You can get rid of this requirement through deal history, or buying down the loan extensively.

Reality:  There are others who are there and/or have people 'there', and others who have local knowledge and cash in their pockets.That sort of image is safe, you need to do nothing, it's a dream for now and will remain a good dream as long as you do not do anything.Just for you:Look at something close and ugly, e.g., 236 Alice Dr, Wilits, CA (I found this as I am writing to you here)https://www.google.com/maps/@39.38686,-123.3430735...This in your face, likely 'an ugly situation' all around, but it is there, and you will learn.When I was 20 years old a guy told me, "Look at 100 properties and make no offers until, and then after you have reached 100 make an offer on 101, and on everything you see"To me this suggested learning deeply about an area.Did I write 'harsh words? 

He is a very knowledgeable local agent with a great support system all around.

Extension has been filed for 2018 but don't want to waste too much time in case I owe more than I was thinking.Thanks!

Ali, not sure if you found someone since you post, but Lance Lvovsky an is very knowledgeable and is in Broward.

I guess I was waiting until I was knowledgeable (or confident) enough or had something relevant to say, But here I am today asking for some help. 

I continue to indulge myself in as much knowledge as possible (BP platforms being my #1 go to) so I can be as prepared as possible when the right opportunity presents itself.

I owner financed a property I sold and I have extensively researched using owner financing to buy a property. 

I'm looking to gain more knowledge on how a HomeStyle loan works. 

If you're making a financed offer then you need a pre-approval letter from a lender showing you can close the deal.But sounds like you're trying to wholesale deals that are on the MLS where you're dealing with knowledgeable sellers.