Pre-approval: how to keep maximum amount a secret from seller and agent?

[Brian W.]

How do I keep the maximum amount I'm approved for private from my real estate agent and the seller?

I don't want either one to know the maximum amount I'm approved for. All they need to know is I can afford the home I'm looking for.

[Gary Parker]

Ask your lender to give you a letter specific to each offer you make stating the amount you are approved for is your offer price. Not sure how you would handle negotiations if they want to counter.