What to Expect When Working With Weichert Realtors Five Star—Cathy Horton Whiteside

Weichert Realtors Five Star is a full-service real estate office in South Carolina led by broker Cathy Horton Whiteside

Weichert Realtors Five Star operates as an independent franchise within the national Weichert network, meaning it uses Weichert's systems and brand but is locally owned and managed. Cathy Horton Whiteside, the broker, oversees the office and its agents. The office handles residential sales, purchases, and rentals across South Carolina markets, with particular presence in the Midlands and surrounding regions.

The office provides standard real estate services: listing homes for sale, representing buyers in purchase transactions, managing rental properties, and connecting clients with mortgage lenders and title companies. Like other Weichert franchises, Five Star has access to the national Weichert marketing platform, multiple listing services (MLS), and training resources, but day-to-day operations and client relationships are managed locally.

Key Takeaways

• Weichert Realtors Five Star is a locally owned franchise led by broker Cathy Horton Whiteside that handles home sales, purchases, and rentals across South Carolina.
• The office uses Weichert's national systems and marketing tools while operating independently in your local market.
• You can contact the office directly to discuss your specific real estate needs, whether buying, selling, or renting.
• As with any real estate transaction, you should understand the agent's role, commission structure, and what services are included before signing any agreement.

How Weichert Realtors Five Star Handles Home Sales

When you list a home with an agent from this office, the agent prepares a listing that goes into the MLS—the database that other agents and brokers use to show homes to their buyers. The listing includes photos, property details, price, and terms. Weichert's national marketing platform also distributes the listing to national real estate websites where buyers search.

The agent's job is to market the property, show it to interested buyers and their agents, negotiate offers, and guide you through inspection, appraisal, and closing. Commission is typically paid by the seller at closing and is split between the seller's agent and the buyer's agent. The exact percentage varies by transaction and is negotiable—it is not set by Weichert or any regulatory body.

Buying a Home Through This Office

If you are looking to purchase, an agent from Five Star can show you homes listed anywhere in the MLS, not just those listed by Weichert agents. The agent represents your interests, helps you understand the local market, and negotiates on your behalf. You do not pay the buyer's agent directly; that commission comes from the seller's proceeds at closing.

Before making an offer, the agent should explain what inspections and appraisals are, how contingencies work, and what happens if the appraisal comes in lower than the purchase price. They should also connect you with a lender if you need financing. The agent's role is to guide the transaction, but you are responsible for understanding the terms and making the final decision on any offer.

Rental Property Management and Leasing

Weichert Realtors Five Star also manages rental properties and leases residential units. If you own a rental property, the office can list it, screen tenants, collect rent, handle maintenance coordination, and manage the lease. If you are looking to rent, agents can show you available properties and explain lease terms.

Rental management fees and lease terms vary. Before signing a property management agreement, ask what is included—some offices handle all maintenance calls, while others require owners to arrange repairs. Understand the fee structure, how often you will receive statements, and what happens if a tenant breaks the lease early.

Understanding Commission and Costs

Real estate commissions are negotiable and not fixed by law or by Weichert. In most South Carolina transactions, the seller pays commission, which is then split between the seller's agent and the buyer's agent. The typical range is 5 to 6 percent of the sale price, but this can be higher or lower depending on the market, the property, and what you negotiate.

Beyond commission, you may encounter costs for title insurance, appraisals, inspections, and closing fees. These are separate from the agent's commission and vary by lender and closing attorney. Ask your agent to explain each cost before you commit to a transaction.

Contacting Weichert Realtors Five Star

To reach this office, search for "Weichert Realtors Five Star" and Cathy Horton Whiteside's name online, or ask for a referral from someone who has worked with the office. You can call to discuss your real estate needs—whether you are selling, buying, or renting—and ask to speak with an agent who handles your area or property type.

When you first contact the office, have a clear sense of what you need: Are you selling a home? Buying in a specific neighborhood? Looking to rent? The agent can then explain their process, answer your questions, and let you know what information they will need from you to move forward.

What to Ask Before You Hire an Agent

Before signing a listing agreement or buyer representation agreement, ask the agent several questions. How long have they worked in your area? What is their experience with your type of property? What is the commission rate, and is it negotiable? How often will they communicate with you, and through what channels? What happens if you want to end the agreement early?

Also ask whether the agent works full-time in real estate or part-time, and whether they handle all aspects of the transaction or work with a team. Understanding these details helps you decide whether this agent is the right fit for your situation.

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 use agents because they have market knowledge, access to the MLS, and experience with contracts and closing procedures. If you choose to work with an agent, you can interview multiple agents before deciding.

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

A broker holds a higher license and can own or manage a real estate office. Agents work under a broker's license. Cathy Horton Whiteside is the broker at Five Star, meaning she oversees the office and its agents. When you work with an agent from the office, you are ultimately working under that broker's supervision.

Can I negotiate the commission rate?

Yes. Commission is not set by law or by Weichert—it is negotiable between you and the agent. Rates vary by market and transaction. If you are unhappy with the rate quoted, you can ask for a lower percentage or shop around with other offices before deciding.

What happens if my home does not sell?

If your home is listed but does not sell before the listing agreement expires, the agreement ends and you are free to relist with another agent or try selling on your own. You do not owe commission if the home does not sell. However, you may want to discuss with your agent why the home did not sell and what might change for a second attempt.

How long does a real estate transaction typically take?

From offer to closing usually takes 30 to 45 days, though it can be faster or slower depending on financing, inspections, appraisals, and any issues that come up. Your agent should give you a timeline based on your specific situation and the lender's requirements.