FIRST-TIME HOME BUYERS
The First-Home Ready-to-Buy Workbook
A preapproval number is a starting point. A useful buying plan also explains what you may spend, what cash you need and what still has to happen before closing.
Turn a broad homebuying goal into a short list of decisions and questions you can work through with Grant.
Instant access. No email required. Two pages, including a printable worksheet.
Request my first-home plan
The options to discuss
| Stage | Your task | Ask Grant |
|---|---|---|
| Before touring | Set a monthly comfort zone and cash cushion. | What price and loan options should we review? |
| Before an offer | Discuss the property, deadlines and remaining conditions. | What changes in the financing picture for this home? |
| Before closing | Review final documents and verified payment instructions. | What is still outstanding, and when is it due? |
Start with comfort, not a maximum
Write down the housing cost that fits your life and the savings you want to preserve. Leave room for moving, repairs, utilities and other ongoing spending. Bring the target to Grant before building your home search around a maximum.
Separate the cash buckets
Plan for funds needed before closing, the remaining cash due at closing and the cushion afterward. Earnest money already paid may be credited in the closing calculation. Ask for a breakdown so you do not count the same money twice.
Understand what has been reviewed
Ask which documents support your preapproval, what conditions remain, how long it is valid and what changes could affect it. A preapproval is not a final commitment to lend; the property and remaining requirements still matter.
Make the handoffs clear
Agree on how you, your agent and Grant will communicate. Keep an outstanding-items list with an owner and due date. Verify wire instructions through a trusted contact method before moving money; do not rely on an unexpected email change.
Your conversation worksheet
Use these prompts to prepare. Grant will build your scenarios personally after speaking with you.
Target town / intended move date
Comfortable monthly housing budget
Cash for purchase / cash to keep afterward
Income-documentation type to discuss
Current lease / notice deadline / other timing needs
Questions about preapproval and remaining conditions
Agent selected? / help coordinating introductions?
Next step / responsible person / due date
Before your conversation
- Prepare your questions before shopping intensely.
- Ask how taxes, insurance and HOA change the payment.
- Use the secure application process for financial documents.
- Tell Grant before making significant credit or employment changes.
- Review your closing documents and resolve discrepancies.
Common questions
Do I need an agent before talking with Grant?
You can start a financing conversation before choosing an agent or property.
Will this workbook approve me?
No. It helps you prepare for the personal review and application process.
Request my first-home plan
Tell Grant what you are planning. He will review your goals, discuss the next steps and prepare your financing options personally.
Please use the secure process Grant provides for financial documents. This guide does not determine eligibility or produce a quote.
Further reading
YOUR GOALS. A CLEARER PLAN.
Let’s put your next move in focus.
A home, a refinance or an investment. Start with a conversation about what matters to you.