If you have some ideas that would work better than mine, I'm all ears, I'd love to hear them.As far as what was posted by @Richard Purdy, I am not saying that he will become wealthy in a year.  

If anyone has expertise in this area that they can share, I'm all ears

I think the RING meet up has some good points.

I mentioned your last name to her to see if she recognized it, but it doesn't ring any bells yet. :)  

And while a home inspector may not be part of the "team" per se (since an inspection is usually a one-off sort of thing) you are trusting them to be your eyes and ears on the ground, and so I recommend to also find an inspector you can trust. 

Wow mate,I've got an ear to ear Dingo smile here lolThanks so much for your kind words above and words of wisdom over the 2 days in Oakland. 

It sounds like you situation could be resolved between the ears.

I just re-read the original question:I'm not at home to review my worn and dog eared copy of the book, but I believe that if you review the scenario, you'll find that the individual offering to accept a payoff of $8,000 is NOT the original lender.  

I always include facts proof and data, but it always lands on deaf ears. 

Already getting my ears back to the ground running!