Many HOAs will not provide an estoppel letter until the Forclosure deed has been recorded. We run into it all the time.
Contact the HOA and find out if they will do an estoppel without the F/C deed recorded. If not the answer to the "F/C Deed required" would be YES. IF not the answer is NO.
By the way, Congratulations. Even if it is a second opinion you are on your way.
Good Luck and best wishes.
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"Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind."
Dr. Seuss