Melissa Massalon at Coldwell Banker Platinum Partners — What to Know Before You Hire Her

Who Melissa Massalon is and what she does

Melissa Massalon is a real estate agent with Coldwell Banker Platinum Partners, one of South Carolina's largest residential real estate firms. She works with buyers and sellers in the South Carolina market, helping clients navigate property transactions from listing to closing. Her background and specific service areas determine whether she's the right fit for your particular real estate needs.

Coldwell Banker Platinum Partners operates across multiple South Carolina regions and maintains the resources of a national brand while maintaining local market knowledge. Agents within the firm vary in their specializations, years of experience, and geographic focus. Before contacting Melissa or any agent, understanding what questions to ask and what information to gather will help you make a more informed decision.

Key Takeaways

• Melissa Massalon is a licensed real estate agent affiliated with Coldwell Banker Platinum Partners, a major brokerage operating throughout South Carolina.
• Real estate agents work on commission, typically paid by the seller's proceeds at closing, so you should understand the fee structure before signing any agreement.
• Interviewing multiple agents and asking about their experience in your specific neighborhood or property type helps you find the best match for your situation.
• Your agent should be able to provide references from recent clients and explain their marketing strategy, negotiation approach, and timeline expectations.

What to ask a real estate agent before hiring

When you contact Melissa or any agent, come prepared with specific questions about their experience. Ask how long they've been selling real estate, how many transactions they've closed in the past year, and whether they have particular expertise in your neighborhood or property type. If you're selling a historic home in Charleston, for example, an agent who specializes in historic properties will likely serve you better than a generalist.

Request references from at least two or three clients they've worked with in the past six months. A legitimate agent will provide these without hesitation. Ask about their marketing strategy—how they'll list your home, what photos and descriptions they'll use, and whether they employ virtual tours, drone photography, or other tools. If you're buying, ask how they search for properties, how quickly they can show you homes, and what their process is for making an offer.

Clarify the financial terms. If you're selling, ask what percentage commission the brokerage takes and what percentage goes to the buyer's agent. If you're buying, ask whether you'll owe any fees directly to the agent or whether the seller's proceeds cover the buyer's agent commission. Get these details in writing before you sign a listing agreement or buyer's representation agreement.

Understanding real estate commissions and fees

Real estate agents typically earn commission on the sale price of a property, paid from the seller's proceeds at closing. The total commission is usually split between the seller's agent and the buyer's agent, though the exact split varies by transaction and brokerage. Commission rates are negotiable and are not set by law or by any central authority.

If you're a buyer working with an agent like Melissa, you generally do not pay her directly—the seller's agent commission covers both sides. However, you should confirm this in writing before you begin house hunting. Some buyers sign buyer's representation agreements that specify what happens if you purchase a property without agent representation or if you buy directly from a builder.

If you're a seller, discuss the total commission percentage upfront and understand what services are included. Some agents offer a full suite of services—professional photography, staging advice, open houses, targeted advertising—while others offer a more limited package. Higher commission does not always mean better service, and lower commission does not always mean you're saving money if the agent doesn't market your home effectively.

How to verify an agent's license and background

South Carolina real estate agents must hold a current license issued by the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (SCDHEC). You can verify Melissa's license status and check for any disciplinary history by searching the SCDHEC database online. This takes five minutes and gives you confidence that the person you're working with is legally authorized to represent you.

Beyond license verification, check online reviews on Google, Zillow, and the Better Business Bureau. Read both positive and negative reviews carefully—look for patterns in what clients say about communication, follow-through, and negotiation skills. A single bad review doesn't disqualify an agent, but multiple complaints about the same issue (like slow response times or poor marketing) should raise a flag.

Deciding between a buyer's agent and a seller's agent

If you're buying a home, a buyer's agent represents your interests in the transaction. They help you search for properties, arrange showings, research neighborhoods and comparable sales, and negotiate on your behalf. A buyer's agent should be working to get you the best price and terms possible.

If you're selling a home, a seller's agent (also called a listing agent) represents your interests. They price your home, market it to other agents and the public, schedule showings, and negotiate offers on your behalf. A seller's agent should be working to get you the highest price and best terms possible.

An agent cannot represent both the buyer and the seller in the same transaction without written consent from both parties, and even then, the agent's loyalty is divided. If you're working with an agent from Coldwell Banker Platinum Partners, clarify upfront whether they represent you as a buyer, a seller, or both, and understand what that means for your interests.

What happens after you sign a representation agreement

Once you sign a buyer's or seller's representation agreement with an agent, you're entering a legal contract. Read it carefully before signing. Buyer's representation agreements typically specify how long the agent represents you (often 90 days or six months) and what happens if you find a property on your own or work with another agent. Seller's listing agreements specify the commission rate, the listing period (usually 90 days or six months), and what marketing services are included.

After you sign, stay in regular contact with your agent. If you're buying, expect them to send you new listings that match your criteria and to be available for showings. If you're selling, expect them to provide you with regular updates on showings, feedback from agents, and any offers that come in. If communication drops off or you feel your agent isn't serving your interests, you may be able to terminate the agreement early, though this depends on the specific contract terms.

Finding the right agent for your situation

The best real estate agent for you depends on your specific needs, timeline, and property type. If you're selling a waterfront home in Beaufort, you want an agent with experience in that market. If you're a first-time buyer in Columbia, you want an agent who can explain the process clearly and patiently. If you're relocating to South Carolina from out of state, you want an agent who understands the neighborhoods you're considering and can help you navigate an unfamiliar market.

Interview at least two or three agents before making a decision. Ask the same questions of each one so you can compare their answers. Pay attention to how they listen to your needs, how clearly they explain the process, and whether they seem genuinely interested in helping you or just interested in closing a deal. Trust your instincts—you'll be working closely with this person for weeks or months, so you want someone you feel comfortable with and confident in.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if Melissa Massalon works in my area?

Contact Coldwell Banker Platinum Partners directly or search their website for Melissa's profile, which will list her service areas and specializations. You can also call her directly and ask which neighborhoods and price ranges she typically works with. If she doesn't work in your area, she may be able to refer you to another agent at the brokerage who does.

What if I'm not happy with my agent after I've signed an agreement?

Review your representation agreement to see what it says about termination. Some agreements allow you to end the relationship with written notice; others require you to wait out the contract term. If you believe your agent has breached the agreement or acted unethically, you can file a complaint with the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation.

Can I negotiate the commission rate?

Yes. Commission rates are negotiable, and you should discuss this before signing a listing agreement. Some agents may lower their rate for a quick sale, a high-value property, or if you're also using them to buy another home. Get any commission agreement in writing.

What should I do if I find a property I want to buy but I don't have an agent yet?

Contact a buyer's agent before you make an offer. The buyer's agent commission is typically paid by the seller, so you won't pay out of pocket. Having representation protects your interests during negotiation and helps ensure the contract terms are fair to you.

How long does a typical real estate transaction take?

A typical home sale takes 30 to 45 days from offer acceptance to closing, though this varies depending on financing, inspections, appraisals, and other factors. Your agent should give you a realistic timeline based on current market conditions and your specific situation.