Kristi Raines and the Aubree Lewis Group: What to Know About Their Real Estate Services

Who Kristi Raines and the Aubree Lewis Group Are

Kristi Raines is a real estate agent based in South Carolina who operates as part of the Aubree Lewis Group. The group focuses on residential real estate transactions across the state, working with buyers and sellers in various markets. Understanding what a real estate agent does—and what to expect when you work with one—helps you decide whether this agent or group is the right fit for your needs.

Real estate agents in South Carolina must hold a license issued by the South Carolina Real Estate Commission. This license means the agent has passed required exams and agreed to follow state real estate laws. When you work with an agent, you are entering into a business relationship where they represent either you as a buyer, you as a seller, or the seller (depending on the listing structure).

Key Takeaways

• Kristi Raines operates within the Aubree Lewis Group, a South Carolina-based real estate team handling residential transactions.
• Real estate agents in South Carolina must be licensed by the state and follow specific laws governing how they conduct business and handle client money.
• Before working with any agent, you should understand whether they represent you, the seller, or both parties, and what services they will provide.
• You can research an agent's background, transaction history, and client reviews through public records and online platforms to make an informed choice.

How to Research a Real Estate Agent in South Carolina

If you are considering working with Kristi Raines or any agent in South Carolina, start by verifying their license status. The South Carolina Real Estate Commission maintains a public database where you can search for active licenses, disciplinary history, and complaint records. This information is free and accessible online through the commission's website.

Beyond licensing, look for information about the agent's experience and track record. Many agents list their years in the business, the number of transactions they have completed, and the types of properties they typically handle. Online real estate platforms like Zillow, Realtor.com, and local MLS (Multiple Listing Service) websites often display agent profiles with transaction history and client reviews.

Ask for references from past clients—both buyers and sellers. A reputable agent should be willing to provide contact information for people they have worked with recently. Speaking directly with past clients gives you insight into how the agent communicates, handles problems, and follows through on commitments.

What to Expect When Working With an Agent

When you hire a real estate agent to sell your home, you typically sign a listing agreement that gives the agent the right to market and sell your property for a set period (usually 90 days to six months). The agreement specifies the commission rate—usually a percentage of the final sale price, split between the seller's agent and the buyer's agent. This commission comes from the seller's proceeds at closing.

If you are buying a home, the buyer's agent typically does not charge you directly. Instead, the seller's agent's commission is split with the buyer's agent at closing. However, you should clarify this arrangement before you begin working together. Some agents may ask for a buyer representation agreement, which outlines the terms of your working relationship.

A good agent should explain the local market, help you set a realistic price (for sellers) or identify properties that match your criteria (for buyers), handle negotiations, coordinate inspections and appraisals, and guide you through closing. They should also disclose any conflicts of interest—for example, if they represent both the buyer and seller in the same transaction.

Understanding Real Estate Commissions and Costs

Commission rates in South Carolina are not set by law or any regulatory body—they are negotiable between you and your agent. The typical range is 5 to 6 percent of the sale price, but this varies by agent, market, and property type. Before signing any agreement, discuss the exact commission rate and what services are included for that rate.

Beyond commission, selling a home involves other costs: title insurance, property taxes, homeowners association fees (if applicable), and any repairs or inspections the buyer requests. Buying a home involves a down payment, closing costs (which typically run 2 to 5 percent of the purchase price), homeowners insurance, and property taxes. Your agent should provide a clear breakdown of these costs so you understand what to expect at closing.

Questions to Ask Before Hiring an Agent

Before you commit to working with Kristi Raines, the Aubree Lewis Group, or any agent, prepare a list of questions. Ask how long they have been in real estate, how many transactions they completed in the past year, and what types of properties they specialize in. Ask whether they will represent you exclusively or whether they also represent other clients in your area.

Clarify what happens if you are unhappy with the agent's work. Most listing agreements include a termination clause that allows you to end the relationship under certain conditions, but the terms vary. Ask about their marketing strategy (for sellers) or their search process (for buyers). Ask how often they will communicate with you and through what channels—phone, email, text, or in-person meetings.

Finally, ask for their license number and verify it through the South Carolina Real Estate Commission. This step takes only a few minutes and confirms that the person you are about to hire is legally authorized to conduct real estate transactions in the state.

How the South Carolina Real Estate Market Works

South Carolina's real estate market varies significantly by region. Coastal areas like Charleston and Hilton Head have different price ranges, buyer demographics, and market conditions than inland areas like Greenville or Columbia. An agent who knows your specific market—the neighborhoods, school districts, property values, and local trends—can provide more valuable guidance than one who works statewide without deep local knowledge.

The state uses the South Carolina MLS, a database that lists most residential properties for sale. When an agent lists your home, it appears in the MLS, making it visible to other agents and their buyers. This exposure is a key part of how homes sell. Ask your agent how they will market your property beyond the MLS—through social media, open houses, direct outreach to other agents, or other strategies.

Red Flags and How to Protect Yourself

Be cautious of agents who pressure you to sign agreements quickly, refuse to answer questions, or make promises about sale prices or timelines that seem unrealistic. Be wary of agents who do not disclose conflicts of interest or who pressure you to waive inspections or other protections. These are signs that the agent may not have your best interests in mind.

Never give an agent access to your bank account, wire transfer funds at their request, or sign blank documents. Legitimate real estate transactions involve clear paperwork, transparent processes, and money held in escrow by a title company or attorney, not by the agent. If something feels off, trust that instinct and seek a second opinion from another agent or a real estate attorney.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I verify that a real estate agent is licensed in South Carolina?

Visit the South Carolina Real Estate Commission website and use their public license search tool. Enter the agent's name or license number to confirm their license is active and to view any disciplinary history or complaints filed against them.

Can I work with multiple agents at the same time?

As a buyer, you can work with multiple agents unless you sign a buyer representation agreement that says otherwise. As a seller, you typically sign an exclusive listing agreement with one agent, which prevents you from listing with other agents during the agreement period. Read any agreement carefully before signing.

What should I do if I have a complaint about a real estate agent?

File a complaint with the South Carolina Real Estate Commission. The commission investigates complaints about license violations, unethical conduct, and fraud. You can file online or by mail, and the process is free. The commission's website provides instructions and complaint forms.

Are real estate agent commissions negotiable?

Yes. Commission rates are not set by law and are negotiable between you and your agent. Discuss the rate before you sign any agreement, and do not hesitate to negotiate if you believe the rate is too high for the services offered.

What is the difference between a real estate agent and a real estate broker?

A real estate agent works under a broker's license and must follow the broker's policies. A broker is licensed to operate independently and can hire agents to work for them. When you hire an agent, you are technically working through their broker. Both must follow South Carolina real estate laws.