Close before or after year end?

[Daniel Leake]

Hey,

I am purchasing my first owner-occupied (and first ever) home. Closing is currently set for December 28. Would there be any reason that the Realtor is trying to close before the end of the year, or any reason that I would want to wait and close in 2011?

I understand interest paid, points pre-paid, etc...can all be written off in whichever year they are paid in. Is there any additional benefit either way?

Thanks!