I'm confused on how this hard money lender thing works?

[Jessie Creighton]

Hi all, I'm looking to find my first flip in windham Maine area, and found a great agent. I need to have financing lined up before making any offers I'm told, but it was my understanding that hard lenders need the deal info before I can apply. Isn't that a catch 22? Anyone have advice on a good hard money lender and how to get pre-approved before actually finding the deal? Or do you find the deal and scramble to get financing before you can make the offer? I have been pre-approved for a line of credit but that's just the supplementary financing for whatever isn't covered.