Curtsy in Rockford IL can help with the check out and Heritage at KFEP, my airport, can do the conditional. Not as big a problem as you might think, even with the hot seat. BUT; money, that's an entirely different question!
Looks like off a drone. I have one that is smaller then this one but very similar. Nice condition but a bit too pricey for me as I have about 8 wall hangars already.
Good thought on renting during this phase. I bought in to a Tri-Pacer about where you are. I was so proud, and loving flying my own plane! Then while in for routine maintenance, new oil line to the oio presure gauge, the maintenance hagar blew down around and on top of the Tri-Pacer! Long...
I would make the call and inquire about Insurance costs, that may very well answer all your questions right there. When I started to fly my biplane I couldn't even get insurance so flew naked for 2 years. Research research research! Complex aircraft get expensive fast and right now you want to...
I think if you measure it you will find it is only 8" dia. and I need a 10" to 11" to cover the nose bowl lip. If your is in that range for O.D. I am interested but then have to determine bolt size and pattern.