I received my closing docs late wednesday of this week (4/6). The close date was 4/22. I asked the same question, and was told to get the stuff in as fast as possible. I wired the money and faxed the docs Thursday. The wire doesn't show up until the next day. I received an email yesterday stating that they had received everything they needed from me. I asked if the 4/22 date was set in stone, and was told no, they can/will close earlier assuming the seller gets the paperwork in. So, to answer your question, it appears they put sort of an arbitrary close date but will indeed close earlier if they have everything, but don't hesitate to pester them and certainly follow up after sending in anything to make sure it's been received.