What do I need to have ready to make an offer thru a realator on a Short Sale?

[Joe Ward]

Hi guys, I want to at least get a couple offers in on these 2 short sales I am interested in before I leave for vacation on Thursday. But I have been slammed with work and haven't been to a bank yet. To put in an initial offer, through the selling agent, what would you suggest I supply to have the best chance of the bank accepting my offer? Just an offer on a contract and a copy of a check for earnest money? Should I try to get to the bank and get a pre-approval letter first as well I am assuming? I know a ton of things I would prepare if I was going directly to the seller/banker to try and make a deal, but I know this is a different situation. So what would you guys suggest I supply the agent with the offer? Thanks in advance...Joe