Very little in the way of practical real estate or investment advice. 

Not sure if there are other ideas out there, but I suspect something creative involving the seller overseas will not be practical. 

Also, is this common practice across all custodians.Thanks!

Practical answer - Increase wealth for here and now as well as for my kidsFun answer - Thrill of making deals

Been the practice in Ontario Canada for decades.

I'll practice the math with properties in my area so I can get the hang of it and I'll be putting offers in.

You practically sell a contract

Disclaimer: While I’m an attorney licensed to practice in PA, I’m not your attorney.

You should be able to document that fortunate accident and had other things like written communication, the lease itself, your past practice etc all demonstrating that your intent was to hold.  

Again, I don't know your area pricing, but based on the economies of scale doing 25 of practically the same farm houses, a good GC should be able to do that for $125 per foot or less.