I’d ideally like to keep the property management financials and operations completely separate from the employing broker during that period.

I've done these deals and we have been able to renegotiate price and terms late in the deal, all while my client's EMD is fully protected either based on an inspection period or based on lack of disclosure. 

Then since the houses are empty for a period of time, they are subject to vandalism, theft, and sqautting. 

Could you accomplish the same thing and help to create a more accurate balance sheet, as @Gina Faust suggest, by periodically (weekly, monthly) doing the same thing as year end?

This can actually be higher or lower than the FMR without utilities however the rent still should be no greater than FMR (note that in periods of low landlord participation, some housing authorities may offer an incentive of 10-20% OVER the FMR to entice landlords. )  Step 3 is that each property may qualify for a different amount based on amenities and type of utilities. 

Just doing a 12-24 month, interest-only payment that would actually encourage you to refinance or sell within that time period?

I was able to get the seller agent to give a 30 day grace period where I can get my 1k deposit back for any reason.

And for a period of time, they were right:  The financial crisis and Great Recession followed, and the market value of that property dropped almost in half on 5 years. 

-As @Travis Timmons mentioned, every property is going to have a stabilization period. 

The proposal could reduce stress for landlords, ensure smoother transitions, and improve communication with tenants.Additionally, the proposal includes a 5-day grace period before late fees can be imposed.