Also, custom builders are always looking for temporary housing for their clients who are building new homes or doing major renovations.

The logic here is that it’s far more difficult (and costlier) to evict a nonperforming tenant than it is to screen for a good one.Like @Greg Scott said, see if lowering your asking rent increases the number of applications you receive.

You have a much more engaging discussions with clients.

It protects you from cash flow and also provides leverage with difficult tenants. 

It depends on the laws in your state, the agents and clients comfort zone, as well as insurance. 

One of my clients that does heavy rehab and is his own GC usually spends about $10k-$20k/month during a project.

But again, as Chris said it is difficult to recommend something to you without knowing more information. 

I think that pulling the trigger the first time is the most difficult.1.

Reach out to a few, see who you like and see if they are accepting new clients.

My other question is that the listing agreement states that we are not allowed to sell to any client that he brought to us during the listing period or he will be owed commission.