Since making this switch I have funded a couple small loans to other investors.

Make sure that you have an attorney involved to draw up the loan docs to ensure that everyone is protected.  

I was thinking about this issue more after I replied the first time, and I think if I were back in your situation, as I once was, I'd try to set some parameters for having time to cultivate the real estate investing but also protecting my time and sanity and joy in parenting.

Remember that long leases protect the tenant, not much the landlord.

I am looking for a legal way to protect myself against the owner changing his mind and living in a newly remodeled home financed by my money.

I work under a flat fee brokerage currently but as my volume increases I am looking to switch to a 100% commission brokerage with a monthly fee.

Protecting yourself on this kind of deal is a whole new different story (say they place funds in escrow or something).

As soon as you close get an insurance policy to protect you in case of a loss.  

I agree and he and i have said we would do a contract to protect all parties involved.

Right after you close get an insurance policy that will protect you if there is a loss.I am 59 years old and I am trying to start over again when I finish recovering from my brain annurism and a stroke.