Pre-approval for multi-family properties

[Megan Hornyak]

Hi everyone!  I am looking at purchasing 2 multi-family properties and they would be my first investment properties.   I have 20% down and excellent credit and am looking for conventional mortgages.  

When buying an investment property, do you get (or have to get) pre approval prior to making an offer?  Or can I make an offer and arrange the financing after? 

Thanks in advance for any advice!