I would not want to make a family that is trying to get buy put out on the streets, and you shouldn't either or you my friend are a D bag. so in trying to avoid that , what are some options ? 

Spend the time to shops around, speak with different broker, vet them out and go with the one that you like the most.

TL;DR - Commercial newbie needs to know how to effectively lease up a few shops in a tiny town. 

I'm slowly acquiring furniture and decorative items from garage sales, our local thrift shop, Craigslist, the classifieds and Restore/Habitat for Humanity store that sells donated appliances, floor covering, furniture, windows, doors etc.

After some research, I ended up with a home in sugar house which is close to shopping center and restaurants.

Shop for the quality Chinese and avoid the cheap ones.

I periodically shop around and found that Spirit Bank, TTCU, and Arvest typically have the lower origination fees and are more willing to build a relationship than that mortgage companies.  

I'll bribe her with a Chanel bag.

We have talked to one lender in CA that will work with us but need direction on how best to shop and compare rates for a small loan before we lock.  

But if I haven't shopped the deal yet and don't have a buyer isn't it too soon to open escrow?