Reminds me of an attorney I knew who thought the solution was to have an executed warranty deed held by himself UNRECORDED.  

Any solutions they offered that you can share here?

They failed you.The solution is to not use real estate agents in the future.

So In SIMPLE terms; you are stating that REGARDLESS of whether the FULL $60K in funds paid to the Seller for the OPTION to buy the home at $300K is APPLIED towards that $300K "Strike Price" reducing the remaining amount due to them to $240K OR if only $30K of the $60K in funds paid to the Seller is APPLIED reducing the the remaining amount due to them to $270K - the Tax Treatment for THEM (the seller) is the SAME on the $60K paid for the OPTION ?

What ended up being the problem and solution?

The concept of "Boommates" would be an effective solution for many facing economic and social challenges.Sharing housing can benefit individuals and society by making better use of existing homes and creating supportive living environments.

I have heard that heat treatment can damage silicone seals in plumbing.

Read the book the 16% solution for a good general overview.My advice is don't take any of these types of national courses. 

What ended up being the problem and solution?

Condos and SFH are NOT solutions for a first time investor.