What to Know About Working With Suzy Torres as Your Real Estate Agent

Who Suzy Torres is and what she does

Suzy Torres is a real estate agent serving South Carolina who works with buyers and sellers navigating residential property transactions. She represents clients in finding homes, listing properties for sale, and managing the paperwork and negotiations that come with buying or selling real estate in the state.

Like all real estate agents in South Carolina, Torres must hold a current license issued by the South Carolina Real Estate Commission. This license means she has passed the state exam and meets continuing education requirements, but it does not mean she specializes in any particular neighborhood, price range, or type of property—that depends on her individual experience and focus.

Before you contact any agent, it helps to understand what agents do, what they cost, and what questions to ask so you can decide whether working with a particular person makes sense for your situation.

Key Takeaways

• Real estate agents in South Carolina earn commission only when a sale closes, typically split between the buyer's agent and the seller's agent, so their payment depends on your transaction completing.
• You can interview multiple agents before choosing one, and you are not locked into an agreement unless you sign a contract that specifies the terms and length of the relationship.
• An agent's job is to represent your interests in negotiation, handle marketing or showings, and guide you through state-required disclosures and closing procedures.
• South Carolina real estate transactions involve specific forms and timelines set by state law, and your agent should be familiar with local market conditions and closing practices in your area.

How real estate agents are paid in South Carolina

Real estate agents earn commission, which is a percentage of the final sale price paid only when the sale closes. The seller typically pays the full commission, which is then split between the listing agent (who represents the seller) and the buyer's agent (who represents the buyer). Commission rates vary and are negotiable—there is no set percentage required by law.

Because agents earn money only when a transaction closes, they have an incentive to help you complete a sale, but they also have an incentive to close quickly rather than hold out for a better price or terms. Understanding this dynamic helps you know when to rely on an agent's advice and when to seek a second opinion, such as from a home inspector, appraiser, or attorney.

If you are a buyer working with an agent, you typically do not pay the agent directly—the seller's proceeds cover both commissions. If you are a seller, you negotiate the commission rate with your listing agent before signing a listing agreement.

What to expect when you hire an agent

When you decide to work with an agent, you will sign an agreement that spells out what the agent will do, how long the agreement lasts, and under what conditions it can end. For sellers, this is called a listing agreement. For buyers, it may be called a buyer representation agreement or buyer broker agreement, though many agents work with buyers informally without a signed contract.

A listing agreement typically commits you to work exclusively with that agent for a set period—often 90 days or six months. During that time, the agent lists your property on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), markets it, shows it to other agents and their clients, and negotiates offers on your behalf. You should read the agreement carefully, including any clauses about what happens if you want to end the relationship early or if the agent fails to perform.

For buyers, an agent will show you properties, explain the offer process, help you understand inspection and appraisal results, and guide you through closing. Some buyer agreements are exclusive (you work only with that agent), while others are non-exclusive (you can work with multiple agents). Ask which type is being offered before you sign.

South Carolina real estate forms and timelines

South Carolina has specific forms and procedures that must be followed in every real estate transaction. Your agent should be familiar with these and explain them to you as you move through the process.

Key documents include the Residential Real Estate Contract, which outlines the offer price, earnest money deposit, inspection period, and closing date. South Carolina law gives buyers a standard inspection period (usually seven to ten days) to have the property inspected and to request repairs or credits. The seller then has a set time to respond to any requests.

Other required disclosures include the Seller's Disclosure Statement, in which the seller must report known defects or issues with the property, and the Lead-Based Paint Disclosure for homes built before 1978. Your agent should make sure you receive these documents within the timeframe required by law and should explain what they mean.

Questions to ask before you hire an agent

Before you commit to working with any agent, ask about their experience in your area and price range. How long have they been licensed? How many transactions have they closed in the past year? Do they work full-time or part-time? Have they sold properties in your neighborhood or similar neighborhoods?

Ask how they market properties (for sellers) or find properties (for buyers). Will they use social media, professional photography, open houses, or other strategies? How often will they communicate with you, and through what channels? What happens if you need to reach them urgently?

Ask about their knowledge of local market conditions. What is the average time on market for homes in your price range? Are there more buyers or sellers right now? What are prices trending toward? An agent who can answer these questions with specifics is more likely to give you realistic expectations.

Finally, ask about the commission rate (if you are selling) or confirm that you will not pay the buyer's agent commission directly (if you are buying). Make sure you understand all fees before you sign any agreement.

When to work with an agent versus other options

Most home sales in South Carolina involve real estate agents, but it is not the only way to buy or sell. Some sellers list properties themselves (called for sale by owner or FSBO) to avoid paying commission, though this requires handling marketing, showings, and negotiations on your own. Some buyers work directly with sellers or use online platforms to search for homes.

Working with an agent is most useful if you want professional guidance through a complex process, need help marketing your home to a wide audience, or want someone to negotiate on your behalf. It is less necessary if you are very familiar with real estate, have time to handle details yourself, or are buying or selling in a very simple situation.

You can also hire a real estate attorney to review contracts and guide you through closing without hiring an agent for the full transaction. Some buyers and sellers use a combination—for example, selling with an agent but having an attorney review the final paperwork.

How to verify an agent's license and background

Before you hire any agent, you can verify their license through the South Carolina Real Estate Commission website. Search for the agent's name to confirm they hold a current license and to check whether there are any disciplinary actions or complaints on record.

You can also ask for references from past clients and check online reviews, though keep in mind that reviews are subjective and may not reflect your own experience. Ask the agent directly for contact information for recent clients you can speak with about their experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to use a real estate agent to buy or sell a home in South Carolina?

No. You can buy or sell without an agent, though you will handle marketing, showings, negotiations, and paperwork yourself. Many people hire an attorney instead of or in addition to an agent to review contracts and guide them through closing.

Can I work with multiple agents at the same time?

As a buyer, yes—unless you sign an exclusive buyer representation agreement. As a seller, you typically sign an exclusive listing agreement with one agent, which means only that agent can list and sell your property during the agreement period. Read your contract to confirm.

What if I want to end my agreement with an agent before the contract expires?

Check your contract for the terms. Some agreements allow you to end the relationship with written notice, while others may require you to pay a fee or may lock you in for the full term. Discuss this before you sign so you know your options.

How long does a real estate transaction typically take in South Carolina?

From offer to closing usually takes 30 to 45 days, though it can be faster or slower depending on inspections, appraisals, financing, and other factors. Your agent can give you a more specific timeline based on current market conditions and your particular situation.

What should I do if I have a problem with my agent?

First, try to resolve it directly with the agent. If that does not work, you can file a complaint with the South Carolina Real Estate Commission, which investigates violations of state real estate law and licensing rules.