What does settlement (or closing) signify in a real estate transaction?

Settlement, often referred to as closing, signifies the conclusion of a real estate transaction. At this stage, all parties involved finalize the deal by signing the necessary documents, including the deed and mortgage. This is when the buyer officially takes ownership of the property, and the seller receives their proceeds from the sale. The process concludes a series of steps, including negotiations, inspections, and financing arrangements, culminating in the transfer of ownership and the proper recording of documents with the appropriate authorities.

The other options describe different phases or elements related to real estate transactions but do not capture the essence of what settlement represents. For instance, negotiating the sales price pertains to the discussions prior to entering the closing phase, while disbursement of funds and signing documents are actions that occur during the closing but are not representative of the overall purpose of settlement. Understanding that settlement marks the definitive close of the transaction is crucial for anyone involved in real estate to recognize the moment ownership is officially transferred.