What to Know About Merritt & Company Real Estate in South Carolina

Merritt & Company is a South Carolina real estate firm serving buyers, sellers, and investors across the state

Merritt & Company operates as a real estate brokerage in South Carolina, handling residential sales, purchases, and property transactions. The firm works with individual buyers and sellers as well as investors looking to build or manage portfolios. Like other brokerages in the state, they are subject to South Carolina's real estate licensing requirements and operate under the oversight of the South Carolina Real Estate Commission.

The company's services typically include listing properties for sale, representing buyers in purchase negotiations, and providing market analysis to help clients understand property values in their area. Real estate brokerages in South Carolina must maintain active licenses and follow state and federal fair housing laws, which prohibit discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or familial status.

Key Takeaways

• Merritt & Company is a licensed South Carolina real estate brokerage offering services to buyers, sellers, and investors statewide.
• The firm can provide market analysis, property listings, and representation during purchase or sale transactions.
• All South Carolina real estate brokerages must hold active licenses from the South Carolina Real Estate Commission and follow state and federal fair housing laws.
• Working with a real estate agent typically involves a commission agreement that outlines costs and the agent's responsibilities to you.
• You can verify any agent's license status through the South Carolina Real Estate Commission's public records.

What real estate brokerages do in South Carolina

A real estate brokerage like Merritt & Company acts as an intermediary between buyers and sellers. For sellers, the brokerage lists the property on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), markets it to other agents and the public, schedules showings, and negotiates offers. For buyers, agents represent your interests by searching available properties, arranging viewings, and negotiating purchase terms on your behalf.

Brokerages also provide comparative market analysis (CMA), which shows what similar properties in your area have sold for recently. This helps both buyers and sellers understand fair market value. In South Carolina, real estate transactions typically close through a title company or attorney, who handles the legal paperwork, title search, and transfer of funds—services separate from what the brokerage provides.

How commissions and fees work

Real estate commissions in South Carolina are negotiable and not set by law or the state commission. When you list a property, you and the brokerage agree on a commission rate, usually expressed as a percentage of the final sale price. This commission is typically split between the listing agent's brokerage and the buyer's agent's brokerage, though the exact split varies by transaction.

As a buyer, you generally do not pay a commission directly—the seller's proceeds cover both sides of the transaction. However, you should always ask your agent to explain how compensation works before you begin working together. Some agents may charge flat fees, hourly rates, or other arrangements depending on the services you need. Get any agreement in writing before you start.

Verifying a real estate agent's license

Before working with any agent at Merritt & Company or elsewhere in South Carolina, you can verify their license status through the South Carolina Real Estate Commission website. The Commission maintains a public database where you can search by agent name or license number to confirm the license is active and in good standing.

An active license means the agent has met the state's education and testing requirements and is authorized to conduct real estate transactions. If an agent's license is expired, suspended, or revoked, that information will appear in the database. This is a free public record and takes only a few minutes to check.

What to expect during a real estate transaction

Once you sign a listing agreement with a brokerage or agree to work with a buyer's agent, the process typically unfolds in stages. For sellers, the agent lists the property, shows it to other agents and buyers, presents offers, and negotiates terms. For buyers, the agent searches for properties matching your criteria, arranges showings, and helps you make and negotiate an offer.

After an offer is accepted, a title company or real estate attorney takes over the closing process. They order a title search, arrange inspections if you request them, coordinate with your lender, and prepare closing documents. The real estate agent's role during closing is typically limited to ensuring the transaction stays on track and answering questions about the sale terms you already agreed to.

Understanding your rights as a buyer or seller

South Carolina law requires real estate agents to disclose their representation—whether they represent the buyer, the seller, or both parties (called dual agency). Before you sign any paperwork, your agent must tell you in writing who they represent. This matters because an agent's legal duty is to their client, and you should know whose interests come first.

You also have the right to work with any licensed agent you choose, and no agent can force you into an exclusive agreement. If you sign an exclusive buyer or seller agreement, read it carefully to understand how long it lasts and what happens if you want to end it. South Carolina's real estate laws also protect you from discrimination—agents cannot refuse to show you properties or treat you differently based on protected characteristics.

Questions to ask before hiring a real estate agent

When you first meet with an agent from Merritt & Company or any brokerage, ask how long they have been licensed, what areas they know well, and how many transactions they completed in the past year. Ask about their marketing strategy if you are selling, or their search process if you are buying. Request references from past clients if possible.

Ask directly about commission rates or fees, what services are included, and what happens if you want to end the relationship early. Ask whether they will represent you exclusively or if they also represent other clients in your area. Get everything in writing—your listing agreement, buyer representation agreement, or any other contract—before you sign.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if a real estate agent is licensed in South Carolina?

Visit the South Carolina Real Estate Commission website and use their public license search tool. Enter the agent's name or license number to see if their license is active and in good standing. This is free and takes just a few minutes.

Can I negotiate the real estate commission?

Yes. Commissions are negotiable in South Carolina and not set by law. Discuss rates with the brokerage before you sign a listing or buyer agreement. Different brokerages and agents may offer different rates or fee structures.

What is the difference between a real estate agent and a real estate broker?

A broker is licensed to own or operate a real estate brokerage and supervise agents. An agent works under a broker's license. Both must be licensed by South Carolina, but a broker has additional education and responsibilities. Merritt & Company is a brokerage, meaning it is owned or operated by a broker.

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 (called "for sale by owner" or FSBO). However, you will still need a title company or attorney to handle the closing and legal paperwork. Many buyers and sellers use agents because they have access to the MLS and market knowledge.

What should I do if I have a complaint about a real estate agent?

Contact the South Carolina Real Estate Commission with details about the complaint. The Commission investigates violations of state real estate law and licensing rules. You can also consult a real estate attorney if you believe you have been harmed by an agent's actions.