What MAJ Real Estate Does and How to Work With Them in South Carolina
MAJ Real Estate is a South Carolina brokerage serving residential and commercial property transactions
MAJ Real Estate is a licensed real estate brokerage operating in South Carolina that handles buying, selling, and leasing of residential and commercial properties. The firm works with individual buyers and sellers, investors, and businesses looking to purchase or lease space. Like all South Carolina brokerages, MAJ Real Estate agents must hold active licenses issued by the South Carolina Real Estate Commission and follow state and federal fair housing laws.
The brokerage operates within South Carolina's real estate market, where transactions are governed by state law and local regulations that vary by county. If you are buying or selling property in South Carolina, a real estate agent from MAJ or another brokerage can represent you through the process, but you are not required to use an agent—you can also buy or sell on your own.
Key Takeaways
- MAJ Real Estate is a licensed South Carolina brokerage that represents buyers, sellers, and commercial clients in property transactions.
- Real estate agents in South Carolina must hold active licenses from the South Carolina Real Estate Commission and follow fair housing and disclosure laws.
- You can work with MAJ Real Estate or any licensed brokerage, or you can buy or sell property without an agent if you choose to do so.
- Commission rates, contract terms, and service scope vary by agent and transaction, so it is worth discussing expectations and fees before signing any agreement.
- South Carolina requires sellers to disclose known defects in the property, and buyers have the right to inspect and negotiate repairs or credits.
How real estate agents represent buyers and sellers
When you hire a real estate agent or brokerage to represent you, the agent acts as your advocate in the transaction. For sellers, an agent typically lists the property, markets it to other agents and the public, shows it to potential buyers, and negotiates offers on your behalf. For buyers, an agent searches for properties that match your needs, arranges showings, helps you understand market conditions and pricing, and negotiates the purchase contract.
In South Carolina, most residential real estate transactions involve two agents—one representing the seller and one representing the buyer. The seller's agent and buyer's agent typically split a commission, which is usually a percentage of the sale price. The exact commission rate is negotiable and not set by law; it varies by agent, brokerage, and market. Commission is paid by the seller at closing, but the amount and split are matters you can discuss and negotiate.
Agents must disclose who they represent. If an agent shows you a property listed by their own brokerage, they may represent both the buyer and seller (called dual agency), which creates a conflict of interest. South Carolina law allows dual agency, but the agent must disclose it in writing and both parties must consent. Many buyers and sellers prefer to work with agents who represent only their side.
What to expect in a South Carolina property transaction
A typical residential purchase in South Carolina begins with an offer. Once the seller accepts your offer, you enter a contract period during which you can inspect the property, order a survey, obtain financing, and review title documents. South Carolina law does not set a standard inspection period—the contract terms determine how long you have and what happens if you find problems.
The seller must disclose known defects in the property in writing. This disclosure is separate from a professional home inspection; it is the seller's statement of what they know about the condition of the house, roof, plumbing, electrical systems, and other major components. You have the right to hire a home inspector to examine the property and report on its condition. If the inspection reveals problems, you can negotiate with the seller to repair them, offer a credit toward repairs, or renegotiate the price.
Financing, title search, and closing typically take 30 to 45 days from the accepted offer. During this time, your lender orders an appraisal, the title company searches public records to confirm ownership and identify liens, and both parties prepare closing documents. At closing, you sign the deed, mortgage (if you are borrowing), and other documents, and funds transfer to the seller.
Commercial property and investment transactions
MAJ Real Estate also handles commercial property sales and leases. Commercial transactions follow different rules and timelines than residential sales. Commercial properties are often sold or leased as-is, meaning the buyer or tenant accepts the property in its current condition. Inspection periods, repair negotiations, and financing terms are typically more flexible and are negotiated case by case.
Commercial leases in South Carolina can range from short-term (month to month) to long-term (5, 10, or 20 years). Lease terms, rent amounts, who pays for maintenance and utilities, and renewal options are all negotiable. If you are leasing commercial space, an agent can help you understand market rates, negotiate terms, and review the lease before you sign.
Finding and contacting MAJ Real Estate
To learn more about MAJ Real Estate's services, you can search for their office location and contact information through the South Carolina Real Estate Commission website or through local real estate directories. When you contact a brokerage, ask which agents specialize in your type of transaction—residential sales, commercial leasing, investment properties, or a specific geographic area.
Before you commit to working with any agent or brokerage, discuss your needs, timeline, and expectations. Ask about their experience in your market, how they market properties (if you are selling), what services they provide, and how they communicate with clients. You are not obligated to sign a contract with the first agent you speak with.
Your rights as a buyer or seller in South Carolina
South Carolina law gives buyers and sellers specific rights in real estate transactions. Sellers must disclose known defects and cannot misrepresent the property. Buyers have the right to inspect the property, order a survey, and review all documents before closing. Both parties have the right to legal representation—you can hire a real estate attorney to review contracts and protect your interests, though it is not required.
If a dispute arises during a transaction—for example, over repairs, inspection findings, or title issues—you can negotiate with the other party, ask your agent or attorney to mediate, or walk away if the contract allows it. Real estate contracts in South Carolina typically include contingencies that let you exit the deal under certain conditions, such as if the inspection reveals major problems or if financing falls through.
Licensing and complaint procedures
All real estate agents and brokers in South Carolina must be licensed by the South Carolina Real Estate Commission. You can verify an agent's license status on the Commission's website. If you have a complaint about an agent's conduct—for example, if they misrepresented a property, failed to disclose a conflict of interest, or violated fair housing laws—you can file a complaint with the Commission. The Commission investigates complaints and can take disciplinary action, including suspending or revoking a license.
Fair housing laws prohibit discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or familial status. If you believe an agent has discriminated against you, you can file a complaint with the Commission or with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to use a real estate agent to buy or sell property in South Carolina?
No. You can buy or sell property on your own without an agent. However, agents have access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), which lists most properties for sale, and they know local market conditions and legal requirements. Many people find an agent's help valuable, especially in their first transaction.
What is the commission rate, and who pays it?
Commission rates are negotiable and vary by agent and brokerage. There is no set rate by law. Typically, the seller pays the total commission at closing, which is then split between the seller's agent and the buyer's agent. You can negotiate the commission rate before signing a listing agreement or buyer representation agreement.
Can I negotiate the terms of a real estate contract?
Yes. Nearly every term in a real estate contract is negotiable, including the price, inspection period, repair requests, closing date, and contingencies. Your agent or attorney can help you propose terms and respond to counteroffers from the other party.
What happens if the home inspection finds problems?
You can ask the seller to repair the problems, offer a credit toward repairs, or reduce the purchase price. The seller can agree, refuse, or offer a partial solution. If you cannot reach agreement, you may be able to walk away from the contract, depending on the inspection contingency language.
How long does a real estate transaction take in South Carolina?
From accepted offer to closing typically takes 30 to 45 days for a residential purchase. The timeline depends on financing, inspection, title search, and how quickly both parties respond to requests. Commercial transactions may take longer, depending on the complexity and the parties' needs.