Seven steps from renting to keys.

Buying a first home feels complicated because nobody shows you the whole path at once. Here it is — the exact sequence our buyers follow, in both states.

1. 1

   Talk to us first (before the apps)

   A 15-minute call tells you your real budget, which programs fit, and what — if anything — needs fixing first. Free, no commitment, no credit pull required to start the conversation.

2. 2

   Get pre-approved

   Send your documents through Fairway's secure portal. Within 1–2 business days you have a pre-approval letter that listing agents take seriously — because we back it with a phone call.

3. 3

   Stack your assistance

   MN Housing or WHEDA, county funds, USDA eligibility, gift funds — we layer every dollar of help you qualify for and show you the final cash-to-close number.

4. 4

   Shop with live numbers

   Every house you like, we re-run the payment. Nights and weekends included — because that's when you're actually out looking.

5. 5

   Offer with backup

   When you write an offer, we update your numbers, refresh the letter for the exact price, and call the listing agent to vouch for your financing. Your offer lands stronger.

6. 6

   Processing without the panic

   Kate takes your file from accepted offer to clear-to-close: documents, appraisal, underwriting, title. You get updates before you think to ask for them.

7. 7

   Close and get the keys

   A final walkthrough of the numbers days before closing — no surprises at the table. Then you sign, and it's yours.