Shawn Finigan: Real Estate Agent in South Carolina
Who Shawn Finigan is and what he does
Shawn Finigan is a real estate agent operating in South Carolina who works with buyers and sellers on residential property transactions. Like other agents in the state, he holds a license issued by the South Carolina Real Estate Commission and represents clients in negotiating offers, managing inspections, and closing sales.
Real estate agents in South Carolina typically work for a brokerage firm rather than independently, and they earn commission based on completed sales. Finigan's specific service area, specialties, and transaction history are details you can verify directly through public records or by contacting him.
Key Takeaways
- Shawn Finigan is a licensed South Carolina real estate agent who represents buyers or sellers in residential property transactions.
- You can verify his license status and disciplinary history through the South Carolina Real Estate Commission website.
- Real estate agents in South Carolina earn commission only when a sale closes, so their incentive is to complete the transaction.
- Before hiring any agent, ask about their experience in your specific neighborhood or price range and request references from past clients.
- Your agent should explain their marketing strategy if you are selling, or their search process and market knowledge if you are buying.
How to verify an agent's license and background
The South Carolina Real Estate Commission maintains a public database where you can search any licensed agent by name. This database shows whether the license is active, what type of license the agent holds, and any disciplinary actions or complaints on record. You can access this search on the SCREC website at www.llr.state.sc.us/rec.
A license search takes less than a minute and gives you confidence that the person you are working with is legally authorized to represent you. If you cannot find the agent in the database, or if the license shows as inactive or expired, do not proceed.
What to ask a real estate agent before you hire them
When you first meet with an agent, ask how long they have been licensed and how many transactions they closed in the past year. Ask specifically about their experience in the neighborhood where you want to buy or sell—an agent who knows the area well can tell you about school districts, property taxes, recent sales, and local market trends without looking them up.
If you are selling, ask what marketing strategy they will use: will they list on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), hold an open house, use professional photography, or advertise online? If you are buying, ask how they search for properties and whether they have access to off-market listings. Request the names and phone numbers of at least two past clients you can contact for references.
Ask also about their commission rate and whether it is negotiable. In South Carolina, commission is not set by law—it is negotiated between the seller and the agent's brokerage, typically ranging from 5 to 6 percent of the sale price, split between the buyer's agent and the seller's agent. You have the right to discuss this before you sign a listing agreement.
Understanding the buyer's agent versus seller's agent role
A real estate agent represents either the buyer or the seller in a transaction, and this matters for whose interests they prioritize. A seller's agent (also called a listing agent) works for the person selling the property and aims to get the highest price and best terms for that seller. A buyer's agent works for the person buying and aims to negotiate the lowest price and most favorable terms for the buyer.
If you are buying and you contact an agent who is already representing the seller, that agent cannot represent you—they have a conflict of interest. You should find your own buyer's agent instead. If you are selling, your agent should be clear about their duty to you and should not be advising the buyer on how low to offer.
What happens during a real estate transaction
Once you hire an agent and sign a contract, the agent's role is to guide you through several steps. For sellers, this includes listing the property, showing it to potential buyers, presenting offers, and negotiating terms. For buyers, it includes searching for properties, scheduling showings, drafting an offer, and managing inspections and appraisals.
Your agent should explain the timeline at each stage. In South Carolina, a typical transaction takes 30 to 45 days from offer to closing, though this varies based on financing, inspections, and appraisal results. Your agent should keep you informed of deadlines, required documents, and any issues that come up—such as a low appraisal or a failed inspection—and help you decide how to respond.
Red flags and common mistakes to avoid
Be cautious of an agent who pressures you to make a quick decision, promises a specific sale price or timeline, or discourages you from getting a home inspection. These are signs the agent is prioritizing the commission over your interests. A trustworthy agent will give you time to think, be honest about market conditions, and support your right to inspect the property.
Avoid signing a listing agreement that locks you in for longer than three months without an exit clause, and do not agree to a commission rate you have not negotiated. If an agent asks you to sign documents you do not understand, ask them to explain each one before you sign, or bring them to a real estate attorney for review.
When to work with a real estate attorney
South Carolina does not require a real estate attorney to be present at closing, but many buyers and sellers choose to hire one anyway. An attorney can review the purchase agreement, title report, and closing documents before you sign, and can represent your interests if a dispute arises. This is especially useful if the property has title issues, if you are buying a commercial property, or if the transaction is complex.
The cost of a real estate attorney in South Carolina varies, but typically ranges from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars depending on the complexity of the transaction. Some attorneys charge a flat fee for closing review, while others charge hourly. If you decide to hire an attorney, do so early in the process so they can review the purchase agreement before you sign it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if a real estate agent is trustworthy?
Check their license status through the South Carolina Real Estate Commission, ask for references from past clients, and interview at least two agents before you decide. A trustworthy agent will answer your questions clearly, explain their process, and be honest about market conditions and timelines. Avoid agents who pressure you or make promises they cannot keep.
Can I negotiate the real estate agent's commission?
Yes. Commission in South Carolina is not set by law and is negotiable between you and the agent's brokerage. Discuss this before you sign a listing agreement. Some agents may lower their rate if you are selling a high-value property or if the market is strong, but others will not negotiate.
What if I want to fire my real estate agent?
Review your listing agreement or buyer's agent agreement to see what it says about termination. Most agreements allow you to end the relationship with written notice, though some have early termination fees. If you are unhappy with your agent, contact their broker to discuss your concerns before you decide to terminate.
Do I need a real estate attorney in South Carolina?
No, it is not required by law. However, many buyers and sellers hire an attorney to review documents and protect their interests, especially in complex transactions. An attorney can catch issues an agent might miss and can represent you if a dispute arises.
What should I do if I have a complaint about a real estate agent?
File a complaint with the South Carolina Real Estate Commission. You can do this online or by mail. The Commission will investigate and may take disciplinary action if the agent violated state law or professional standards. Keep copies of all documents and communications related to your complaint.