New o seller Financing/Hard Money Loans

[Peter Kostas]

Had a question about Hard Money loans. Currently trying to underwrite a deal. Trying to use none of my money just to see if I can do it to be honest. 

Here's my situation: I can seller finance a 4 unit, and now need to come up with the down payment. I want to turn to a hard money lender for the down payment to add a second mortgage per say to the 4 unit.  When do I actually reach out to the hard money lender? Do I have to have a deal already? Do I have to already have verbally conveyed the seller financing offer to the owner? Can I reach out to the hard money lender before I even have the deal on my plate? 

I guess this is more logistical but from someone who hasn't used Hard money before this nitty gritty is really helpful. Thanks!