It's a lengthy process (generally 3-4 mo in Oregon) but it can definitely be done.

See the fairly lengthy discussion at https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/70/topics/128233-good-site-for-purchasing-notes

brand new to BP just getting back into REI after lengthy absence. starting with limited capital so i've been looking for funding options saw F4F yesterday applied and got preapproved for 70k no strings no collateral !

I wrote a pretty lengthy article on the subject HERE. 

However, since Newbury Park is considered a part of Thousand Oaks, and since my post was getting lengthy enough as it was, I didn't feel the need to address it specifically.

Target properties that have been on the market for a lengthy period of time and try the creative financing aspect. 

Aloha BP community, If you couldn't tell by my lengthy nonexistent list of deals listed on my profile I am a newbie trying to make my way into REI.

For the "receiving cash back" I wrote a pretty lengthy article about this subject and how to properly structure a cash purchase. 

July 2017I'm sent the application packet which is extremely lengthy in requirements and background info, etc. 

I know some cities in FL that will take 10 cents on the dollar or that will forgive them entirely (with a lengthy before and after inspection process and all work done up to code and with permits).