I'm not a lender, just speaking from experience on the deals I've brokered so far. 

Now I cannot speak for all lenders and some lenders broker out loans so they may not have this process up front. 

So now on 1st September my property is vacated and needs some TLC but their broker wont show it to anyone till the work is completed. 

Them and a private listing broker we have a relationship with.

What Prashanth said above is true, development sucks (I've been a land broker who sells to builders for 15 years).

Look, I'm a broker and I make my primary living selling houses and small MF. 

Happy to make a connection for you.Your commission and split will be laid out by your managing broker.

Regarding homeowner's insurance, I would recommend just contacting a local insurance broker in your area and let them know you're looking to switch your HOI policy to a landlord policy. 

Especially if you're a first-time portfolio buyer, these online platforms can help you raise capital from multiple investors.Work with an experienced commercial real estate broker.

Yes, there are contracts, there is written communication behind every agreement, but in my 14 yrs as a landlord, and 17 yrs working in commercial real estate, talking with people (tenants, brokers, contractors, etc) is always best.That being said, if you are serious about buying any property and you struggle with the likely tenant/landlord relationship, I would begin interviewing property management teams, to take the direct tenant relationships off your plate.