Hard money questions

[John Kane]

I am a newer investor in the Philadelphia area. I have bought renovated and rented out three properties so far. I am also a GC and lived in all three, so I always bought using an agent and with conventional financing.

I want to find distressed properties at below market value. I have found a few on the MLS and through whole sellers. How do I make an offer using hard money? I have been pre-approved through a couple but selling agents seem to need more proof? Do I need an agent? Do I make an offer first or let the hard money lender know about the property first without a signed agreement?

Thanks!