In Colorado the norm is to have the sellers, buyers, lender, and both agents at the closing table together. It's not done that way in many states where groups sign at different times and I think something is lost in those areas of the country. Depending upon the circumstances it happens here too: no sense putting Mr and Mrs newly divorced together in a small room or those folks that fought over the washer/ dryer until the end, but the norm is to all meet together and typically this is a pleasant situation and brings a sense of finality for a job well done.
I enjoy this interaction especially the opportunity to meet casually with the other agent involved. Today was such an occasion and as the closer diligently handled the shuffling of paperwork, I had an opportunity to lean over and thank the other agent for such a professional transaction. It's a time to share strategies and lessons learned knowing each has done their job to perfection when success for both parties has been accomplished.
The closing is also a great opportunity for sellers to remind buyers of little idiosyncrasies of their home, answer last minute questions, and see who the new caretakers are going to be of the place they so lovingly cherished. Buyers love to ensure sellers that they will carry the torch and maintain the property to the current level and beyond, share their future plans and dreams, as well as allow that moment of closure for the seller before their next endeavor. The exchanging of keys is a visual transition between owners that occurs at the closing table and can be one of the most positive memorable experiences for both parties leaving no doubt in this Realtor's mind that we have something special here with the way we have the Changing of the Guard at the closing table in Colorado.
