Montenegro Property:
Albania Property:
Albania facts and figures:
Albania is situated on the warm and crystal clear Adriatic sea south of Montenegro, north of Greece and west across the water from Italy. Often referred to as "Europe's last frontier" due to it's long time isolation from the rest of the world during the communist era of Enva Hoxha, Albania is now emerging as the new bargain-priced property destination. With beautiful unspoilt sandy beaches and one of the best climates in Europe and property prices currently around one quarter the price of neighboring Montenegro Albania is well on its way to becoming the next big thing for property hunters.
Capital: Tirana
Other major towns: Durres, Vlora,
Language: Albanian. English is now taught in schools and so generally spoken by younger people, especially in coastal resorts.. Italian is also widely spoken, as in Greek in the south of the country
Climate: The coastal regions benefits from a mild climate all year. Summer temperatures range from 18 – 28 degrees Celsius with over 30 not uncommon in July and August. Winter ranges from 4 – 15 degrees Celsius. Heavy rain and strong winds are common in November & December.
Currency: The LEK although euros are widely accepted.
Banking: Money changer kiosks are rare, but banks and major post offices will exchange money. Bank accounts can be opened with a valid passport..
Electricity: 220 volt. Round pin Euro plugs.
Water: Supply is metered but is subject to interruptions during the summer. Bottled water is available everywhere and is a safer bet for drinking anyway.
Time: GMT +1, BST + 1 in summer.
Newspapers. The Tirana Times is published in English.
Telephones: Country code is +355. Your UK mobile phone may not operate but we can help with local SIM cards if required.
Internet: Major towns all have Internet cafes.. Home Internet services are available in major towns.
Entry Formalities: A valid UK 10-year passport is sufficient for a tourist visit of up to 90 days. An entry tax of 1 euro is payable upon arrival.
Getting there: The main airports is Tirana, located at Rinas. British Airways operate direct flights from London Gatwick several times a week, year-round. Overnight ferry services operate from Bari in Italy to Durres and Vlora.
Driving: Car Hire is easily arranged. A valid UK license is required. If your insurance is not valid for Albania can purchase 3rd party cover at the border.
Property Taxes. There are no property taxes or stamp duty to pay when purchasing property. Contract need to signed in front of a notary which costs around 1%. There are is no Capital gains upon sale.