If you have not already done so, begin with the Ultimate Beginners Guide under the "Education" tab above and then select the "Guides" flyout.

You’re on the right track by educating yourself and not rushing into anything.

All but one gave the buyer the right to inspect within a short period and back out if they were not satisfied with their findings. 

No....owner occupied means it is your Primary Residence....period.

Okay, what exactly is the “temporary occupancy period”?

So far I've self educated from literature, BiggerPockets forum of other newbies, and some friends and Facebook, but I'd love to see if there is possibly a way to branch out and BiggerPockets definitely has way more access to all the pros.

I like to avoid the 2 appraisals from the 3-6 month period.

And over what period of time.

Right now I am focusing on trying to educate myself, while still looking to try and find a good deal.

I also don't really want to pay $3K (I saw one such course) for educational materials that may simply be available for free or may not even be that valuable.