Devin Ihme and the Lakeside Team at Real Broker: What to Know

Who Devin Ihme is and what the Lakeside Team does

Devin Ihme leads the Lakeside Team at Real Broker, a brokerage operating across South Carolina. The Lakeside Team specializes in residential real estate transactions—buying, selling, and representing clients in negotiations. Real Broker itself is a national brokerage that operates as an independent agent model, meaning agents retain more commission than traditional brokerages typically allow.

The Lakeside Team works with buyers and sellers in South Carolina communities, particularly those near lakes and waterfront areas, though the team handles properties across various neighborhoods and price points. Like any real estate agent or team, they earn commission when a sale closes—typically split between the buyer's agent and seller's agent, with the brokerage taking a portion of that commission.

Key Takeaways

• Devin Ihme leads the Lakeside Team at Real Broker, a brokerage where agents work as independent contractors and keep a larger share of commission than at traditional brokerages.
• The Lakeside Team represents both buyers and sellers in South Carolina residential real estate transactions and can help you understand local market conditions in your area.
• Real estate agents are paid only when a sale closes; they do not charge upfront fees for showing properties or discussing your situation.
• You can contact the Lakeside Team directly to discuss your specific property or search, and you are not obligated to work with them after an initial conversation.

How to reach the Lakeside Team

To contact Devin Ihme or the Lakeside Team, search for "Lakeside Team Real Broker" or "Devin Ihme real estate South Carolina" online. Real Broker's website and local real estate listing sites like Zillow, Realtor.com, and the local Multiple Listing Service (MLS) will show their contact information and current listings.

You can also call or text directly if you find their phone number through a web search. Most agents respond to initial inquiries within a few hours during business days. There is no cost to have an initial conversation about your property or your search.

What to expect when working with a real estate agent

If you are selling, an agent will typically visit your home, discuss the local market, suggest a price range, and handle marketing, showings, and negotiations. If you are buying, an agent will show you properties that match your criteria, help you understand neighborhoods and schools, and represent you in offers and inspections. Agents are paid only when a sale closes—not for time spent, showings, or initial consultations.

You are not locked into working with any agent after a single conversation. Many buyers and sellers speak with multiple agents before deciding who to work with. It is normal to ask questions about their experience, their knowledge of your neighborhood, and how they plan to market your home or find you a property.

Understanding Real Broker's structure

Real Broker operates differently from traditional brokerages like Keller Williams or RE/MAX. At Real Broker, agents are independent contractors who keep a larger percentage of the commission they earn. This model appeals to experienced agents who want more control over their business and higher take-home pay. The trade-off is that agents typically handle more of their own administrative work and marketing costs.

From a buyer's or seller's perspective, this structure does not change how you work with an agent or what you pay. Commission rates and splits are negotiable in any real estate transaction, regardless of the brokerage. The agent's brokerage affiliation is mainly relevant to how they run their business internally.

Questions to ask before hiring an agent

Before committing to work with Devin Ihme or any agent, ask how long they have been in real estate, how many homes they have sold in your area in the past year, and what their marketing plan looks like. If you are selling, ask whether they use professional photography, virtual tours, and targeted advertising. If you are buying, ask how they stay informed about new listings and how they handle multiple offers.

You can also ask about their communication style—how often they check in, whether they prefer phone calls or text, and how quickly they typically respond. Real estate moves fast in competitive markets, so knowing your agent's availability matters. Do not feel pressured to decide immediately; a good agent will respect that you are interviewing multiple people.

How commissions work in South Carolina real estate

Real estate commissions in South Carolina are not set by law or by any board. The seller's agent and buyer's agent negotiate their split, and the total commission is negotiable between the seller and their agent. Typical commissions range, but every transaction is different. Commission is paid only when the sale closes, and it comes from the seller's proceeds—the buyer does not pay commission separately.

If you are selling, you can discuss commission rates with any agent you interview. If you are buying, you do not pay your agent's commission directly; it is part of the overall transaction. Some buyers wonder whether using an agent costs them more; in most cases, the seller's agent commission is already built into the market price, so having representation does not increase your cost.

Finding the right agent for your situation

The best agent for you depends on your specific needs. If you are selling a waterfront or lakeside property, an agent with experience in that market segment may be valuable. If you are buying in a particular neighborhood, an agent who knows that area well—schools, traffic patterns, future development—can save you time and help you avoid surprises.

You can also check online reviews on Google, Zillow, or Realtor.com to see what past clients say about their experience. Look for patterns in feedback rather than single reviews. Some agents specialize in first-time buyers, others in investment properties, and others in luxury homes. Matching your situation to an agent's strengths usually leads to a smoother transaction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to pay a real estate agent upfront?

No. Real estate agents are paid commission only when a sale closes. There are no upfront fees for consultations, property tours, or market analysis. If a sale does not close, the agent does not get paid.

Can I work with multiple agents at the same time?

As a buyer, you can show properties with different agents, but most agents will ask you to sign a buyer representation agreement before they invest time in your search. As a seller, you typically work with one agent at a time, though you can interview multiple agents before deciding. Read any agreement carefully before signing.

What if I am not happy with my agent?

If you have not signed a contract, you can stop working with an agent at any time. If you have signed a buyer or seller agreement, review the terms—most include an end date or an out clause. Talk to your agent first about what is not working; many issues can be resolved with a direct conversation.

How long does it usually take to sell a home in South Carolina?

Market conditions vary by location and season. In some areas, homes sell in weeks; in others, it takes several months. Your agent can tell you the average days on market for homes like yours in your neighborhood based on recent sales data.

What is the difference between Real Broker and other brokerages?

Real Broker's main difference is its commission split model—agents keep more of what they earn. From a client's perspective, this does not change your experience or what you pay. Your agent's knowledge, communication, and service matter more than which brokerage they work for.