Lending for 1st Puchase

[Matthew White]

Good Morning I am looking to make my first multi family purchase before the end of 2018. I am looking to purchase in the GA market. Currently I have a FICO over 800 plus 40k in liquid capital. My question is... Should I first secure a pre approval for what I am qualified for or should I just continue looking at properties. I have had some properties Ibwas looking closely at, but they got scooped up prior to my offer. Granted, these properties were sold OVER value so it is ok that they went, but just curious as to what step I should take first. If you are a lender, I would be interested in talking about your loan programs also. Thank you for your insight.