What to Know About Working With the Lisa Richart Team at Keller Williams
The Lisa Richart Team specializes in residential real estate across South Carolina, with a focus on helping buyers and sellers navigate the local market
The Lisa Richart Team operates as part of Keller Williams, one of the largest real estate networks in the United States. The team handles residential property transactions—buying, selling, and sometimes rental placements—across South Carolina communities. Like other Keller Williams agents, they work on commission, meaning they earn a percentage of the sale price when a transaction closes, typically split between the buyer's agent and the seller's agent.
Real estate agents in South Carolina do not need to be licensed by the state to work with the public, but most professional agents carry a South Carolina Real Estate Commission license. This license requires passing an exam and completing continuing education. When you work with any agent, you can ask to see their license and verify their standing through the South Carolina Real Estate Commission's website.
The team's role is to represent either the buyer or the seller in a transaction. A seller's agent lists the property, markets it, shows it to potential buyers, and negotiates on behalf of the seller. A buyer's agent helps you search for properties, arrange showings, and negotiate an offer. Some agents represent both sides of a single transaction, which creates a conflict of interest—something to understand before signing any agreement.
Key Takeaways
- The Lisa Richart Team works within Keller Williams' national network and handles residential real estate transactions across South Carolina.
- Real estate agents earn commission on closed sales, typically split between the buyer's agent and seller's agent, so their incentive is to close the deal, not necessarily to get you the best price.
- You can verify any agent's license through the South Carolina Real Estate Commission before deciding to work with them.
- Buyer's agents and seller's agents have different roles; understanding which side an agent represents protects your interests in a transaction.
- A written agreement (called a listing agreement with a seller, or a buyer's agent agreement with a buyer) spells out the agent's duties, commission, and how long the relationship lasts.
How the team's commission structure works
When a property sells, the seller typically pays a commission to their agent's brokerage, which then splits it with the buyer's agent's brokerage. The exact percentage varies by transaction and is negotiated between the agent and their client—there is no set rate. In South Carolina, commissions often range from 5 to 6 percent of the sale price, but this is not fixed, and you can negotiate.
This structure means the agent's paycheck depends on closing the sale. It does not depend on whether you get the best price, the best terms, or the best property for your needs. Understanding this incentive helps you know what to expect from the relationship. A good agent will still work hard to serve you well, but the commission structure is worth keeping in mind when making decisions.
If you are a buyer, you typically do not pay commission directly—the seller's proceeds cover both agents' commissions. However, the commission is factored into the home's price, so you are ultimately paying for it through the purchase price. If you are a seller, you negotiate the commission rate with your agent before listing.
What to expect when listing a property with the team
If you hire the Lisa Richart Team to sell your home, you will sign a listing agreement that specifies the commission rate, the length of the listing period (often 90 days or six months), and what marketing the team will do. The agreement also gives the team the right to show your home to other agents' buyers and to list it on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), which is how most homes are found by buyers and their agents.
The team will typically photograph the property, write a description, price it based on comparable sales in your area, and market it through Keller Williams' platforms, local real estate websites, and their own networks. They will also hold open houses or private showings. Your agent should keep you informed about showings, feedback from other agents, and any offers that come in.
Before listing, ask the team how they plan to market your specific property, what comparable sales they used to set the price, and how often they will communicate with you. A clear listing agreement and regular communication help prevent misunderstandings later.
What to expect when buying with the team
If you work with the Lisa Richart Team as a buyer's agent, they will help you search for properties that match your needs and budget, arrange showings, and guide you through making an offer. Once you find a property you want to pursue, they will help you understand the offer process, negotiate terms, and coordinate inspections and appraisals.
Before you start, you may be asked to sign a buyer's agent agreement. This agreement says the team represents you and outlines how long the relationship lasts. Read it carefully—some agreements are exclusive (meaning you can only work with that agent), while others allow you to work with multiple agents. Ask about the terms before signing.
A good buyer's agent will listen to what you actually want, not just show you the most expensive properties or push you toward a quick offer. They should explain the local market, help you understand what homes in your price range typically look like, and be honest about neighborhoods, school districts, and property conditions.
Questions to ask before working with the team
Before you commit to working with the Lisa Richart Team, consider asking these questions: How long have they been selling real estate in your specific area? What is their track record with properties like yours (price range, property type, neighborhood)? How do they stay in touch with clients during a transaction? What happens if you want to end the relationship early? Do they represent both buyers and sellers, and if so, how do they handle conflicts of interest?
You should also ask about their marketing strategy if you are selling, or their search process if you are buying. A team that can answer these questions clearly and specifically is more likely to communicate well throughout your transaction. If an agent seems evasive or pushes you to sign agreements without explaining them, that is a sign to look elsewhere.
How to verify the team's credentials
You can verify that agents with the Lisa Richart Team hold valid South Carolina real estate licenses by visiting the South Carolina Real Estate Commission's website and searching by agent name or license number. The site shows whether a license is active, whether there are any complaints or disciplinary actions on record, and when the license was issued.
Keller Williams is a real estate brokerage, meaning it employs or sponsors agents and is responsible for their conduct. You can also check Keller Williams' local office location and contact information to confirm the team's affiliation. Online reviews on Google, Zillow, or the Better Business Bureau may offer insight into other clients' experiences, though remember that reviews are subjective and do not tell the whole story.
Understanding the South Carolina real estate market
South Carolina's real estate market varies significantly by region. Coastal areas like Charleston and Hilton Head have different price ranges, buyer pools, and market conditions than inland areas like Columbia or Greenville. Rural properties, waterfront homes, and historic properties each have their own considerations. An agent who knows your specific area well—not just the state in general—will be more useful to you.
The state has no rent control, and property taxes are relatively low compared to other states, which affects both buying and renting decisions. South Carolina also has specific disclosure requirements for sellers, including lead-based paint disclosures for homes built before 1978 and disclosures about property condition. Your agent should explain these requirements and make sure all paperwork is completed correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I negotiate the real estate commission?
Yes. Commission rates are not set by law or by Keller Williams—they are negotiated between you and your agent. You can discuss the rate before signing a listing or buyer's agent agreement. Some agents may be flexible, especially in competitive markets or for higher-priced properties.
What if I want to stop working with the team before my agreement ends?
This depends on the terms of your agreement. Some agreements allow you to end the relationship with written notice, while others have penalties or require you to pay commission even if the team does not complete the sale. Read your agreement carefully and ask about exit terms before signing.
How do I know if an agent is representing me or the other party?
Your agent should tell you clearly at the start of your relationship. If you are buying, a buyer's agent represents you. If you are selling, a listing agent represents you. If the same agent or team represents both the buyer and seller in one transaction, they are a "dual agent," which creates a conflict of interest. Some states restrict dual agency; in South Carolina, it is allowed but must be disclosed 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 professional standards. The Commission investigates complaints and can take disciplinary action, including license suspension or revocation. You can also pursue a civil lawsuit if you suffered financial harm.
Do I need a real estate agent to buy or sell property in South Carolina?
No. You can buy or sell property on your own (called "for sale by owner" or FSBO). However, most buyers search for homes through the MLS, which typically requires an agent to list. Selling without an agent means you handle marketing, showings, and negotiations yourself, and you keep the full sale price rather than paying commission.