Hard money--Get the deal or pre-approval first?

[Colby D Hollins]

When dealing with hard money lenders. Is it best to get the deal under contract first then seek money from a hard lender. Or is it better to get the pre-qualification from a hard money lender first. Pre-qualification expires after a certain amount of time right? So, I feel like it would be better to get the offer accepted then seek hard money, but im not 100% sure. Please help.