Hey, look on the bright side, he's not gonna keep you hostage to your state! And in a year D will be 13 and the court will probably allow her to decide if she doesn't want to go for visitation (although I recommend allowing some).
He'll be happy because your new income will reduce his support bill (although still fight for all you are owed) and maybe that will mean he'll leave you alone in peace to create your new life
As for rent-to-own.....look at it carefully. As I stated before, I'm not sure you should be even thinking about buying again for a few years, and I'd hate to see you get stuck in a financial mess. Rent-to-own is usually more expensive than just renting. And usually harder-to-sell properties take that route. Not saying it's always bad - maybe if you find the perfect cottage being sold by an older couple who want to still make money from it by carrying the note.....but it can be a bad deal. Who would be responsible for repairs etc while you were renting? How much above market rents would you be paying? What if you pay above-market rents for 3 years, then decide to move in with your hot new fiance instead?
As for having the storefront office - that's AWESOME Definitely find a house or apartment that's within walking distance for D if you can. Being within walking or biking distance can save you a lot of car wear-and-tear too.
