Because you're new, it is a good idea to ask about the brokerage's agent training offerings and potential teams to join to get experience. 

Did you walk the property before offering?

Dena, thank you so much for the offer!  

Looking forward to hearing what your market has to offer. 

I offered them 10% down, interest rates favorable to me, amortized for 30 years, but with a balloon payment after 3-5 years.

I would start with them.I am not based in LA, so I don't know your exact laws, but I think I can still provide some initial direction for you to find answers, and maybe offer an idea to research.  

Was just about ready to pull the trigger on one of the many courses that are offered out there, particularly Pace Morby’s, but after reading several posts full of reactions to the question “should I join and pay for a course?”

So I'm always able to offer a lower rates and fees and still make a decent living.

If you ask them to write an offer, don't disappear for weeks at a time after you make the offer. 

They will look at the ENTIRE cost of the project and calculate what they can offer you in loan amount.