That's a dangerous strategy, and one most would advise against.

A piece of advise if he lays hands on you or your son immediately go to court and see if it qualifies for a peace order or similar. 

My best advise would be to find a 1031 facilitator now.

After a 1031, waiting 6–12 months before a cash-out refinance is generally advisable to avoid scrutiny on intent.

They don't have a monetary incentive to sell you on anything.

That is how I've operated for years, well before the NAR fiasco and as agents, we have always been advised from referring to status quo, standard, typical, etc when it relates to commissions.It continues to amaze me how many buyers/investors believe the agent value is finding them "deals."

When they ask the nature of my business, do I advise that I'm a real estate investor?

We always advise our investors on verifying with the lender or us reaching out to the tax assessor's office to get a good idea of what the taxes are.

Any advise on this?

I am based in OC if anyone has recommendations on advisers Real estate, financial, meet ups, anything really.