What to Know About Working With Mattie Nesmith at Elite Realty Group

Who Mattie Nesmith is and what she does

Mattie Nesmith is a real estate agent with Elite Realty Group in South Carolina. She works with buyers and sellers in residential real estate transactions, helping clients navigate property searches, negotiations, and the closing process. Her role is to represent your interests—whether you're buying a home, selling one, or both—and to guide you through the steps involved in each transaction.

Real estate agents like Mattie work on commission, meaning they earn a percentage of the sale price when a transaction closes. This structure is standard across the industry. Before you work with any agent, it's worth understanding how that commission is split, what services are included, and what your agent's responsibilities are to you as a client.

Key Takeaways

• Mattie Nesmith represents buyers or sellers through Elite Realty Group and earns commission only when a transaction closes.
• Real estate agents can show you homes, help you make offers, negotiate on your behalf, and coordinate inspections and closing logistics.
• You should ask any agent about their experience in your specific market area, their track record with transactions similar to yours, and how they communicate during the process.
• Working with an agent is typically free to buyers because the seller's agent commission is split between both sides; sellers pay commission from their sale proceeds.
• Before signing any agreement, read the contract carefully and understand what it requires of you and what happens if you want to end the relationship.

What agents do in a home purchase

If you're buying, an agent like Mattie can search listings that match your criteria, arrange showings, answer questions about neighborhoods and property history, and help you understand what a fair offer looks like in your market. When you're ready to make an offer, your agent drafts it, submits it to the seller's agent, and negotiates on your behalf if the seller counters.

Agents also coordinate the steps after an offer is accepted: scheduling the home inspection, ordering the appraisal, connecting you with lenders, and managing the timeline to closing. They attend the final walkthrough with you and answer questions about the closing statement. Throughout, they're your point of contact with the seller's agent and the title company.

What agents do in a home sale

When selling, an agent prepares your home for the market—sometimes suggesting repairs or staging—and lists it on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), where other agents can see it. They market the property through their brokerage's website, social media, and direct outreach to other agents. They schedule and conduct showings, relay feedback from buyers' agents, and advise you on offers.

Your agent negotiates counteroffers, manages inspections and appraisals on the buyer's side, and keeps the transaction moving toward closing. They also handle the paperwork required by South Carolina law, including disclosure forms and the deed transfer. Commission is typically paid at closing from your sale proceeds.

How to evaluate an agent before you commit

Before you sign an agreement with Mattie or any agent, ask about their experience in your specific neighborhood or price range. How many homes have they sold in the past year? How long do homes typically stay on the market in their listings? What's their average sale price compared to the asking price? These questions help you understand whether they know your market well.

Ask also about their communication style. Will they text, call, or email? How often will they update you? What's their response time when you have a question? Real estate moves fast, and you want an agent who's reachable and keeps you informed. Finally, read any contract before signing—understand the term (how long you're committed), what happens if you want to switch agents, and whether there are any fees beyond commission.

Understanding buyer's agent agreements

If you're buying, you may be asked to sign a buyer's agent agreement with Mattie. This contract says you'll work exclusively with her and that she represents your interests. It typically lasts 60 to 90 days and can be renewed. Read it carefully: some agreements require you to pay her commission directly if you buy a home without her involvement during the contract period, even if you find it on your own.

Other agreements are non-exclusive, meaning you can work with multiple agents. The terms vary, so don't assume. Ask Mattie to explain any clause you don't understand before you sign. If you're uncomfortable with the agreement, you can negotiate the terms or decline to sign and work with her on a transaction-by-transaction basis, though this is less common.

What to expect at closing

Closing is the final step where the deed transfers to you (if buying) or you receive your proceeds (if selling). Your agent attends or coordinates the closing with the title company. You'll sign documents, verify the numbers on the closing statement, and receive keys or a check. The process typically takes one to two hours.

Before closing, your agent should walk you through the closing statement so there are no surprises. If you're buying, you'll see your down payment, loan amount, property taxes, homeowners insurance, and any credits negotiated in the offer. If you're selling, you'll see the sale price, your agent's commission, any liens or mortgages being paid off, and your net proceeds. Ask questions if anything is unclear—this is your money and your property.

Questions to ask Mattie before you work together

Beyond market experience and communication style, ask whether she's a full-time agent or part-time. Full-time agents typically have more availability and market knowledge. Ask if she handles all aspects of the transaction or refers some steps (like inspections or appraisals) to other professionals. Ask what happens if there's a dispute or you're unhappy with her service—does Elite Realty Group have a complaint process?

Finally, ask for references from recent clients—people who bought or sold in the past six months. A good agent should be willing to provide them. Speaking to past clients gives you a real sense of what it's like to work with her and whether she follows through on what she promises.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to pay Mattie if I'm the buyer?

No. The seller pays commission from the sale proceeds, and it's typically split between the seller's agent and the buyer's agent. As a buyer, you don't write a check to your agent. However, if you sign a buyer's agent agreement with specific terms, read it carefully—some agreements do require you to pay if you purchase outside the agreement's scope.

What if I want to work with a different agent after I've signed an agreement?

It depends on the agreement's terms. Most buyer's agent agreements allow you to end the relationship with written notice, though some require you to wait until the contract period ends. Read your agreement or call Elite Realty Group to ask about their cancellation policy. Don't assume you're locked in—ask directly.

How long does a real estate transaction usually take?

From offer to closing typically takes 30 to 45 days, though it varies. If you need a mortgage, the lender's timeline affects the schedule. If there are inspection issues or appraisal problems, closing can be delayed. Your agent should give you a realistic timeline based on your specific situation and current market conditions.

What should I do if I disagree with Mattie's advice?

You're in control of your own transaction. If you disagree with her recommendation on an offer price, inspection timeline, or any other decision, you can override her advice. However, if you find yourself frequently disagreeing or losing trust, it may be a sign that you're not the right fit. It's better to address concerns early or find a different agent than to proceed with someone you don't trust.

Can Mattie represent both the buyer and the seller in the same transaction?

In South Carolina, an agent can represent both sides if both parties consent in writing. This is called dual agency. It creates a conflict of interest because the agent can't negotiate as hard for either side. If this situation arises, understand that Mattie's loyalty is divided. You have the right to decline dual agency and work with separate agents instead.