We have a VIP same day service where we obtain a bank account for you, convert you to a non-o retirement visa, and also obtain your yearly retirement extension.
You can apply using your own funds just by ensuring you have properly seasoned funds, and have filed your TM30 correctly.
We assist customers with this all the time. If an agency, or officer says you must go back to the agent or cannot apply on your own when you fully meet this requirements this is wrong.