FROM FIRST SEARCH TO THE KEYS

How buying a home with DuAl works

Buying property in Albania follows a clear sequence: find the home, see it, check the documents, agree terms, sign before a notary and register the sale. Here is what happens at each step when you buy a home with DuAl, and where an independent notary or lawyer comes in.

SIX STEPS

The steps to buying a home in Albania

01
Search and shortlist
Start with homes for sale, where you can filter by area, property type and price. Listings give the layout and area and, where they apply, the floor, lift and paperwork status, in the same terms you will later see in the documents.
Not sure where to look? Our area guides compare Durrës, Gjiri i Lalzit, Golem and Mali i Robit.
02
Viewing
Choose “Arrange a viewing” on a property page, or reach us through the contact page, and we’ll agree a viewing time that suits you.
Use the visit for what photos can’t show: light, noise, the stairwell and lift, the balcony and the walk to the beach. Note anything you want to see confirmed in the documents, such as the exact area.
03
Document checks
Ask for an up-to-date ownership certificate (hipotekë) and check that it matches the seller, the address and the area. Ownership is registered with the State Cadastre Agency (ASHK).
Confirm there are no liens or encumbrances such as a bank mortgage, that the building has its permit and legal volume (kubaturë e rregullt), with an occupancy permit if it is new, and that bills are paid. Our guide to checking property ownership in Albania explains each check.
04
Agreement
Once the checks look right, you agree the price and terms with the seller. A preliminary agreement before the notary deed is common, setting out the price, any deposit and the conditions to be met before completion.
Have an independent lawyer review it before you sign. Buying from abroad? Read buying property in Albania as a foreigner.
05
Notary deed and registration
The sale contract is signed before a notary (noter). Bring your passport; foreign documents may need translation and notarisation, and an interpreter can help if you don’t read Albanian.
The sale is then registered with ASHK in your name. Ask the notary in advance for an itemised estimate of the costs. Our buying FAQs answer the common questions.
06
Keys
The keys are handed over as set out in your agreement. Take meter readings, move the utility accounts into your name and keep copies of the deed.
Once the registration is complete, ask for an updated hipotekë showing you as the owner. Questions at any stage? Get in touch with DuAl.

WHO DOES WHAT

DuAl, your notary and your lawyer

DuAl Real Estate sells the homes on this website. We give you the listing facts, arrange viewings and go through the documents with you before the notary.

The notary is where the sale contract is signed, and the notary can give you an itemised estimate of costs. An independent lawyer advises you alone and can review every document and agreement before you sign.

This page is general guidance about buying property in Albania, not legal advice. Rules and practice can change, so confirm each step with an independent notary or lawyer.

Read the buying FAQs