Engaging hard money lenders - order of operations

[Christopher Rucks]

Hello, Bigger Pocketers

I'm ironing out some of the remaining logistics before I start submitting offers to acquire my first property. I'm trying to understand some things about hard money lenders, as I plan to begin with the brrrr method first.

- When do I engage a hard money lender? Right after I submit an offer? Before submitting an offer?

- What kind of materials do you provide the lender to help assure lending? Property pics, an estimate of repairs, comps? Anything else to paint the proper picture?

- Is it a good idea to get GC recommendations from hard money lenders who have a lot of experience in an area?

Thanks in advance for taking a moment to answer!