Hard money lender/offering without pre-approval

[Jimmy P.]

I have been looking at a few properties and want to make an offer. I plan on using a hard money lender to purchase the properties along with rehab costs.

My question is how can I tell the hard money lender my purchase price if I can't make an offer without a pre-approval or proof of funds? My realtor says I need one to offer on properties on the mls unless they are HUD or homepath properties.

Any insight is greatly appreciated.