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What to Know About Working With Andy Valalik at Keller Williams Realty

By Constance Obi · Culture & Recreation Writer

Who Andy Valalik is and what he does

Andy Valalik is a real estate agent with Keller Williams Realty, one of the largest real estate franchises in the United States. He works with buyers and sellers in South Carolina, helping them navigate property transactions, market conditions, and the paperwork involved in buying or selling a home. Like other agents at Keller Williams, Valalik operates as an independent contractor licensed by the state, meaning he represents either the buyer or the seller in a deal—not both.

Keller Williams operates differently from some other brokerages. The company emphasizes agent training, technology tools, and a commission-sharing model where agents keep a larger percentage of their earnings than at some competing firms. This structure means Valalik has access to company resources and training, but his individual service and track record are what matter most when deciding whether to work with him.

Key Takeaways

  • Andy Valalik is a licensed real estate agent at Keller Williams Realty who represents either buyers or sellers, not both parties in the same transaction.
  • You can verify his license status and any disciplinary history through the South Carolina Real Estate Commission website before hiring him.
  • Real estate commissions are negotiable, and Valalik's rate may differ from other agents—ask what he charges before signing any agreement.
  • Keller Williams provides agents with training and technology, but your experience depends on Valalik's individual expertise, responsiveness, and knowledge of your local market.

How to verify his license and background

Before working with any real estate agent in South Carolina, you can confirm their license status and check for any complaints or disciplinary actions. The South Carolina Real Estate Commission maintains a public database where you can search by agent name or license number. This database shows whether the license is active, what type of license he holds, and whether there have been any violations or settlements.

You can also ask Valalik directly for his license number and brokerage affiliation. A legitimate agent will provide this information without hesitation. If you are buying a home, you have the right to work with any agent you choose—the seller's agent cannot prevent you from bringing your own representation. If you are selling, you will sign a listing agreement that specifies which agent or brokerage will represent you.

What to expect when buying with an agent

If you hire Valalik to represent you as a buyer, he will search for properties that match your criteria, arrange showings, help you understand the local market, and guide you through making an offer. He will also help you understand inspection reports, appraisals, and financing contingencies. In South Carolina, the buyer's agent is typically paid by the seller through the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) commission split—meaning you do not pay Valalik directly out of pocket, though his commission is built into the overall transaction cost.

Ask Valalik upfront what his process is for finding homes, how often he will send you listings, and how quickly he responds to questions. Some agents use automated systems to send new listings daily; others work more personally. Neither approach is inherently better—it depends on your preference. Also ask whether he has experience in the specific neighborhoods or price ranges you are interested in, since local knowledge matters significantly.

What to expect when selling with an agent

If you list your home with Valalik, you will sign a listing agreement that specifies his commission rate, the length of the listing period (usually 90 days or six months), and what marketing he will do. The commission is typically split between the listing agent (Valalik) and the buyer's agent, and it comes out of your sale proceeds. Before signing, confirm the exact percentage and ask what happens if the home does not sell within the agreement period.

Valalik's responsibilities as your listing agent include pricing the home competitively based on comparable sales, marketing it through the MLS and other channels, scheduling showings, and negotiating offers on your behalf. Ask what his marketing plan includes—some agents use professional photography, virtual tours, and social media; others rely primarily on the MLS listing. The quality of these efforts can affect how quickly your home sells and at what price.

Commission rates and negotiation

Real estate commissions in South Carolina are not set by law or by Keller Williams—they are negotiable between you and the agent. The standard in many markets is around 5 to 6 percent of the sale price, split between the listing and buyer's agents, but this varies by agent, brokerage, and market conditions. Valalik's rate may be different, and you should ask what he charges before you commit.

If you are selling, you can negotiate the commission rate as part of the listing agreement. If you are buying, the commission is typically paid by the seller, so you do not negotiate it directly with Valalik—but you can ask whether he will reduce his share in exchange for a faster sale or other terms. Do not assume the rate is fixed; it is one of the few things in a real estate transaction where there is room to discuss terms.

Keller Williams tools and resources

Keller Williams provides its agents with technology platforms, market data, and training programs designed to support their work. Valalik has access to the company's client relationship management system, listing tools, and educational resources. However, the quality of service you receive depends on how he uses these tools and his individual skill level. A well-trained agent at Keller Williams may offer better service than a less experienced agent at another brokerage, or vice versa.

Ask Valalik what specific tools or resources he uses to serve his clients. For example, does he use a CRM system to track your preferences and follow up consistently? Does he have a website or social media presence where you can see his listings and market updates? Does he attend continuing education courses to stay current on market trends and legal changes? These details reveal how seriously he takes his craft.

Questions to ask before hiring him

Before you sign any agreement with Valalik, have a conversation about his experience, his process, and his availability. Ask how long he has been in real estate, how many transactions he completes per year, and whether he specializes in a particular type of property or neighborhood. Ask how he will communicate with you—by phone, email, text—and how quickly he typically responds. Ask what happens if you are unhappy with his service or want to end the agreement early.

If you are selling, ask for references from recent clients and permission to contact them. Ask to see examples of how he markets homes and what the average time on market is for his listings. If you are buying, ask about his knowledge of neighborhoods you are interested in and whether he has represented other buyers in those areas. These conversations will help you decide whether his style and experience match what you need.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if Andy Valalik is the right agent for me?

The right agent is someone you trust, who listens to your needs, responds promptly, and has experience in your local market or price range. Meet with Valalik in person or by phone, ask the questions above, and pay attention to whether he seems interested in your situation or is just trying to close a deal. You should feel comfortable asking him tough questions and confident in his answers.

Can I switch agents if I am unhappy with Valalik?

If you are buying, you can work with a different agent at any time—there is no exclusive agreement unless you sign one. If you are selling, you have signed a listing agreement with a specific term. You may be able to terminate it early, but you could owe a commission if the home sells during that period, even after you have switched agents. Review your agreement carefully and ask Valalik about the terms before signing.

What if there is a dispute between me and Valalik?

Start by discussing the issue directly with him. If that does not resolve it, contact the broker who oversees his license—at Keller Williams, that is the brokerage manager. If you believe he has violated real estate law or ethics, you can file a complaint with the South Carolina Real Estate Commission. Keep records of all communications and agreements in writing.

Do I have to pay Valalik if I find a home on my own?

If you sign an exclusive buyer's agreement with Valalik, you may owe him a commission even if you find the home yourself, depending on the terms of the agreement. Read any agreement carefully before signing. If you do not sign an exclusive agreement, you are free to work with him on some properties and independently on others.

Is Keller Williams better than other brokerages?

Keller Williams is a large, well-established brokerage with good training and technology, but the quality of your experience depends on your individual agent. An excellent agent at Keller Williams will serve you better than a mediocre agent at any other brokerage. Focus on Valalik's qualifications and track record rather than the brokerage name alone.