Overview
When building loan scenarios in Deal Details, the software uses a visual cue called "Heavy Gray" to guide you through required fields. Any field outlined with a thick gray border requires input before you can proceed. Once you complete a required field, the heavy gray outline disappears, confirming your entry was accepted. This system helps you work efficiently without guessing which fields are mandatory.
Before You Start
Requirement | Details |
Active Deal | Open an existing deal or create a new one in Deal Details |
Screen Visibility | Ensure your display settings allow you to distinguish border weights (thick vs. thin outlines) |
How Heavy Gray Works
1. Recognize the Heavy Gray Indicator
When you enter a workflow section (such as creating a scenario), look for fields with a thick gray outline around them. This visual weight distinguishes required fields from optional ones.
Visual Cue | Meaning |
Heavy gray outline | Field requires your input to proceed |
Standard/thin outline | Field is optional |
No outline (after entry) | Field completed successfully |
2. Complete Required Selections
As you work through each screen, the heavy gray indicator guides your path:
Selection buttons (Purchase, Refinance, etc.) display heavy gray when you must choose one
After selecting an option, unselected choices disappear and the next required field highlights
The system narrows your focus to exactly what needs attention
⚠️ Important: You cannot advance to the next step until all heavy gray fields on the current screen are completed.
3. Watch the Indicator Disappear
Once you enter valid data into a required field, the heavy gray outline immediately disappears. This instant feedback confirms:
Your entry was accepted
You can move on to the next field
No further action needed on that item
Common Required Fields by Section
Deal Setup
Field | Why It's Required |
Transaction Type | Determines the entire workflow path (Purchase vs. Refinance) |
Occupancy Type | Affects rate pricing and loan eligibility |
Property State | Required for compliance and tax calculations |
Scenario Building
Field | Why It's Required |
Property Type | Existing vs. New Construction changes available options |
Interest Rate | Core calculation input for all payment scenarios |
Closing Date | Determines prepaid interest and timeline calculations |
Optional Fields to Know
Not every field displays heavy gray. These common fields are typically optional:
Phone number
Origination fee
Discount points
Lender credit
💡 Tip: Optional fields still accept input and can enhance your scenarios. The absence of heavy gray simply means you can skip them if needed.
Quick Reference
Enter screen → Scan for heavy gray outlines → Complete required fields → Gray disappears → Proceed to next section
Tips for Success
Scan top to bottom when entering a new screen to catch all heavy gray fields at once
Trust the system if a field has no heavy gray outline, it's safe to skip
Check your work if you can't proceed, look for any remaining heavy gray indicators you may have missed
Use tab navigation to move between fields quickly; the cursor will land on required fields in logical order
Related Topics
Creating a New Loan Scenario
Navigating Deal Details
Entering Property Information
Setting Up Interest Rate Comparisons