Closing day refers to the date mutually agreed to by the seller and buyer for the transfer of funds, title and the keys (usually). This can be a stressful time for both parties considering that this may be the largest sale or purchase of a lifetime. A few essential preparations can make the transaction flow smoothly.

Buying a property requires good knowledge of market conditions, personal finances as well as the ability to judge what is a good investment. Equally important is being in a position to negotiate realistically when you do decide to make an offer. That comes of doing as much up-front thinking and preparation as you can before you are actually in the position of preparing a formal offer to purchase.