Are these types of purchases limited to certain states or are they common throughout the US?

Hey James, what are details on the shared access, is it a small common area, or?

That's a pretty skinny deal, not much room for error especially for someone new.

The thermostat is currently in the hallway right near the door entrance of the building in the common area.  

In addition to this, the deposit gives you access to the following:a.Advanced Deal Analysis Software – enter the purchase price, rehab costs and After Repair Value and we’ll give you a comprehensive break down including costs, net profit, and potential cash to close.b.Access to Proof of Funds – 24/7c.Contracts and Checklistsd.Additional Tools & Resources to help you avoid common pit falls in evaluating, rehabbing, negotiating and reselling the property.e.Your first evaluation is covered with the deposit.f.If the needed funding is more than 70% but it’s still a profitable deal, we’ll work with you to potentially wholesale the property and still make money on the deal.g.The remaining $1850 is rebated back to you once you resale your first property.8.Just like every other Hard Money Lender, one of the biggest challenges is helping new investors get dialed in on establishing accurate After Repair Values.

Often, a good deal can be reached by offering the seller multiple options (3 is commonly used).

If deferred loan payments are possible, (and more importantly, fairly common), it'll go a long way in instilling confidence in this very big move I see myself taking. 

Not enough to build on :(Please excuse my typing errors.

Is it common for sellers to pay up front mortgage insurance?  

Negative cashflows on rentals in Los Angeles is very common which by itself is sufficient cause to drive income driven investors elsewhere.