How Capital Point Is Reshaping Albania’s Luxury Market

James Matthews caught up with Ilda Zaloshnja CEO and Founder of Capital Point to discover how the company, together with Forbes Global Properties, are quietly reshaping Albania’s burgeoning real estate landscape

Tell us about Capital Point | Forbes Global Properties and your influential role in guiding what is one of Europe’s most dynamic emerging markets

The combination of Capital Point and Forbes Global Properties is, before anything else, a bridge, an elegant connection between Albania’s deeply rooted local identity and a global network of investors seeking authenticity, opportunity, and long-term value. Our mission is both simple and profound: to translate the promise of the Albanian real estate landscape into a global language without compromising the unique character that defines it. Albania’s charm is not something that can be manufactured or exported artificially; it must be interpreted with care, respect, and vision. That is the responsibility we carry every day.

My career in real estate began more than two decades ago, long before Albania appeared on the radar of international investors. I witnessed an industry evolve from informal and fragmented beginnings into a maturing, increasingly structured marketplace. Working in brokerage, development, advisory, and institutional leadership, Capital Point was born from this rich journey of experience and from a partnership that blends two worlds: the structured, highly sophisticated real estate ecosystems of the United States and the intuitive, resilient, culturally nuanced landscape of Albania, we have forged a strong nucleus.

My partner, Brandan Mativi, is American; I am Albanian. He came with a mindset shaped by scale, efficiency, and precision. I came with a deep understanding of a market built on relationships, instinct, and local complexity. Instead of creating distance, these differences strengthened our vision. Together, we saw an opportunity to combine our worlds - to elevate Albania’s standards while honouring its soul. Capital Point became the embodiment of that balance, and today we stand as the exclusive representative of Forbes Global Properties in Albania.

You’ve played a pivotal part over the past two decades in transforming Albania’s real estate landscape. Can you share the milestones of this journey?

Looking back, the milestones feel deeply personal. Albania’s real estate sector emerged from a period of profound transition. The collapse of the communist regime left the country navigating the complexities of private ownership for the first time. The early years were marked by confusion, weak regulation, and a fragmented understanding of property rights. Entering real estate at that time required courage, patience, and conviction.

One of the most meaningful milestones personally, was participating in the movement that established structure, ethics, and professional standards in the market. Supporting the creation and growth of the National Albanian Real Estate Association (NAREA) was part of it.

Another defining chapter was my early work along the Albanian Riviera, long before it became the global hotspot it is today. I watched untouched landscapes evolve into destinations of international relevance. The same is true for Tirana’s transformation. I had the privilege of advising on projects during the city’s shift from modest capital to a vibrant European hub filled with ambitious development. These milestones shaped not only the market but also my role within it - cementing my commitment to transparency, vision, and long-term value creation.

How will Capital Point | Forbes Global Properties bring new standards of luxury, transparency, and international exposure to Albania?

Our mandate is clear: to introduce the structure, transparency, and quality that Albania’s market has long deserved. True luxury stems from thoughtful architecture, responsible development, long-term management, and respect for the client’s investment.

Transparency is the foundation of everything we do. Albania’s history has shown how opacity weakens investor trust and slows progress. Capital Point operates with absolute clarity - from pricing and documentation to risk evaluation and contractual security. This clarity is not merely a promise, it’s a standard, and one we uphold rigorously.

International exposure comes naturally when quality meets integrity. Through Forbes Global Properties, Albania now has access to a global network of high-net-worth individuals and premium markets. This is the first time Albanian developments are positioned next to world-class properties from Europe, the U.S., and beyond. We work closely with developers to elevate their projects - improving design, amenities, technical standards, and client experience.

Pairing local heritage with international luxury is complex. How will you achieve this?

This is where my heart lies. Albania’s authentic character - its landscapes, architecture, and cultural warmth - cannot be replaced. Our goal is to ensure that luxury developments enhance this identity rather than overshadow it.

We collaborate with top architects and designers to preserve heritage elements while elevating them with refined contemporary design, advanced technology, and global standards of comfort. Through Forbes Global Properties, we then position these stories and assets on the global stage, allowing Albania’s authenticity to shine through a luxury lens.

Do you see parallels with other European destinations that successfully emerged on the global stage?

Absolutely. Markets like Portugal, Croatia, and Montenegro once stood where Albania stands today. By embracing heritage, improving standards, and attracting international investment, they transformed into premium destinations.

Albania is on a similar trajectory but still at the early stages and is geographically so well-positioned. This presents a tremendous opportunity for investors seeking early entry into a rising market. The combination of natural beauty, improving infrastructure, increasing global visibility, and strategic partnerships like Forbes Global Properties creates a powerful foundation for sustainable growth.

Capital Point’s expertise spans luxury coastal developments, pre-construction assets, and bespoke portfolios. How does this translate into the broader market?

Our work touches every dimension of the market. We identify and elevate the most distinguished waterfront developments - projects that have the power to shape Albania’s coastal narrative for decades. Our deep involvement in development cycles allows us to evaluate architectural vision, developer credibility, and long-term risk with precision, ensuring clients invest with clarity and confidence. For high-net-worth individuals, we curate balanced portfolios that combine lifestyle assets, rental-yield properties, and strategic land positions aligned with Albania’s future growth corridors.

Albania has notable tax advantages for foreign investors. Can you elaborate?

Albania offers a very friendly environment for international buyers. Foreigners can purchase urban properties without restrictions, and transaction costs are notably lower than in many Western countries. Annual property taxes are modest, while rental income and capital gains follow competitive, straightforward tax rates.

Where are the most compelling frontline coastal destinations for buyers?

Albania’s coastline unfolds across three chapters. Vlora is dynamic and soon to be home to a brand-new international airport expected in early 2026.

The Riviera which spans Palasa to Himara is a dramatic and poetic place – ideal for boutique luxury. Saranda and Ksamil boast turquoise waters, island views and have huge international appeal. And finally Durrës -Shengjin is the preferred locale for proximity to Tirana and year-round accessibility. Each location offers a distinct lifestyle and investment profile.

Are there residential tourism initiatives underway in Tirana, Durrës, and Vlora?

Yes. Tirana is becoming a true 12-month cosmopolitan capital marked by major mixed-use developments and the entrance of global brands. Durrës is being repositioned as a modern, livable beachfront city supported by upgraded tourism and transport infrastructure. Vlora is emerging as a major marina destination, strengthened by its upcoming airport and hospitality investments.

What role does NAREA play in the industry?

NAREA is essential to Albania’s real estate maturity. Through ethical guidelines, professional training, and collaboration with institutions such as NAR and CEPI, it has helped create a transparent, trustworthy market environment. As co-founder and Vice President, contributing to this transformation has been one of the most meaningful chapters of my career.

What challenges and successes lie ahead as Albania welcomes more HNW investors?

The successes are clear: rising tourism, improved infrastructure, global visibility, and increased investor confidence - especially in light of EU accession progress. Albania stands on the threshold of a major leap forward.

The challenges involve maintaining transparency, strengthening legal frameworks, elevating design standards, protecting natural assets, and ensuring affordability for local communities.

But with responsible leadership and global partnerships like Forbes Global Properties, Albania is perfectly positioned to grow wisely and sustainably - without losing the essence that makes it extraordinary. We live in exciting and dynamic times and it’s a privilege to be at the beating heart of it all.

Click here to find out more about Capital Point.