We Know Real Estate. Let Us Teach You!

It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Chip Browne, President and Owner of the Real Estate School of South Carolina. For decades, Chip dedicated his life to preparing more students for success in South Carolina real estate than anyone else — a legacy that simply cannot be matched.

Licensed since 1978, Chip began teaching in 1982 alongside his father, the late Col. Charles H. “Charlie” Browne, who founded our school. Together, they built an institution that has shaped the careers of thousands across our state and beyond. Known for his unmatched knowledge and his ability to connect with both beginners and seasoned professionals, Chip quickly earned a reputation as one of South Carolina’s most respected real estate educators. His teaching reached far beyond our classrooms, with opportunities to instruct students across South Carolina, Florida, and even abroad. He was honored to be invited by a major international developer to teach Florida agents at the prestigious $150 million Club at Hammock Beach Resort in St. Augustine.

Chip’s contributions extended beyond the classroom. He authored South Carolina Real Estate Principles, reviewed national real estate education texts, and served as a founding member of the American Association of Real Estate Schools and Colleges. In 2011, he lent his expertise as a member of the South Carolina Real Estate Commission’s License Law Task Force, helping shape the very standards of the profession he loved.

A graduate of Clemson University, Chip’s academic work included advanced studies in Constitutional Law and Political Science. Outside of his professional life, he embraced adventure and joy — from scuba diving in exotic waters to cultivating tropical gardens, and as an active member of the Ferrari Club of North America.

Chip’s passing leaves a profound void, but his influence continues through the thousands of students he taught, the colleagues he inspired, and the school he helped shape alongside his father. His commitment, brilliance, and love for teaching will forever remain at the heart of the Real Estate School of South Carolina.

Melissa Sprouse Browne is the President and Owner of the Real Estate School of South Carolina, where she leads the state’s second-oldest real estate school into its next chapter while honoring the legacy of its founder, Col. Charles “Charlie” Browne, and her late husband, Chip Browne. Under her leadership, the school continues its nearly 50-year tradition of excellence, offering South Carolina’s most complete package of in-person, live virtual, and self-paced courses supported by top-tier instructors and study aids.

Melissa is also the Owner and Broker-in-Charge of South Carolina Realty, LLC, where she has been licensed since 1999 and consistently ranks among the top 15% of real estate professionals statewide. She actively represents both residential and commercial clients across the Midlands and beyond.

With more than 25 years of experience in marketing, advertising, and public relations, Melissa has held roles as Creative Director for a multi-million-dollar advertising agency, Regional Marketing Director for Trane Comfort Solutions, Publications Manager for the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce, and Marketing Director for one of the East Coast’s largest real estate firms. She also founded The Marketing Division, a full-service advertising agency. In addition, she previously owned Cora Care and Seniors First Home Care, both dedicated to providing quality in-home care services.

Today, Melissa continues her commitment to seniors and caregivers as the host of The Senior Care Show, a program featuring stories, resources, and advice on aging with grace.

A graduate of the University of South Carolina in Criminal Justice, with additional studies in Healthcare Administration at California Coast University, Melissa blends her expertise in real estate, business, and senior care to serve both her students and her community with innovation, compassion, and integrity.