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What to Know About Working With Sandy Gaskins at BRG Real Estate

By Constance Obi · Culture & Recreation Writer

Sandy Gaskins brings two decades of South Carolina real estate experience to BRG Real Estate

Sandy Gaskins is a licensed real estate agent based in South Carolina who works with BRG Real Estate, a brokerage serving buyers and sellers across the state. With extensive experience in residential real estate transactions, Gaskins helps clients navigate the process of buying, selling, or refinancing property. Her background includes work with both individual homebuyers and investors looking to build or expand their portfolios.

BRG Real Estate operates as a full-service brokerage, meaning Gaskins can assist with the full range of real estate services rather than specializing in a single transaction type. This structure allows her to work with repeat clients across multiple transactions and to understand how local market conditions affect different property types and price ranges across South Carolina.

Key Takeaways

  • Sandy Gaskins is a licensed agent with BRG Real Estate who works with buyers, sellers, and investors throughout South Carolina.
  • BRG Real Estate is a full-service brokerage, meaning Gaskins can handle residential sales, purchases, and refinancing transactions.
  • Agents at BRG Real Estate typically work with clients on multiple transactions over time, building familiarity with local market conditions and individual client needs.
  • When choosing to work with any real estate agent, you can verify their license status and complaint history through the South Carolina Real Estate Commission.

How to verify an agent's credentials and background

Before working with any real estate agent in South Carolina, you can confirm their license status and check for any disciplinary history. The South Carolina Real Estate Commission maintains a public database where you can search agents by name, license number, or brokerage. This database shows whether a license is currently active, when it was issued, and any formal complaints or disciplinary actions on record.

You can access this database through the South Carolina Real Estate Commission's website. The search takes a few minutes and gives you a clear picture of an agent's standing with the state. If you have questions about what you find—or if you cannot find a listing—you can contact the Commission directly by phone or through their website.

What to expect when working with a real estate agent

Real estate agents in South Carolina typically earn commission on completed sales rather than charging hourly fees or flat rates. The seller's agent and buyer's agent split the commission, which is usually a percentage of the final sale price. This means as a buyer, you typically do not pay the agent directly—the seller's proceeds cover both commissions. As a seller, the commission comes out of your sale price before you receive your net proceeds.

An agent's job includes listing your property (if you are selling), showing properties to potential buyers, negotiating offers, coordinating inspections and appraisals, and managing paperwork through closing. Agents also stay current on local market trends, comparable sales, and neighborhood conditions so they can advise clients on pricing and timing. The relationship often extends beyond a single transaction, with many clients returning to the same agent for future purchases or sales.

Understanding the buying process with a real estate agent

When you work with an agent to buy property, they typically help you identify neighborhoods and properties that match your budget and needs, arrange showings, and advise on offer strategy. Before making an offer, most buyers get pre-approved for a mortgage so the agent knows your price range and can focus on properties within reach. The agent then presents your offer to the seller's agent, negotiates terms, and coordinates the inspection, appraisal, and closing process.

Agents also explain contingencies—conditions that must be met for the sale to proceed, such as a satisfactory home inspection or successful appraisal. Understanding these protections matters because they determine what happens if problems emerge after you make an offer. Your agent should walk you through each step and explain what to expect at closing.

Understanding the selling process with a real estate agent

When selling, an agent typically lists your property on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), which is the database that other agents and their buyers search. The agent prices the property based on comparable recent sales, market conditions, and the property's condition. They coordinate showings, present offers as they come in, and advise on which to accept, counter, or reject.

The agent also arranges the home inspection (which the buyer typically pays for), coordinates the appraisal, and manages the closing process. Throughout, they communicate between you and the buyer's agent, handle disclosures about the property's condition, and ensure all paperwork is completed correctly. The timeline from listing to closing typically ranges from 30 to 60 days, though it varies based on market conditions and how quickly buyer financing is approved.

What questions to ask before choosing an agent

Before committing to work with any agent, ask about their experience in your specific situation—whether that is buying in a particular neighborhood, selling a rental property, or working with investors. Ask how long they have been licensed, how many transactions they completed in the past year, and whether they work full-time in real estate or part-time alongside other work. These details help you understand whether they have the bandwidth and expertise for your needs.

You should also ask about their communication style and availability. Some agents prefer phone calls, others text or email. Some are available evenings and weekends, others work standard business hours. Clarify how often they will update you on showings, offers, or market activity. Ask whether they handle all aspects of the transaction or whether they work with a team. Finally, ask for references from past clients—people who have actually worked with them on a recent transaction.

How BRG Real Estate operates as a brokerage

BRG Real Estate functions as the legal entity that holds agents' licenses and oversees their compliance with state law. The brokerage handles trust accounts (where earnest money and other client funds are held), manages the MLS listings, and ensures agents follow South Carolina real estate law and ethical standards. Individual agents like Sandy Gaskins work under the brokerage's license and are bound by its policies.

If you have a complaint about an agent's conduct, you can file it with the South Carolina Real Estate Commission, which investigates violations of state law and the real estate code of ethics. The Commission can take disciplinary action against agents or brokerages that violate rules. Understanding this structure helps you know where to turn if a problem arises during a transaction.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if Sandy Gaskins is the right agent for me?

Consider whether her experience matches your situation—buying, selling, or investing—and whether her communication style fits your preferences. Ask for references from past clients and verify her license through the South Carolina Real Estate Commission. Many people interview two or three agents before deciding, which gives you a sense of different approaches and personalities.

What if I have a problem with my agent during a transaction?

Start by discussing the issue directly with the agent and, if needed, with the broker at BRG Real Estate. If the problem involves a violation of state law or ethics, you can file a complaint with the South Carolina Real Estate Commission. Keep records of all communications and documents related to the issue.

Can I work with multiple agents at the same time?

You can show properties with different agents, but most agents will ask you to sign an exclusive buyer's agreement before investing significant time. This agreement typically lasts 30 to 90 days and means you commit to working with that agent if you purchase a property they showed you. Read the terms carefully before signing.

What happens to my earnest money if the sale falls through?

Earnest money is held in the brokerage's trust account and returned to you if the sale does not close, provided the failure is not your fault. If a dispute arises over the money, the brokerage, your agent, and the seller's agent work to resolve it. If they cannot agree, the money may be held until a court decides or both parties sign a release.

How much commission do real estate agents charge?

Commission rates vary and are negotiable, but typically range from 4 to 6 percent of the sale price, split between the seller's agent and buyer's agent. Some brokerages charge flat fees or reduced percentages for certain transaction types. Ask about the specific rate before you list or make an offer.