Do you need a pre-approval letter for multifamily 5+

[Carol Bloom]

Hello BP Community!

I am receiving conflicting opinions if I need a pre-approval letter from a Freddie Mac lender for a multi-family 5+ units. I will be financing the property using the Freddie Mac Small Balance Loan program.  Some of the commercial brokers are asking for a pre-approval letter, some commercial lenders tell me a pre-approval letter is only needed for residential loans, can someone please clarify the process. 

Greatly appreciate the help!

Carol