Welcome to Coach’s Corner with Tim (Loan Partner) and Nathan “Coach” Kerpan (Mortgage Coach).
In this episode, we break down one of the most common (and costly) points of confusion in homebuying: pre-qualification vs pre-approval—what they actually mean, what’s missing from most “quick online letters,” and why it can matter most on Friday at 6pm when your dream home hits the market.
What you’ll learn:
What a pre-qualification really is (and why it’s often the credit phase) What a true pre-approval includes (income + documentation + underwriting realities)
Why some deals fall apart days before closing
The 3-step approach we use to help buyers get clarity with certainty
How we build a SMART Homeownership Analysis so your plan fits your goals and resources
If you’re buying, selling, renovating, or refinancing—and you want a plan you can trust—this episode will help you move forward with confidence.
Ready for your plan?
📞 Call or text: 314-551-9587 🌐 Connect online: www.BenchmarkMidAmerica.com NMLS: 230478
Question for you: What’s your biggest homebuying question right now—pre-approval, payments, credit, or next steps?
Drop it in the comments and we may cover it in a future episode.
Nathan “Coach” Kerpan NMLS: 230478
Disclosures: This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute a loan approval or a commitment to lend. Loan approval is subject to underwriting, credit, income, assets, property, and program guidelines. Terms and availability may vary.
CHAPTERS:
00:00 – Welcome to Coach’s Corner
00:25 – The #1 question: pre-qual vs pre-approval
01:20 – The “Friday at 6pm dream home” scenario
02:05 – What a pre-qualification really is (credit phase)
03:10 – Why a soft pull matters
04:05 – What pre-approval actually verifies (income + docs)
05:20 – Why deals fall apart right before closing
06:30 – Why sellers should scrutinize approval letters
07:35 – The Coach approach: clarity with certainty
08:40 – The 3-step process + what you need (the “5 crucial things”)
10:05 – SMART Homeownership Analysis (the strategic plan)
11:15 – Call to action + how to reach the team
11:45 – Wrap-up + comment prompt