I would recommend that you seek out Independent Agents (that represent multiple companies) and have them shop the policy.  

When should I start shopping long term financing?

In the midwest where I normally shop, there are still solid deals.

The credit algorithm allows you to shop.

., etc.) without any real estate experience is a bit like trying to form and manage a law firm without any legal experience, or trying to establish and manage an auto repair shop without any automotive experience--those would be monumental challenges even locally, but doing it from hundreds of miles away is near impossible.

I guess it protects them from borrower's shopping mid-transaction. 

my family runs a mom and pop shop at a ski shop in tahoe.

Area has mix of older retail strips, motels, banks, gas stations, some QSR, a few independent restaurants, services (barber shops, etc.), and retail, warehouses, factories, and a business incubator for entrepreneurs. 

Look for areas with low vacancy rates, good schools, and proximity to amenities like shopping centers, parks, and public transportation.

I would say shop around for a different insurer.