The Inspection Is In: Now What?

by Jason L Jenkins

Happy Monday! You’ve secured a buyer for your home, and now the inspection report has arrived. In the 2026 Albuquerque real estate market, this stage is often called the “second negotiation”—and it’s one of the most important parts of the transaction.

Here’s the key: no home is perfect. Even new construction comes with a list of findings. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s smart negotiation that keeps your deal moving forward.

1. Focus on the “Big Three”

Not every item on an inspection report deserves equal attention. In 2026, we prioritize:

Safety (electrical, hazards)
Structure (foundation, roof integrity)
Systems (HVAC, plumbing, major components)

Buyers may request a long list of cosmetic fixes, but we stay focused on what truly impacts the home’s value, insurability, and long-term performance.

2. Repair vs. Credit

In many cases, offering a closing cost credit is more efficient than completing repairs yourself.

Why?

It gives the buyer flexibility to choose their own contractor
It avoids delays from scheduling and re-inspections
It simplifies the transaction and reduces your stress

This approach often keeps negotiations clean and timelines intact.

3. Understand the “As-Is” Position

If your home was priced appropriately based on its condition, you don’t have to agree to every request.

In a competitive spring market, sellers often have leverage—especially if there were strong showings or backup interest. That means you can confidently push back on minor or excessive repair demands and stay aligned with your pricing strategy.

Keep the Deal Moving Forward

A detailed inspection report can feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, it becomes a tool—not a roadblock. The objective is to resolve key concerns while protecting your bottom line and maintaining momentum toward closing.