClub Int. provides legal and immigration assistance for property buyers, including document translation, application handling, and residence renewals. We also support business formation for those buying land or engaging in development.

Step-by-Step Guide to Buying Property in Tirana

1. Define your goals: Income property, relocation, investment, or commercial use

2. Choose the district: Based on price range, expected returns, and infrastructure

3. Request listings: VelesClub Int. provides vetted offers from developers and private sellers

4. Legal review: Full due diligence of title, planning status, and building permissions

5. Sign agreement: Notarized sale contract executed in Tirana or via power of attorney

6. Register property: Ownership is recorded in the national real estate registry

7. Apply for residence (optional): Based on ownership of qualifying property

8. Rental management (optional): We assist with listing, furnishing, and tenant management

Why Work with VelesClub Int. in Tirana

VelesClub Int. offers end-to-end support for foreign buyers entering the Tirana market. From sourcing quality properties and verifying legal compliance to assisting with taxes, rentals, and residence permits — we provide a seamless, secure, and efficient investment experience. Our multilingual team, local partners, and digital platform allow clients to invest with confidence, whether remotely or on-site.

Conclusion

Tirana is a city in motion — economically vibrant, demographically young, and architecturally evolving. With growing rental demand, relatively low prices, and rising foreign interest, it offers compelling advantages for real estate investors. Whether your goal is passive income, capital growth, or establishing a base in the Balkans, Tirana is worth serious attention. VelesClub Int. is here to help you find the right opportunity and manage it with success.