I think it can be interpreted either way, and I make no attempt at trying to spin my experience, which I am quite proud of at this point given my comparative time in practice.

In other words, prices go up, and the next crop of buyers don't get that super yield anymore.50 years of data of Southern California actually need to be interpreted.  

If like any survey the questions are open to the participants written ideas, then yes it's going to be a she said he said rather than using the yes/no method.How is answering yes or no not open to interpretation?

Based on my interpretation on the information provided though I would recommend the fallowing:If you have just a knee wall (mini-wall) it could be removed to provide a few extra inches if that's all that's needed.

I am not a lawyer nor do I work for any housing authority just my interpretation of Fair Housing; Federal and CA.

How you decide to interpret them is up to you.

@Oleg Enik call local architects, they will be able to help analyze and interpret the zoning for the property.

@Dawn BrenengenMy interpretation is that he is undecided on what he wants to do(move back in or to sell).Yes, if he moves back in - there are added complications with section 121 exclusion as there is qualified / non-qualified use.I would personally sell the property and take advantage of the full exclusion.

The trick is to find a lender who will interpret the rehab escrow account to be included as  part of the purchase price.  

If I am interpreting what you are asking correctly, 2 different owners (and I assume taxpayers) are selling their respective properties and the combined funds will be used to purchase another property.