Who ultimately determines the Closing Date in a property transaction?

The seller ultimately determines the Closing Date in a property transaction. This is because the seller has control over the timing for when the sale is finalized. While the buyer can express preferences or negotiate terms, and the title company will facilitate the closing process, it is the seller's timeline and requirements that typically dictate when the closing will occur.

In practice, the seller’s circumstances, such as their need to relocate, their own purchase timelines, or any contingencies related to their sale, can heavily influence the agreed-upon date. Buyers often work with sellers to come to a mutually beneficial date, but ultimately, the seller has the final say.

The title company does play a crucial role in the closing process, handling the logistics and paperwork, but it is not the entity that determines the date. The buyer’s wishes can certainly be a factor in determining the Closing Date, but they do not have the final authority over it. The Deed Recording Office is primarily responsible for recording the completed transactions and does not influence the agreement on closing dates.