Closing day is a big deal! It's a culmination of all your hard work: getting your house ready to sell, going through the work of keeping it clean and staged for showings, and negotiating with your buyer. It's normal to be both excited and nervous about closing day, especially if you haven't closed on a property as the seller before.

Fortunately, things rarely go wrong on closing day, especially when you have our real estate agents guiding you through the process. Here is a rundown of everything you need to know about the big day.

From light beach reads to page-turning thrillers, getting lost in a book is the perfect way to spend a weekend afternoon. And with so many independent bookstores around Long Island, your new favorite novel might just be a few blocks away.

Long Island was home to many great authors, including F. Scott Fitzgerald, Truman Capote, and even poet Walt Whitman. This area's literary legacy lives on through our dozens of independent bookstores, which have become important community assets. These shops not only provide an excellent inventory of literature but also serve as neighborhood gathering spaces, promote learning, and host local events.

Summer on Long Island is in full swing, and the kids have been complaining that there's nothing to do. They've even gotten bored with video games! But parents, have no fear! A spacious backyard is a perfect venue for a summer fun fest, and our real estate agents have plenty of ideas to help make that happen. 

• Lawn Games
  While more popular with younger children, even teens may enjoy oversized dominos, Jenga, or throwing games such as ring toss and bean bags. Game pieces are a snap for the do-it-yourselfer with the proper tools. Pre-made options are available in a broad price range from about $15 to $50. Don't forget the popsicle or ice cream treats to cool down after the competition. An ice cream maker might be a hit!

Oil paintings may be impressive, but there are so many other artistic mediums out there that are just as beautiful. July is World Watercolor Month, so now is a great time to get better acquainted with this exquisite art form. According to our real estate agents, these five locations around Long Island are good places to begin.

• Nassau County Museum of Art - 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor, NY 11576
  Since its opening in 1969, the Nassau County Museum of Art has worked to showcase some of the finest works of American and European art. This includes many works from Barbara Prey, one of the most prominent American watercolor artists alive today. The museum also features rotating exhibits that often include at least a few pieces in watercolor.