What to Know About Working With Todd Holmes at Keller Williams Realty
Who Todd Holmes is and what he does
Todd Holmes is a real estate agent with Keller Williams Realty who works with buyers and sellers in South Carolina. Like other agents in the Keller Williams network, he helps clients navigate property transactions—whether that means listing a home for sale, searching for a property to purchase, or understanding the steps involved in closing a deal.
Keller Williams is one of the largest real estate franchises in the United States, with offices across South Carolina. Agents within the network operate under the same brand but may serve different geographic areas and specialize in different types of properties or transactions.
Key Takeaways
- Todd Holmes works as a real estate agent through Keller Williams Realty, helping clients buy and sell property in South Carolina.
- Real estate agents typically earn commission based on the sale price of a property, so their payment comes from the transaction itself, not from you upfront.
- Before working with any agent, you should understand what services they offer, which areas they serve, and how they communicate with clients.
- Keller Williams agents have access to the local Multiple Listing Service (MLS), which shows available properties and helps market homes for sale.
How real estate agents work in South Carolina
Real estate agents in South Carolina must hold a license issued by the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (SCDHEC). This license means the agent has passed an exam and agreed to follow state real estate laws. However, a license does not may provide experience, specialization, or success—it is a baseline credential.
Agents typically earn money through commission, which is a percentage of the final sale price. The seller's agent and buyer's agent split this commission, and it is paid only when a sale closes. This means an agent has no upfront cost to you; their payment depends on completing a transaction.
When you work with an agent to sell a home, they list it on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), which other agents and their clients can search. When you work with an agent to buy, they can show you properties from the MLS and help you make an offer. The agent also handles paperwork, coordinates inspections and appraisals, and communicates with the other party's agent throughout the process.
What to ask before choosing an agent
Before deciding to work with Todd Holmes or any agent, ask what areas they serve and what types of properties they typically handle. Some agents focus on residential homes, others on commercial property or land. Some specialize in a particular neighborhood or price range. Knowing their focus helps you decide if they are a fit for your situation.
Ask how they communicate—whether by phone, text, email, or a client portal—and how often you can expect to hear from them. Ask whether they work full-time in real estate or part-time. Ask how long they have been licensed and how many transactions they have closed in the past year. These details give you a sense of their availability and track record.
You can also ask for references from past clients. A willingness to provide names of people they have worked with is a good sign. If an agent refuses or seems evasive, that is worth noting.
How to verify an agent's license and background
You can verify that Todd Holmes holds a current real estate license by visiting the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation website and searching the license database. This search shows whether the license is active, when it was issued, and whether there are any disciplinary actions on record.
The database is public and free to search. If you cannot find an agent's name or if the license shows as inactive or expired, do not work with them. An active license is a requirement, not an option.
You can also search the agent's name online along with "reviews" or "complaints" to see what past clients have said. Real estate review sites, Google, and the Better Business Bureau all host client feedback. Keep in mind that reviews are subjective—one person's experience may not match yours—but patterns across multiple reviews can be informative.
Understanding commission and costs
Real estate commission in South Carolina is negotiable, not set by law. The typical range is 5 to 6 percent of the sale price, split between the seller's agent and the buyer's agent, but this varies by transaction and by agent. If you are selling, you can negotiate the commission rate before signing a listing agreement. If you are buying, you typically do not pay commission directly—it comes from the seller's proceeds.
Beyond commission, there are other costs in a real estate transaction: inspection fees, appraisal fees, title search and insurance, property taxes, and closing costs. These are separate from the agent's commission and vary depending on the property and the lender. Your agent should explain what costs to expect, but they are not the same as the agent's fee.
What happens after you contact an agent
When you first reach out to Todd Holmes or another agent, they will likely ask you questions about what you are looking for—whether you want to buy or sell, what your timeline is, and what your budget or price range is. This conversation helps them understand whether they can help you and whether you are a good fit for each other.
If you are selling, the agent will usually schedule a time to visit your home, take photos, and discuss pricing strategy. If you are buying, they will ask about your preferences and start showing you properties. In both cases, the agent will explain the next steps and what paperwork you will need to provide.
You are never obligated to work with the first agent you contact. It is reasonable to speak with multiple agents, ask questions, and choose the one you feel most comfortable with. Real estate is a significant transaction, and your agent is your guide through it—picking someone you trust matters.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if an agent is right for me?
Look for an agent who is licensed, communicates clearly, knows the area where you want to buy or sell, and has recent transaction experience. You should feel comfortable asking them questions and confident they understand your situation. If something feels off in your first conversation, it is fine to talk to another agent.
Can I negotiate the commission rate?
Yes. Commission is negotiable in South Carolina. If you are selling, discuss the rate before you sign a listing agreement. If you are buying, the commission typically comes from the seller's side, but you can ask your agent about their terms upfront.
What if I want to work with an agent but I am not ready to buy or sell yet?
Many agents are happy to answer questions and provide information even if you are not ready to move forward immediately. You can reach out to Todd Holmes or another agent to learn about the market, get a sense of home values in your area, or understand the process. There is no cost to these conversations.
What should I do if I have a problem with an agent?
Start by talking directly to the agent about your concern. If that does not resolve it, contact the brokerage (in this case, Keller Williams) and ask to speak with a manager. If you believe the agent violated state law or ethical rules, you can file a complaint with the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation.
Do I need an agent to buy or sell property in South Carolina?
No. You can buy or sell without an agent, though it is less common. Selling without an agent means you handle marketing, showing, and negotiation yourself. Buying without an agent means you find properties on your own and negotiate directly with the seller's agent. Most people use an agent because they have expertise and access to the MLS, but it is not required by law.