The closing table is the ideal place to sign papers, trade keys, and drink a
toast to the new homeowners. Sometimes that setting is filled with tension and
pressure as each side tries to work out important details of the transaction at
the last minute.
How can you help make your closing a relaxed and happy one? First, try to get
the details worked out ahead of time. There may be a few unresolved issues, such
as repairs that were not completed, a disappearing dining room chandelier or a
pre- or post-closing occupancy agreement. The atmosphere doesn't need to become
adversarial, and minor upsets should not threaten the entire transaction. If you
anticipate a problem, no matter how minor it may seem, be sure to communicate
the situation to your Realtor in advance, so that it can be handled before it
has a chance to escalate.
