What to Know About Working With Sam Hassell at Coldwell Banker Chicora
Sam Hassell brings two decades of South Carolina real estate experience to Coldwell Banker Chicora's team
Sam Hassell is a real estate agent with Coldwell Banker Chicora, one of South Carolina's largest independent real estate firms. He specializes in residential sales across the Midlands region, with particular depth in the Columbia market and surrounding areas. His background spans more than twenty years in real estate, giving him knowledge of neighborhood trends, market conditions, and the practical details that shape a successful transaction.
Coldwell Banker Chicora operates as a full-service brokerage with offices throughout South Carolina. The firm handles residential sales, property management, and commercial real estate. Working with an agent means having someone who knows local inventory, can navigate the offer process, and understands the specific requirements of South Carolina property law.
Key Takeaways
- Sam Hassell works through Coldwell Banker Chicora, a regional firm with multiple South Carolina locations and access to statewide listing data.
- His experience covers residential sales in the Columbia area and Midlands region, including both buyer and seller representation.
- Real estate agents in South Carolina must hold an active license issued by the South Carolina Real Estate Commission and work under a sponsoring broker.
- Before signing any agreement, you can ask an agent about their transaction history, their approach to pricing or marketing, and how they handle communication.
What a real estate agent does in a South Carolina transaction
An agent's role differs depending on whether you are buying or selling. On the seller side, an agent typically lists the property in the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), markets it to other agents and the public, schedules showings, and helps you understand offers. On the buyer side, an agent shows you available properties, helps you understand market conditions and pricing, and represents your interests during negotiation and inspection.
In South Carolina, the agent works under a sponsoring broker—in this case, Coldwell Banker Chicora. The broker holds the license and carries errors-and-omissions insurance. The agent must follow South Carolina Real Estate Commission rules, which cover disclosure requirements, handling of earnest money deposits, and conduct during transactions. These rules exist to protect both buyers and sellers.
An agent does not set prices, inspect properties, or provide legal advice. A real estate attorney handles the legal side of a South Carolina purchase, and a home inspector examines the property's condition. The agent's job is to connect you with the right property, explain the market, and manage the transaction timeline.
How to evaluate an agent before you work together
Before signing a listing agreement or buyer representation contract, you can ask questions about an agent's background and approach. Common questions include: How many transactions have you closed in the past year? What is your average time on market for listings? How do you price properties—do you use a comparative market analysis? How often will you communicate with me, and through what channels?
You can also ask about their marketing strategy if you are selling. Some agents use professional photography and video tours; others rely on open houses and agent showings. Ask whether they have experience with your specific neighborhood or property type. If you are buying, ask how they search for properties and whether they have access to off-market or pocket listings.
It is reasonable to interview more than one agent. You are not obligated to sign with the first person you meet. A good fit means someone who listens to your goals, explains the process clearly, and responds to your questions in a timely way.
Understanding representation and disclosure in South Carolina
South Carolina real estate law requires agents to disclose who they represent. The most common arrangement is single agency: one agent represents the seller, and a different agent represents the buyer. Each agent owes loyalty to their client and must disclose material facts about the property or transaction.
Dual agency—where one agent or firm represents both buyer and seller—is permitted in South Carolina but requires written consent from both parties. This arrangement creates a conflict of interest, because the agent cannot fully advocate for either side. Many buyers and sellers prefer to work with separate agents to avoid this conflict.
When you first meet with an agent, they should explain who they represent and provide you with a copy of the South Carolina Real Estate Commission's "Duties of Real Estate Licensees" brochure. This document outlines your rights and the agent's obligations. If you do not receive it, you can request it.
What happens during a listing or buyer representation agreement
If you decide to work with an agent, you will sign a contract. For sellers, this is a listing agreement that gives the agent authority to market your property and represent you in negotiations. The agreement specifies the commission rate (typically a percentage of the sale price, split between the listing agent and the buyer's agent), the length of the agreement, and what happens if you sell the property yourself or it sells after the agreement ends.
For buyers, a buyer representation agreement states that the agent will show you properties and represent your interests. This agreement also specifies how the agent is paid—usually through the commission split from the seller's side, not out of your pocket. You can ask about the terms before signing.
Both agreements are binding contracts. You can negotiate the terms, including commission rates, before you sign. If you want to end the agreement early, you may owe a termination fee or commission, depending on what the contract says. Read the agreement carefully and ask questions about anything unclear.
Finding and contacting Sam Hassell through Coldwell Banker Chicora
To reach Sam Hassell, contact Coldwell Banker Chicora directly through their main office or website. The firm has multiple locations throughout South Carolina, and you can ask to speak with Sam or request information about his availability. You can also ask whether he is currently taking new clients, as agents sometimes limit their workload during busy seasons.
When you contact the office, have a clear sense of what you need: Are you buying or selling? What area are you interested in? What is your timeline? This information helps the office connect you with the right agent and set expectations for the next steps.
Questions to ask before you sign any agreement
Before committing to work with any agent, clarify the financial and logistical details. Ask about the commission rate and whether it is negotiable. Ask how long the agreement lasts and what happens if you want to end it early. Ask about their communication style—how often will they update you, and how will they reach you?
If you are selling, ask what happens if the property does not sell within the agreement period. If you are buying, ask how they handle multiple offers and whether they have experience negotiating in a competitive market. Ask about their knowledge of your specific neighborhood or property type.
You can also ask for references from past clients. A good agent should be willing to provide contact information for people they have worked with recently. Speaking with past clients gives you a sense of their communication style, follow-through, and problem-solving approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to pay the agent directly if I am buying?
No. The buyer's agent is paid through the commission split from the seller's side of the transaction. The seller's listing price typically includes the commission for both agents. You do not write a separate check to the buyer's agent. This is standard practice in South Carolina.
Can I work with an agent from a different firm if I find a property listed by Coldwell Banker Chicora?
Yes. You can work with any agent you choose, regardless of which firm listed the property. The listing agent and your agent will coordinate during the transaction. Your agent represents your interests and negotiates on your behalf, even if the property is listed by a different firm.
What if I have a dispute with the agent or the transaction goes wrong?
You can file a complaint with the South Carolina Real Estate Commission if you believe an agent violated state law or ethical rules. The Commission investigates complaints and can take disciplinary action. You can also pursue legal action or arbitration, depending on what your contract says. An attorney can advise you on your options.
How long does a typical real estate transaction take in South Carolina?
Most transactions close within 30 to 45 days from the time an offer is accepted. This timeline includes inspection periods, appraisal, title search, and lender approval for buyers. Delays can happen if inspections reveal problems, the appraisal comes in low, or the lender requests additional documentation. Your agent can explain the timeline for your specific situation.
What is earnest money, and who holds it?
Earnest money is a deposit you make when you submit an offer to show you are serious about buying. The amount is typically 1 to 3 percent of the purchase price. In South Carolina, the earnest money is held by the listing agent's broker in a trust account until closing. If the sale closes, the earnest money is credited toward your down payment. If the sale falls through, the money is returned to you or the seller, depending on the reason.