Proof of funds for getting a contract

[Bill Zarzecki]

Question from a newbie: what is required to get a house under contract? Researching private and hard money lenders online, all lenders want a house under contract before releasing funds, however, working with a realtor, they want proof of funds prior to showing a house, let alone putting one under contract. This is a catch 22 that I cannot seem to resolve. Can someone help me with this? Looking to start investing ASAP, just need this last puzzle piece in place. Thank you