Is 2026 the Year of the Buyer in ABQ?

by Jason L Jenkins

If you’ve been following the news over the last few years, it may have felt like watching a high-speed game unfold—interest rates climbing, inventory shrinking, and home prices skyrocketing. But as we step into January 2026, one question looms: Has the tide finally turned for buyers in Albuquerque?

As a local REALTOR®, I’m noticing a clear shift. While I wouldn’t call it a “buyer’s paradise,” 2026 is shaping up to be the year where the power dynamic in ABQ real estate has finally leveled out.

The End of the “Wait and See” Strategy

For the past 18 months, many potential homeowners stayed on the sidelines, hoping for a “crash” or a return to 3% mortgage rates. Here’s the reality for 2026: the crash didn’t happen, and 3% rates aren’t coming back. What has arrived is stability.

Mortgage rates have settled into a predictable range, and homes are now staying on the market for an average of 45–60 days. For buyers, this is a game-changer:

You can sleep on a decision without fear of losing a home.
You can tour a house more than once.
You can visualize your furniture and lifestyle without pressure.

Why You Have More Leverage in 2026

Sellers in Albuquerque are more open to concessions—a word every buyer should know this year. Many are willing to:

Help with closing costs: Keep more cash in your pocket for furniture, upgrades, or moving expenses.
Agree to repairs: In 2022, many buyers waived inspections. Now, you can ensure the roof, HVAC, and other major systems are in top shape.
Offer rate buydowns: Some sellers are contributing funds to reduce your interest rate for the first few years, lowering your monthly payments.

The Albuquerque Advantage

ABQ continues to attract newcomers, drawn by a growing film industry and expanding tech sector. Demand remains strong, meaning your investment is secure. Buying a home here isn’t just about the property—it’s about entering a stabilizing, maturing market with real opportunity for buyers.

Ready to Make Your Move?

If you’ve been waiting for a sign to start your search, this is it. The frenzy is gone, but the opportunity is real. Contact me, Jason L. Jenkins, and let’s explore the inventory in your favorite neighborhoods. You might be surprised at just how much leverage you have in today’s Albuquerque market.