Oddly, I meant to mention that, on occasion, I've tried to contact the listing agent before submitting the offer for the purpose of having them represent both sides of the deal.

That seems really odd to me to begin with.

(Before)(After)This bedroom became the master bedroom:(Before)(After)This odd utility space is what became the master bathroom:(Before)(After)This was the hall bathroom:(Before)(After)(Dual Vanities)  Second Bedroom:(Before)(After)Study and Foyer:(Mid-Demo)(After)Living Room and Foyer:(After)This is one of the three upstairs bedrooms.  

However, as an investor this logic seems to be at odds with the time value of money and the opportunity cost of your money.

The 50% equity for only 5 years seems a little odd. 

I know less than nothing about CA laws, but that seems odd.  

Odds are good the listing agent will just collect the buyers and sellers commission in that situation, so all you have done is given up representation and not saved money.As far as the comment about recording cameras, it is very common for sellers to place hidden cameras in their properties.

In a post about financial freedom, money and wealth, it may sound odd for me to tell you that money does not matter.

Odds are, if you say a correction/crash is coming each year, eventually you will be correct (like any broken clock).

Ask your mother and Father what they want done about the house--he has been living there free for a reason--maybe they will just deed it over to him.Maybe they like him more than you--or maybe he's the kind of person that needs more help than you (in your parents estimation).He has been living there free and clear for a long time.Here's an odd thought--maybe you were adopted and don't know it (seriously).Somehow he received a free house and you did not.Also you might want to look into living trusts (done by an attorney).