Is Now a Good Time to Sell Your Home in Eau Claire?

Yes, now is a great time to sell in Eau Claire, with median home prices at $320,000 (up 5.2% year-over-year), but waiting until spring 2026 could yield slightly higher gains if you’re not in a rush.

Eau Claire County’s real estate market is thriving, with a seller-friendly 1.8 months of inventory and homes selling in 14-18 days at 98.7% of list price (September 2025). Rising prices are driven by strong demand and low supply, but mortgage rates (6.5-7%) are tempering buyer budgets. 

Why Are Home Prices Rising in Eau Claire?

Eau Claire’s median home price has climbed to $320,000, a 5.2% increase from last year, fueled by job growth in healthcare and education, plus inbound migration from cities like Chicago. Neighborhoods like Third Ward and Phoenix Park see even stronger appreciation due to walkability and amenities like the Chippewa River trails. However, rising rates mean buyers are pickier, so pricing strategically is key to cashing in on gains.

Should You Sell Now or Wait?

Here’s how to decide, based on my work with Eau Claire sellers:

• Sell Now If: You need to relocate soon, want to avoid rate hikes, or own a move-in-ready home in high-demand areas

• Wait If: You can delay until spring (May-June 2026), when inventory often rises and more buyers enter the market.

• Get a CMA: I’ll provide a free Comparative Market Analysis to compare your home to recent sales

• Monitor Rates: Higher rates could slow price growth in 2026, so locking in now may be safer.

Table: Eau Claire Neighborhood Price Trends (2025)

What Are the Risks of Waiting?

Waiting for higher prices could backfire if mortgage rates rise further, reducing buyer affordability. In 2024, I saw an East Hill seller delay listing, only to face a slower market and sell for $10,000 less than expected. On the flip side, forecasts suggest a balanced market in 2026 could bring more buyers, especially in Altoona, where new developments are planned. I’ll help you weigh these factors with a tailored strategy.

How to Maximize Your Sale Price Now

To capitalize on Eau Claire’s appreciation:

• Price Competitively: List 1-2% below market to spark multiple offers, as I did for a Phoenix Park home that sold 5% above list.

• Highlight Upgrades: Modern kitchens or energy-efficient features (e.g., new windows) boost value.

• Stage Effectively: Staged homes sell faster and closer to list price—ask me about local stagers.

FAQs

Q: Will home prices keep rising in Eau Claire?
A: Likely, with 4-5% growth projected for 2026, but rising rates could slow gains. I’ll track trends for you.

Q: Should I renovate to get a higher price?
A: Minor updates (e.g., paint, fixtures) help, but major renos may not pay off. I’ll assess your home’s needs.

Erica Lawton, Realtor with Epique Realty, has closed millions in Eau Claire sales, helping sellers time the market for maximum profit. Call me at 715-495-0456 for a free CMA and personalized advice!