How long-term and summer lets differ, and what to put in writing before you pay a deposit.

Long-term rentals and summer lets in Albania

On the coast, homes are most in demand in summer, and that shapes the rental market there. Some owners let by the week or month during the season, while others look for a tenant who will stay through the year.

A long-term let is agreed for months or years under a written contract, and the home becomes your main residence. A summer let covers a short stay in the season and is usually furnished. The two are agreed differently, so tell the owner or agent from the start which one you are looking for.

What to agree before you rent an apartment

Whatever the length of the let, put the terms in writing before you pay anything:

  • The contract. The rent and when it is due, the start and end dates, and the notice each side must give.
  • The deposit. The amount, what it covers, and when and how it will be returned.
  • Utilities. Who pays for electricity, water, internet and any building maintenance fee, and the meter readings on the day you move in.
  • The inventory. A signed list of the furniture and appliances, with photos of their condition at the start of the let.

If you are also thinking about buying, see the property for sale in Albania, or read the area guides for the places where our current listings are.