What is the best way to deal with skeptical seller?

[Terrance Merck]

I was recently introduced to a seemingly motivated seller who is currently interested in selling a 3 bed 2 bath brick house. He was using it as a rental but now would like to sell. We negotiated and agreed on a price. However when I arranged to meet with him with contract he seemed somewhat skeptical about signing stating that he did not want his property tied for 45 days, and that he was not satisfied with earnest fee. We met and I informed him that adjustments can be made, and that we could reduce time to 30 days, however I would need time for due diligence. I provided him with copy of unsigned contract allowing him time to review and decide how he would like to proceed. Has anyone dealt with this type of situation. Any advice on how I should proceed is welcome. Thanks in advance.