What to Know About Working With Audra Howser at Coldwell Banker Chicora
Who Audra Howser is and what she does
Audra Howser is a real estate agent with Coldwell Banker Chicora Real Estate, one of South Carolina's established brokerages. She works with buyers and sellers in the state's residential real estate market, helping clients navigate property transactions from listing to closing. Her role involves marketing properties, showing homes to potential buyers, negotiating offers, and coordinating the paperwork and timelines that move a sale forward.
Coldwell Banker Chicora operates across multiple South Carolina locations and is part of the larger Coldwell Banker network, which has been in the real estate business since 1906. Agents within the company have access to shared listing databases, marketing tools, and brokerage support—resources that can matter when you're trying to sell quickly or find the right property in a competitive market.
Key Takeaways
- Audra Howser works as a residential real estate agent for Coldwell Banker Chicora, helping buyers purchase homes and sellers list and sell properties.
- Coldwell Banker Chicora is a regional brokerage with multiple South Carolina offices and access to broader listing networks that can expand your options.
- Before choosing any agent, you should understand what services they offer, what their local market knowledge covers, and how they charge for their work.
- Real estate agents in South Carolina must be licensed by the South Carolina Real Estate Commission and follow state and federal fair housing laws.
What to ask a real estate agent before you hire them
When you're considering working with Audra Howser or any agent, ask about their experience in your specific area—whether that's a particular neighborhood, price range, or type of property. An agent who has closed sales in your area recently can give you realistic information about market conditions, typical days on market, and what similar homes have sold for. Ask how long they've been in real estate and whether they specialize in buyers, sellers, or both.
Clarify how the agent charges for their work. In most South Carolina transactions, the seller's agent and buyer's agent split a commission that comes from the seller's proceeds—typically around 5 to 6 percent of the sale price, though this varies by transaction. Ask whether the agent works full-time or part-time, because that can affect how quickly they respond to showings, offers, or problems. Also ask what marketing tools they use if you're selling—whether they list on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), use professional photography, hold open houses, or advertise online.
How to find contact information and verify credentials
You can reach Coldwell Banker Chicora through their main office phone number or website to ask for Audra Howser directly, or to request her contact information. The brokerage can tell you which office she works from and whether she's currently active. You can also verify that she holds a valid South Carolina real estate license through the South Carolina Real Estate Commission website, which maintains a searchable database of all licensed agents in the state.
The commission's database shows whether an agent's license is active, whether there have been any disciplinary actions, and how long they've held their license. This is a public record and takes less than five minutes to check. If you're working with an agent, it's reasonable to ask for their license number so you can verify it yourself.
Understanding the buyer and seller process
If you're buying, an agent typically shows you available homes, helps you understand the market, negotiates your offer, and guides you through inspection, appraisal, and closing. You don't pay the buyer's agent directly—their commission comes from the seller's side of the transaction. This means you can work with an agent without worrying about a separate bill, though you should still understand what services they're providing and whether they're representing your interests or the seller's.
If you're selling, an agent lists your home on the MLS, markets it to other agents and the public, shows it to buyers, presents offers to you, and negotiates on your behalf. The seller typically pays the commission at closing, split between the listing agent and the buyer's agent. Before you sign a listing agreement, ask how long the contract lasts, what happens if you want to end it early, and what the agent will do to market your home beyond just putting it online.
What South Carolina law requires of real estate agents
All real estate agents in South Carolina, including those at Coldwell Banker Chicora, must hold an active license issued by the South Carolina Real Estate Commission. Agents must follow the state's real estate license law, which covers how they handle client money, what disclosures they must make, and how they conduct transactions. They must also follow federal fair housing laws, which prohibit discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or familial status.
Agents are required to disclose whether they represent the buyer, the seller, or both parties in a transaction. In South Carolina, an agent can represent both sides only if all parties agree in writing—this is called dual agency and is legal but can create conflicts of interest. Before you work with any agent, ask them to explain who they represent and get that in writing.
How to decide if an agent is right for you
The right agent for you depends on your specific situation. If you're buying, you want someone who knows the neighborhoods you're interested in, responds quickly to new listings, and understands your budget and timeline. If you're selling, you want an agent who has sold homes similar to yours recently, has a clear marketing plan, and can explain the local market realistically—not someone who promises an unrealistic price just to get your listing.
Trust matters in real estate because the agent you choose will have access to your home, will represent your interests in negotiations, and will handle sensitive information about your finances and personal situation. Meet with the agent in person if possible, ask for references from past clients, and pay attention to whether they listen to what you want or just talk about what they want to sell you. If something feels off, it's fine to keep looking.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if Audra Howser is currently active as an agent?
You can check the South Carolina Real Estate Commission's online license database by visiting their website and searching for her name. The database shows whether her license is active, inactive, or expired. You can also call Coldwell Banker Chicora directly and ask whether she's currently taking clients.
Do I have to pay Audra Howser if I'm a buyer?
No. In most transactions, the buyer's agent is paid from the seller's commission, which is split at closing. You don't write a separate check to the buyer's agent. However, you should still understand what services the agent is providing and whether they're working in your best interest.
Can I work with Audra Howser if I'm both buying and selling at the same time?
Yes, many agents work with clients on both sides of a transaction. However, this can create conflicts of interest—for example, the agent might be motivated to close your sale quickly to fund your purchase, or vice versa. Ask the agent how they handle this situation and get any agreements in writing.
What should I do if I have a complaint about an agent?
You can file a complaint with the South Carolina Real Estate Commission if you believe an agent violated state law or their professional duties. The commission investigates complaints and can take disciplinary action, including fines or license suspension. Contact the commission directly for information on how to file.
Is Coldwell Banker Chicora affiliated with the national Coldwell Banker company?
Coldwell Banker Chicora operates under the Coldwell Banker brand and has access to Coldwell Banker's national resources and listing networks. However, it is a regional brokerage, and the specifics of how it operates may differ from other Coldwell Banker offices in other states. Ask the brokerage directly about what services and tools they provide.