yes, anecdotally I think that is true, although I did my first report online (but that was over 2 years ago). I would still try it as there's nothing to lose if you do it online 14 days before the due date. If it gets rejected there is plenty of time to go in person.
excellent. If you have friends there, just ask them to help you, you then don't need an agent. If you have a visa opening a bank account is simple and then 2 months layer extending your stay for 12 months is also simple. You can ask here for more advice nearer the time. Good luck.