Few steps in the home-buying process are as stressful as the closing. While some jurisdictions refer to closing as “settlement” or “escrow,” it’s essentially the same wherever you go: that pivotal moment when all parties meet to transfer ownership of a home from seller to buyer, and all the money required to make that happen changes hands.

And if you got a mortgage, your lender will no doubt be involved, too. So what can go wrong that could stall this process? A whole lot, if you aren’t prepared!

Click here to read the full story.