When it comes to buying a home, there are many important decisions that must be made. One of the most important is whether you want to buy through an agent or on your own. While this can save money in certain circumstances, it's important for buyers who choose the latter route to understand how they'll handle negotiations should any issues arise during closing process so as not put themselves at risk financially. This means understanding the basics of real estate contracts and communicating effectively with all parties involved throughout the transaction—from lenders and title companies to attorneys and inspectors. It also means being aware of local laws regarding inspection timelines and deposits, as well as knowing when you need an attorney's help in resolving disputes or negotiating changes before signing any documents. Taking these steps can go a long way toward ensuring a smooth closing process without costly mistakes or misunderstandings down the road.