What to Know About Working With Melissa Garrison at Fairfax Realty
Who Melissa Garrison is and what she does
Melissa Garrison is a real estate agent with Fairfax Realty, a South Carolina-based firm. 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 Fairfax Realty network, she operates under the brokerage's license and follows South Carolina's real estate regulations.
Real estate agents in South Carolina must hold an active license issued by the South Carolina Real Estate Commission and work under a licensed broker. Fairfax Realty serves as that broker for its agents. If you are considering working with Garrison, you can verify her license status through the South Carolina Real Estate Commission's public records.
Key Takeaways
- Melissa Garrison is a licensed real estate agent operating under Fairfax Realty's broker license in South Carolina.
- You can verify any agent's license status through the South Carolina Real Estate Commission's website before entering into a working relationship.
- Real estate agents typically earn commission based on the sale price of a property, paid by the seller at closing.
- Working with an agent means having someone represent your interests during property showings, negotiations, and the closing process.
- South Carolina law requires agents to disclose their brokerage affiliation and any conflicts of interest to their clients.
How to verify an agent's license and background
Before working with any real estate agent in South Carolina, you can check their license status on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission website. The commission maintains a searchable database of all active, inactive, and disciplined licensees. You will need the agent's name to search the records.
The database shows whether an agent's license is current, when it was issued, and whether any disciplinary action has been taken. This is a public record and costs nothing to access. If you find that an agent's license has been suspended or revoked, that is a clear signal not to work with them.
You can also ask Garrison directly for her brokerage information and license number. Licensed agents are required to provide this information upon request, and reputable agents will do so without hesitation.
What agents do during the buying process
If you are buying a home, an agent typically helps you search for properties that match your needs, schedule showings, and negotiate offers. Garrison would represent your interests in these conversations, meaning she works on your behalf rather than the seller's. However, South Carolina law allows agents to represent both buyer and seller in the same transaction if both parties agree in writing—this is called dual agency and creates a potential conflict of interest.
During negotiations, your agent presents your offer to the seller's agent, communicates counteroffers, and helps you understand the terms. Once an offer is accepted, the agent coordinates with the title company and lender to move toward closing. She does not provide legal advice, but she can explain how the process typically works and flag issues that may need a lawyer's attention.
What agents do during the selling process
When selling a home, an agent lists the property in the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), a database that other agents use to find homes for their buyers. Garrison would market the property, schedule showings, and present offers from interested buyers. She negotiates on your behalf and helps you understand each offer's terms and contingencies.
Agents typically charge a commission based on the final sale price, usually split between the seller's agent and the buyer's agent. This commission is paid at closing from the sale proceeds. The exact percentage varies and is negotiable—it is not set by law or the MLS.
Understanding real estate commissions and costs
Real estate commissions in South Carolina are not regulated by law or set by any board. The amount is negotiable between you and your agent, and it is typically a percentage of the sale price. Common rates range, but every transaction is different, and you should discuss commission before signing any agreement.
As a seller, you pay the commission from the proceeds of the sale. As a buyer, you do not pay commission directly—the seller's proceeds cover both the seller's agent and the buyer's agent. However, commission is factored into the overall cost of the transaction and can affect the final price.
Before working with Garrison, ask her to explain her commission structure in writing. This should be part of any listing agreement or buyer representation agreement you sign.
What to expect from a listing agreement
If you hire Garrison to sell your home, you will sign a listing agreement that outlines the terms of your relationship. This document specifies the commission rate, the length of the listing period (often 90 days or six months), and what services the agent will provide. Read this agreement carefully before signing, as it is a binding contract.
The listing agreement also states whether the agent has the exclusive right to sell your property, meaning no other agent can represent it during that period. Most listing agreements are exclusive. The agreement should also clarify what happens if you sell the home yourself or if it sells after the listing period ends.
South Carolina law requires agents to provide you with a copy of the listing agreement and to explain your rights and obligations. If anything is unclear, ask Garrison to explain it before you sign.
How to decide if working with this agent is right for you
Choosing a real estate agent is a personal decision based on your comfort level, communication style, and confidence in their knowledge of your local market. Before committing to work with Garrison, consider meeting with her to discuss your goals, ask about her experience in your neighborhood, and see how she responds to your questions.
Ask for references from past clients if possible, and check online reviews on platforms like Google or Zillow. Keep in mind that reviews are subjective and may not reflect your own experience. Pay attention to whether the agent listens to your needs, explains things clearly, and respects your timeline and budget.
You are not obligated to work with the first agent you meet. It is reasonable to interview multiple agents and compare their approach, market knowledge, and communication style before deciding.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if Melissa Garrison is the right agent for me?
Meet with her to discuss your goals and ask about her experience in your area. Check her license status through the South Carolina Real Estate Commission, read online reviews, and ask for references from past clients. Trust your instinct about whether you feel comfortable working with her.
Can I negotiate the commission rate with my agent?
Yes. Commission rates are not set by law and are negotiable between you and your agent. Discuss this before signing any agreement, and get the rate in writing as part of your listing or buyer representation agreement.
What is dual agency and should I be concerned about it?
Dual agency occurs when one agent represents both the buyer and seller in the same transaction. South Carolina law allows this if both parties agree in writing, but it creates a potential conflict of interest. Ask your agent to explain her role clearly and whether she will represent you exclusively or both parties.
What should I do if I have a complaint about my agent?
You can file a complaint with the South Carolina Real Estate Commission. The commission investigates complaints about license violations, fraud, or unethical conduct. You can also consult a lawyer if you believe the agent breached your agreement or caused you financial harm.
Am I locked into a listing agreement once I sign it?
Listing agreements are binding contracts, but they typically include an end date. If you want to end the agreement early, discuss this with your agent. Some agreements allow early termination under certain conditions, while others may require you to pay a penalty. Review the agreement's terms before signing.