Lauren Small at Berkshire Hathaway: What to Know About Working With Her
Who Lauren Small Is and What She Does
Lauren Small is a real estate agent with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices in South Carolina. She works with buyers and sellers in residential real estate transactions, helping clients navigate property searches, negotiations, and the closing process. Like other agents in the Berkshire Hathaway network, she operates under one of the largest real estate franchises in the country, which means she has access to their training, marketing tools, and national referral network.
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices agents are independent contractors, so Small's specific services, market focus, and commission structure are her own. The Berkshire Hathaway name provides brand recognition and operational support, but the agent relationship is between you and Small directly.
Key Takeaways
- Lauren Small is a Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices agent in South Carolina, meaning she operates under that franchise but sets her own terms and service areas.
- Berkshire Hathaway agents have access to a national referral network and shared marketing resources, which can help if you are relocating or need connections outside South Carolina.
- Commission rates, service offerings, and market specialties vary by individual agent, so you should discuss these directly with Small before committing.
- Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices is a legitimate national brand, but the agent's track record and local reputation matter more than the franchise name alone.
How to Find Her Contact Information
The most direct way to reach Lauren Small is through the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices website or by searching her name on real estate listing platforms like Zillow, Realtor.com, or the local MLS (Multiple Listing Service). These sites typically show her phone number, email, office address, and recent listings or sales.
You can also contact the local Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices office in your area and ask to be connected with her. If you know the specific South Carolina market she serves—Charleston, Greenville, Columbia, or another region—that office can confirm whether she handles transactions there and provide her direct contact details.
What to Ask Before You Hire Her
Before signing any agreement with a real estate agent, ask about her commission rate (typically 5 to 6 percent of the sale price, split between buyer's and seller's agents), how long the listing agreement lasts, and what marketing services she provides. Ask whether she specializes in a particular neighborhood, price range, or type of property—this matters because local expertise saves time and money.
Request references from recent clients and ask to see a sample of her listings and sales history. Find out how she communicates (phone, email, text) and how often you can expect updates. If you are selling, ask what her strategy is for pricing your home and marketing it to potential buyers. If you are buying, ask how she identifies properties that match your criteria and whether she represents both buyers and sellers (which can create a conflict of interest in some situations).
Understanding Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices is owned by Berkshire Hathaway Inc., the investment company run by Warren Buffett. The real estate franchise operates hundreds of offices across the United States and internationally. The brand carries weight in the industry because of the parent company's reputation and the resources available to franchisees, but individual agent quality varies widely.
Being part of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices means Small can tap into national marketing campaigns, relocation services for clients moving to or from other states, and training programs. However, the franchise does not may provide performance or results—that depends on the individual agent's skill, market knowledge, and work ethic. The brand is a credential, not a substitute for checking her personal track record.
Red Flags and What to Watch For
Be cautious if an agent pressures you to sign a listing agreement without time to review it, refuses to discuss commission, or makes promises about sale price or timeline that sound unrealistic. Avoid agents who do not provide references or who seem unwilling to answer your questions in detail.
If you are buying, watch for agents who steer you toward properties that benefit them financially rather than matching your stated needs, or who discourage you from getting a home inspection. If you are selling, be wary of agents who suggest an inflated listing price just to win your business, knowing the home will not sell at that price and will eventually need to be reduced.
How Real Estate Commissions Work
When you sell a home, the seller typically pays a commission to both the seller's agent and the buyer's agent. The total is usually 5 to 6 percent of the sale price, though this is negotiable. If you list with Lauren Small, you would negotiate her commission rate as part of your listing agreement. That rate is not set by Berkshire Hathaway—it is between you and the agent.
When you buy a home, the seller's agent commission typically covers both agents, so you do not pay the buyer's agent directly. However, the buyer's agent commission comes out of the total sale price, which means it affects the overall cost of the transaction. Understanding this structure helps you evaluate whether an agent's services justify the commission you are paying.
Next Steps if You Decide to Work With Her
Contact Lauren Small directly through her Berkshire Hathaway office or online profile. Schedule a consultation to discuss your specific situation—whether you are buying, selling, or both. Come prepared with questions about her experience in your market, her marketing strategy, and her commission structure.
If you decide to move forward, review any contract carefully before signing. Make sure you understand the terms, the timeline, and what services are included. Ask for clarification on anything that is unclear. You have the right to work with any licensed agent you choose, so take time to make sure the fit is right for your needs and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lauren Small a licensed real estate agent in South Carolina?
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices agents must hold a valid real estate license in the state where they operate. You can verify her license status by checking the South Carolina Real Estate Commission website or asking her directly for her license number. This is a basic step worth taking before you commit to working with any agent.
Can I negotiate her commission rate?
Yes. Commission rates are negotiable between you and the agent. There is no fixed rate set by Berkshire Hathaway or any other entity. Discuss this openly during your initial consultation and get the agreed rate in writing as part of your listing or buyer's agreement.
What if I am unhappy with her service?
If you have a listing agreement, review the terms to see how long it lasts and whether there is an exit clause. If you are a buyer working with her, you typically have more flexibility to work with another agent. If there is a dispute, contact the local Berkshire Hathaway office or file a complaint with the South Carolina Real Estate Commission if you believe she violated licensing rules.
Does Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices may provide results?
No. The franchise provides tools and support, but results depend on market conditions, property condition, pricing, and the agent's effort. No agent can may provide a sale price, timeline, or outcome. Be skeptical of anyone who promises results in writing.
How do I know if she is the right agent for my market?
Ask her directly about her sales history in your specific neighborhood or price range over the past year or two. Request references from clients in similar situations. Check her listings on the MLS to see what types of properties she handles and how long they typically stay on the market. Local expertise matters more than the franchise name.