Can't even view the inside of a property

[Hari Mata]

So I have come to somewhat of a roadblock and i cant find an answer here on the forums so ill ask.
My problem: I found a dozen or so homes here in atlanta and can't get inside to asses the property.
So I find the house. I call the listing agent and on about 10 homes I haven't received a single call or email back from the listing agent.
One listing agent I got through to said it was under contract. The other agency that i got through transferred me to a buyers agent when they found out I didn't have my own agent.
Even though I would rather work by myself I don't mind a buyers agent if it gets me in the house to assess the property.
This buyers agent wants a pre approval letter before she will show me the house.
However, I will be using a hard money lender. And on their pre approval form they want the details of the repairs needed. Well this seems like a catch 22 to me. Can't get into home without pre approval letter- but can't get pre approval letter without getting into home.
Does every buyers agent these days want a pre approval letter? I read that they are more likely to work with you if you have one but it's not required?
Also, does every hard money lender want the details of the repairs before giving me a pre approval letter. I would think yes because HML lends based on ARV so I think my issue is with viewing the home.
I have been reading the forum here for a good 3 months and as a new real estate investor I can't explain how great and informative this website is.
By the way JScott being in this area has helped a lot from his 123flip site and answering region specific questions to members around here.