Buyer Consultations

We know that buying a house can be a stressful, confusing process, but it's our goal to minimize that by helping you feel comfortable throughout the buying process. If our FAQs below don't answer your questions, please feel free to reach out and we'd be happy to help!

Frequently Asked Questions

I want to buy a house, but I do not know where to start.

Sitting down with a real estate professional at Eau Claire Realty does not cost you anything! One of our real estate professionals will go through the steps of the home buying process, meeting with a lender, the inspection process and what to expect.


How much does it cost to work with a Real Estate Agent when buying a house?

At Eau Claire Realty we do not charge buyers to represent them and show them properties when purchasing a home through our Multiple Listing Service.


Do I have to sign a contract to work with a real estate agent when buying?

We do suggest signing a Buyers Agency Agreement. This agreement lets us work for you and your best interest. When you view a property with an agent you do not have this contract with, they are legally representing the seller as a sub-agent.


What If I do not like my real estate agent and want out of this Buyer’s Agency Agreement?

Our broker and real estate professionals want you to feel comfortable and will terminate this contract if you are unhappy with our service.


Do I have to be pre-approved to look at a house or can I do that after I find one?

With our current competitive market, you may be competing with other buyers who want to purchase the same house. Sometimes it may take a couple weeks for the lender to process all your information or for you to supply all the information they need. Having your pre-approval ready before beginning your search will put you in a better situation when looking and be a lot less stressful. Being pre-approved is an advantage, but not a requirement.


How much money do I need down to purchase a home?

Great question! This is a big detail your lender will go over with you depending on what loan program you qualify for!


What is Earnest Money?

Earnest Money is a deposit made to a seller that represents a buyer’s good faith to buy a home. Industry standard is about 1% of purchase price and is delivered and deposited with-in 5-7 days of an accepted offer.


Do I have to have a home inspection?

We strongly recommend buyers to have a home inspection done to protect your purchase. We have many great home inspectors in the Chippewa Valley. This is also a question for your lender as some loan programs require a home inspection.


How much does a home inspection cost?

All inspectors have different prices, but you will see roughly between $250 - $350.


What if I have to sell my current house before buying a new house?

This is normal for many buyers/sellers. There are multiple options to speak to a real estate professional about. One significant advantage of working with Eau Claire Realty is we have many rentals that could be an “in between” after you sell and before you buy a new home.


Once I find a house how long does it take to move in?

A typically closing, once an offer is agreed upon, takes 30-45 days depending on the contingencies in the offer to purchase.


How do I set up a buyers consultation with a Real Estate Agent?

Feel free to give us a call at 715.552.1818 Ext. 2 or email us at info@eauclairerealty.com