What Thomas Realty & Appraisals Does and When You Need Them

Thomas Realty & Appraisals handles property valuation and real estate transactions in South Carolina

Thomas Realty & Appraisals is a South Carolina-based firm that combines two distinct services: real estate sales and property appraisals. The appraisal side values homes for lenders, buyers, and property owners—a critical step in most real estate transactions. The realty side helps buyers and sellers navigate the purchase or sale of residential property. Both services operate under one roof, which can streamline the process if you need both at once, though you can also use them separately.

The firm serves clients across South Carolina, and their dual focus means they understand local market conditions and property values in the regions where they work. Whether you're buying a home, selling one, refinancing, or simply need to know what your property is worth, this is the type of firm you'd contact to explore those options.

Key Takeaways

• Thomas Realty & Appraisals provides both property appraisals and real estate sales services, so you may be able to handle multiple needs through one firm.
• Property appraisals are required by lenders during mortgage approval and are used to determine a home's market value.
• Real estate agents at the firm can represent you as a buyer or seller and guide you through the transaction process.
• Appraisals and real estate sales are separate services with different costs and timelines, even when provided by the same company.

When you need a property appraisal

A property appraisal is a professional estimate of what a home is worth. Lenders require appraisals before they'll approve a mortgage—the appraisal protects the lender by confirming the property is worth at least what you're borrowing. If you're refinancing an existing mortgage, your lender will also order an appraisal to determine the current value of your home.

Appraisals are also useful if you're a homeowner who wants to know your property's current market value for tax purposes, estate planning, or simply curiosity about your home's worth. The appraiser will inspect the property, compare it to similar homes recently sold in the area, and produce a written report with their valuation.

The appraisal process typically takes one to two weeks from the time you request it. The appraiser will need access to the interior and exterior of the home, so you'll need to schedule a time for them to visit. Once complete, the report goes to the lender (if the lender ordered it) or to you (if you ordered it directly).

When you need real estate sales services

If you're buying a home, a real estate agent can help you search listings, schedule showings, make offers, and negotiate terms. If you're selling, an agent can list your property, market it to potential buyers, show it to interested parties, and help you evaluate and accept offers. Real estate agents in South Carolina must be licensed by the state and typically work under a brokerage firm—in this case, Thomas Realty & Appraisals.

Agents are compensated through commission, which is typically a percentage of the final sale price and is paid by the seller (though the amount is negotiable). This means you don't pay an agent directly out of pocket if you're the buyer; the seller's proceeds cover the commission. If you're the seller, the commission comes from your sale proceeds.

The timeline for selling a home varies widely depending on market conditions, your home's condition and price, and local demand. Buying typically takes as long as it takes to find the right property and close the loan, which can range from a few weeks to several months.

How appraisals and real estate sales differ

Even though Thomas Realty & Appraisals offers both services, they serve different purposes and operate on different timelines. An appraisal is a one-time valuation performed by a licensed appraiser; it's objective and focused solely on determining market value. A real estate agent's job is to represent your interests in a transaction—to help you buy or sell at the best terms possible. An agent may discuss value, but they're not providing an independent appraisal.

If you're buying a home and the appraisal comes in lower than the purchase price, that's a problem for your lender and may require you to renegotiate the price, put down more money, or walk away. An agent can help you navigate that conversation, but the appraisal itself is separate from the agent's role. Similarly, if you're selling and want to know what to list your home for, an agent will provide a market analysis based on comparable sales—this is not the same as a formal appraisal, though both inform pricing decisions.

How to contact Thomas Realty & Appraisals

To reach Thomas Realty & Appraisals, you'll need to contact them directly by phone or through their office. They operate in South Carolina, and their contact information should be available through a local business directory, their website, or by calling directory assistance for your area.

When you call, be clear about what you need: an appraisal, real estate sales representation, or both. If you need an appraisal, have your property address ready and be prepared to discuss the reason for the appraisal (mortgage, refinance, personal knowledge, etc.). If you need sales representation, you can discuss your timeline, your home's condition, or the type of property you're looking to purchase.

What to expect from the appraisal process

Once you've requested an appraisal, the firm will schedule the appraiser to visit your property. The appraiser will spend 30 minutes to an hour or more inspecting the home, taking measurements, photographing key areas, and noting the condition of the structure, systems, and finishes. They'll also research recent sales of comparable properties in your area to support their valuation.

After the inspection, the appraiser prepares a written report that includes the property description, the appraiser's valuation, and the comparable sales used to justify that valuation. The report is typically delivered within one to two weeks. If you ordered the appraisal directly (not through a lender), you'll receive a copy. If a lender ordered it, the lender receives it first, and you may request a copy from the lender.

What to expect from real estate representation

If you hire an agent from Thomas Realty & Appraisals to represent you as a buyer, they'll help you search for properties that match your criteria, schedule showings, and prepare offers. They'll also advise you on market conditions, comparable sales, and reasonable offer prices. Once you've made an offer and it's accepted, the agent will guide you through inspections, appraisals, and the closing process.

If you hire an agent to represent you as a seller, they'll list your property on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), market it through various channels, show it to interested buyers, and present offers to you. They'll also help you understand the terms of each offer and advise you on which to accept. Throughout the process, the agent is your advocate and should keep you informed of all developments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to use the same company for my appraisal and real estate agent?

No. You can use Thomas Realty & Appraisals for one service and another firm for the other. However, using the same company can be convenient because they already know your property and can coordinate timing. The choice depends on your comfort level with the firm and whether you want to consolidate your contacts.

How much does an appraisal cost?

Appraisal costs vary depending on the property's location, size, and complexity. If a lender orders the appraisal, they typically charge you an appraisal fee, which is added to your loan costs. If you order an appraisal independently, you'll pay the appraiser's fee directly. Contact Thomas Realty & Appraisals for their current pricing.

Can an appraisal be challenged if I disagree with the value?

Yes. If you believe the appraisal is inaccurate, you can request a reconsideration of value from the appraiser, providing additional information about your property or comparable sales they may have missed. Some lenders also allow you to order a second appraisal. Discuss your options with the appraiser or lender.

What happens if the appraisal is lower than the purchase price?

If you're buying and the appraisal is lower than your offer price, your lender will only loan up to the appraised value. You'll need to either renegotiate the price with the seller, increase your down payment, or walk away from the deal. Your real estate agent can help you navigate this conversation with the seller.

How long does it take to sell a home?

The time to sell depends on market conditions, your home's price and condition, and local demand. In a strong buyer's market, homes may sell in weeks. In a slower market, it can take months. Your agent can give you a realistic timeline based on current conditions in your area.