She just passed a National to us a few minutes ago, to let us handle their local properties, but doesn't make up for the delays on the money owed.

Situation :A seller just called-He owes 3 years mortgage on the house -68K.He wants 3K in his hand .

Just my opinion, check with chancery clerk or tax office and ask how much was owed for that year and you will have that answer, then add normal state mandated interest to arrive upon your figure, all public record!

Most listing contracts specify that the owner owes a commission even if they sell the house themselves.  

Once this has happened, they would no longer owe rent.

Structure it where I'll pay in full their CURRENT asking price in 5 years, minus a $15,000 down payment given upon signing the agreement, and minus however much the principal drops in the next five years.

Owners still owe on the mortgage. the home is vacant, property was last purchased for 179K in 1997.

Owners still owe on the mortgage. the home is vacant, property was last purchased for 179K in 1997.

Home was bought in 2009 for a loan amount of $170k and they still owed $156k.

If you did not exclude anyone from the contract, and you negotiate a deal (with or without the agent) you will owe a commission.