I put had $2000 and included a photocopy of a check written to my title company. 

Often a buyer's agent will either put the earnest money in their brokerage's escrow account or just keep the check in their files and send a photocopy of the check to the listing agent.

The Recorder's Office won't accept a photocopy of the POA paper when recording the Deed.   

Of course, you do "figure things out" once you get the final offer accepted, things may be a little different than what your specific letter days.As a first time buyer, you would need/want:- your pre-approval letter- a cash deposit of earnest money (or check, or photocopy of a check)- a buyer's agent representing you who will go over this list in detail- an inspector who will do a physical inspection for you and represents YOUR interests, not your realtor's interests or the seller's interests (ie: find one via referral)Once you write up your offer and it gets accepted, your clock starts counting down. 

I have a shared office and access to 15 different offices in my area not to mention free use of the photo copier and color printer for all my marketing copy.

The original was post marked and you have proof of that.and it was sent properly, Take a photo copy the original envelope for your records, and include the original unopened envelope,with the adjusted second move out statement and mail it out. 

Is it customary or normal to also ask for a digital photocopy of the receipt for the expenses?

Owner A's evil cousin happens to be visiting and photocopies the form.

When you submit the offer, you submit a photocopy of the actual EMD certified check so they know you have it. 

The cost of someone photocopying it with a different heading and cutting off the bottom margin is pretty inexpensive for the first one, copies after that are what, 5 cents, 10 cents at the library ?