Asked & answered

No. Conversations, pre-approvals, and payment scenarios are all free. Rob is compensated when a loan closes — asking questions costs you nothing and obligates you to nothing.

Text him at 612-230-1395 — it's genuinely the fastest channel. Calls and email (rob.daul@fairwaymc.com) work great too. Whatever channel you start with, you'll get Rob, not a call center.

Not at all. "Someday" buyers are welcome. Some of the most valuable conversations happen a year before anyone shops for a house — knowing your starting point early gives you time to improve it.

Rob is based at Fairway's Eden Prairie branch and is licensed in Minnesota, serving buyers across the Twin Cities metro and the state. If your situation involves another state, he can point you to the right licensed colleague at Fairway.

As low as 3% on conventional loans for qualified first-time buyers, 3.5% on FHA, and $0 on VA and USDA loans. Minnesota Housing down payment assistance can reduce your cash-to-close further. 20% down is a choice, not a requirement.

That's the founding question of this website — the calculator gives you a complete estimate including taxes, insurance and PMI, and Rob turns estimates into exact figures for your scenario. Payment depends on price, down payment, rate, term, taxes, and insurance.

Fees to complete the loan and transfer the home — typically 2–3% of the loan amount. Buyers usually pay them, but seller credits, lender credits, and assistance programs can offset them. Rob shows you the full picture before you commit to anything.

Yes — gift funds from family are allowed on most programs with a simple gift letter. It's one of the most common ways first-time buyers close the gap, and Rob walks both you and your family through the paperwork.

Often within a day or two of submitting your documents through Fairway's secure portal. If you have a house tour this weekend and no pre-approval, text Rob today — speed is genuinely possible when it matters.

Typically about 30–45 days from accepted offer to keys, depending on the transaction. Rob's team keeps your file moving and keeps you updated at every milestone.

Nobody can predict rates — anyone who claims otherwise is guessing. The honest framework: buy when the payment fits your budget and your life. If rates fall later, refinancing exists; if they rise, you're protected.

No. A pre-approval is information, not a contract. You can shop other lenders, change your mind, or wait a year. It simply tells you — and sellers — what you can do.