FAQ
Straight answers
The questions Kansas City buyers text Tanner most, answered the way he'd answer them. Anything missing? It's a text away.
Working with the Garver Group
Who will I actually be talking to?
Tanner, mostly — he structures your loan and answers the big questions himself. Cam Walker, who is licensed in Kansas and Missouri, runs your file day to day and is often the fastest reply in the group text. Kimberlin keeps your agent in the loop. Three people, one file.
Do I have to come to the office?
No. Most clients never do. The conversation is a text or call, documents go through Fairway's secure portal, and closing happens at the title company. If you'd rather meet in person in Overland Park, that's welcome too.
Where is Tanner licensed?
Tanner is licensed in Kansas, Missouri, South Dakota & Wyoming, and the Garver Group closes loans on both the Kansas and Missouri sides of the Kansas City metro every month.
What does it cost to talk to Tanner?
Nothing. The conversation, the pre-approval, and the payment scenarios are free. You only pay lender-related costs if and when you close a loan, and every one of them appears on your Loan Estimate first.
Are the reviews real?
Yes — 978 of them across Experience.com and Google, collected after closing and verified by the platforms, not by us. The reviews page links straight to the sources so you can read every word.
The money
How much do I need for a down payment?
It depends on the program: 3% for many conventional first-time buyer loans, 3.5% for FHA, $0 for VA and USDA. Twenty percent is a choice that avoids mortgage insurance, not a requirement.
Can family help with my down payment?
Yes. Gift funds from family are allowed on most programs with a simple gift letter. Cam handles the documentation.
Do you offer down payment assistance?
The Garver Group works with the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation and Missouri Housing Development Commission programs for qualified buyers. Income and purchase-price limits apply; Tanner checks current eligibility for your county before you get your hopes up either way.
What if my credit isn't great?
Tell Tanner the score and the story. Many programs work in the 600s, and there are usually a few specific, fast steps that move a score before you apply. Nobody gets judged; everybody gets a plan.
Timing
How fast can I get pre-approved?
Often within a day or two of your documents arriving — sometimes the same day when an offer is on the line.
How long does it take to close?
Around thirty days from contract is typical for the Garver Group, and faster is often possible when a deal needs it. The work done up front at pre-approval is what makes the back half calm.
Should I wait for rates to come down?
Nobody can time rates — Tanner won't pretend to. Buy when the payment works for your life. If rates drop later, refinancing is one phone call; if they rise, you're glad you didn't wait.
When should I talk to a lender — before or after finding an agent?
Before, ideally. A pre-approval tells you and your agent exactly what to shop for, and Tanner is happy to recommend great Kansas City agents if you don't have one yet.
This is not an offer to enter into an agreement. Not all customers will qualify. Information, rates and programs are subject to change without notice. All products are subject to credit and property approval. Other restrictions and limitations may apply.
Got a question? Just text Tanner.
No pressure, no jargon, no obligation — a straight answer from a Kansas City lender who picks up the phone. Text, call, or apply whenever you're ready.