What to Expect When Working with Andrew and Elizabeth Carper in South Carolina Real Estate

Who Andrew and Elizabeth Carper Are

Andrew Carper and Elizabeth Carper are real estate agents operating in South Carolina, offering services to buyers and sellers navigating the state's residential property market. Like other agents in the state, they work within South Carolina's real estate licensing framework, which requires agents to hold an active license issued by the South Carolina Real Estate Commission and maintain compliance with state and federal fair housing laws.

Real estate agents in South Carolina typically represent either buyers or sellers (or both, depending on the transaction structure), and they earn commission based on the sale price of a property. Understanding how an agent operates—their market focus, their experience with specific neighborhoods or property types, and their communication style—helps you decide whether they're the right fit for your transaction.

Key Takeaways

• Andrew and Elizabeth Carper are licensed real estate agents in South Carolina who work with buyers and sellers on residential property transactions.
• Real estate agents in South Carolina must hold an active license from the South Carolina Real Estate Commission and follow state fair housing and disclosure laws.
• Commission rates are negotiable between the agent and their client; there is no fixed percentage set by law or the state.
• Before hiring an agent, you should ask about their experience in your specific market area, their marketing approach, and how they handle communication with clients.
• South Carolina law requires agents to disclose their representation (whether they represent the buyer, seller, or both) and to provide certain disclosures about the property before or during the transaction.

How Real Estate Agents Work in South Carolina

When you work with a real estate agent in South Carolina, you enter into a contractual relationship. If you're selling, the agent typically lists your property on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), markets it, and shows it to potential buyers. If you're buying, the agent helps you search for properties, arranges showings, and negotiates on your behalf. The agent's commission comes from the sale proceeds and is split between the listing agent and the buyer's agent according to the listing agreement.

South Carolina law requires agents to disclose their role in a transaction. An agent representing the seller must tell you so. An agent representing the buyer must tell you so. In some cases, an agent may represent both parties (called dual agency), though this creates a conflict of interest and must be disclosed in writing. Before signing any agreement, ask the agent directly who they represent and request that disclosure in writing.

Agents must also provide certain disclosures about properties, including information about known defects, the property's condition, and whether it's in a flood zone or has other hazards. These disclosures protect buyers and ensure transparency in the transaction.

Questions to Ask Before Hiring an Agent

When considering whether to work with Andrew and Elizabeth Carper or any agent, ask about their experience in your specific area. How long have they been selling real estate in South Carolina? How many transactions have they closed in your neighborhood or county in the past year? Agents with deep local knowledge understand market trends, comparable sales, and neighborhood dynamics that affect your property's value.

Ask how they market properties (or, if you're buying, how they search for homes). Do they use online platforms, social media, open houses, or direct outreach to other agents? What is their communication style—do they prefer phone, email, or text? How often will they update you on showings or offers? Clear communication prevents misunderstandings and keeps the process moving.

Discuss commission and fees upfront. In South Carolina, commission is negotiable. There is no standard rate. Typical rates range, but you should discuss what the agent expects and whether that rate is flexible. Ask whether there are any additional fees for services like photography, staging advice, or transaction coordination.

What Happens During a Real Estate Transaction

A typical South Carolina real estate transaction follows several stages. First, the property is listed (if you're selling) or the search begins (if you're buying). Once an offer is made and accepted, both parties sign a purchase agreement that outlines the price, closing date, contingencies, and other terms. Contingencies often include a home inspection, appraisal, and mortgage financing.

After the purchase agreement is signed, the buyer typically has a period (often 7 to 10 days) to conduct a home inspection. If issues are found, the buyer can request repairs, credits, or price reductions. The seller can accept, reject, or counter these requests. Meanwhile, the buyer's lender orders an appraisal to ensure the property's value supports the loan amount.

Once inspections and appraisals are complete and any disputes are resolved, the transaction moves toward closing. A title company or attorney (South Carolina requires an attorney at closing) conducts a title search to ensure the seller has clear ownership and can legally transfer the property. The closing typically occurs 30 to 45 days after the purchase agreement is signed, though this varies by agreement.

Understanding Representation and Disclosure

South Carolina law requires real estate agents to provide a Consumer Notice that explains the different types of representation available: seller's agent, buyer's agent, or dual agent. This notice must be given to you before or at the time you first discuss a specific property. The notice explains your rights and the agent's obligations under each type of representation.

If you're working with Andrew and Elizabeth Carper, they should provide this notice and clearly state who they represent. If they represent the seller, they have a duty to the seller and must disclose all material facts about the property to potential buyers. If they represent you as a buyer, they have a duty to you and must work in your best interest. Understanding this distinction is important because it affects what information the agent will share and whose interests they prioritize.

Dual agency—where one agent or brokerage represents both buyer and seller—is legal in South Carolina but requires written consent from both parties. Many buyers and sellers avoid dual agency because the agent cannot fully advocate for both sides simultaneously.

Licensing and Accountability in South Carolina

All real estate agents in South Carolina must hold a license issued by the South Carolina Real Estate Commission (SCREC). You can verify an agent's license status, disciplinary history, and current standing on the SCREC website. If you have a complaint about an agent's conduct—such as misrepresentation, failure to disclose, or violation of fair housing laws—you can file a complaint with SCREC.

Agents must also comply with federal fair housing laws, which prohibit discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or familial status. If an agent refuses to show you a property, steers you toward or away from certain neighborhoods, or treats you differently based on a protected characteristic, that is illegal.

Real estate transactions in South Carolina are also governed by state law and the terms of the purchase agreement. If a dispute arises—over commission, breach of contract, or misrepresentation—you may have legal remedies. Consider consulting an attorney if you believe an agent has acted improperly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if an agent is licensed in South Carolina?

Visit the South Carolina Real Estate Commission website and use their license verification tool. Enter the agent's name and you'll see their license status, any disciplinary actions, and their brokerage affiliation. An active license means the agent is currently authorized to conduct real estate transactions in the state.

Can I negotiate the real estate commission?

Yes. Commission rates are not set by law or the state; they are negotiable between you and the agent. Typical rates vary, but you should discuss what you're comfortable paying before signing a listing agreement or buyer representation agreement. Some agents may offer reduced rates for certain situations.

What if I'm unhappy with my agent during a transaction?

Review your representation agreement to understand the terms and any early termination clauses. If you're unhappy with the agent's service, you may be able to terminate the agreement, though this depends on what you signed. Discuss your concerns with the agent first; many issues can be resolved through communication. If the agent has violated the law or acted unethically, you can file a complaint with SCREC.

Do I need a real estate agent to buy or sell property in South Carolina?

No, you can buy or sell without an agent (called a for-sale-by-owner or FSBO transaction). However, agents bring market knowledge, access to the MLS, marketing resources, and negotiation experience that can save you time and money. Many buyers and sellers find the agent's expertise worth the commission cost.

What disclosures must a seller provide in South Carolina?

South Carolina law requires sellers to disclose known defects in the property, including structural issues, water damage, mold, pest infestations, and other material facts that affect the property's value or safety. Sellers must provide a Property Condition Disclosure form. Failure to disclose known defects can result in legal liability after the sale closes.