I don't think the new owner is under any obligation to refund anything unless its specifically documented ahead of the close.

Then I gain knowledge and hopefully can be my own agent.

Can you work with a real estate agent licensed in Illinois to access properties in Northwest Indiana? 

When I look at the comparables over the last 3 months the average sale price is about $235 per square foot, which would put me only at a resale value of $495,000 ...not worth it.However, there are comps from January of 2022 through July of 2022 that strongly support $300 per square foot putting the resale price of the house at $630,000... totally worth it.My real estate agent, that I've  worked closely with for the last 4 years and have probably done about 15 deals with, ensures me she will definitely get $595,000 minimum for this property, and if I knew that for sure I would do the deal.

We have a good apartment in socal in an area close to wife’s parents and looking to have children soon so want to stay close vs moving now.

Will you also have enough for reserves, closing costs, and the downpayment to buy this property if you paid the car off? 

If you are looking at adding a bathroom, try your best to locate the new bathroom as close as possible to an existing plumbing/drain source (either the kitchen, or to another bathroom).  

They do a Polar Express ride close to Christmas which brings a crowd.

You can also accomplish a similar function with the use of an Agent Trust with the Series LLC, to remove your name as the manager of the LLC on public filing. 

Homestyle/Choice/reno loans are first trust deeds not a piggyback or second after closing.