Seller seems pretty motivated (i.e. flexible) and has nothing to lose by working with me to get this thing closed, rehabbed, and cash flowing again, so perhaps he will entertain some creative techniques to get this done.David, or anyone else, can you give me some more guidance on the owner financing terms I might go back to the seller with?

House hacking is the technique to enter the Calgary market I would suggest.

Commercial loans aren't always 25% down, get in the business now, learn cross collateralization techniques, blanket loans.There are other techniques to acquire ownership, like a TIC, look for tired landlords wanting to retire, distressed owners and properties.

If so what techniques seemed to work best for you?

I was born and raised in the City and learned about investing techniques when I was in my 20's, now 73 still going strong and doing bigger and more profitable transactions.

Does anyone have good recommendations/techniques that they have used in the past to analyze a new market? 

There are so many unique strategies and techniques to real estate investing and that is one of the main reasons I am drawn to it.  

Interesting technique that you have there - I do know his mail continues to come in at this address though.

Control as many properties as possible and negotiating the offer using the second stage" negotiating technique, first open negotiations with an offer, than close with final face to face negotiations.

I will try your approach.I know everybody has their own technique and not many would like to share, but it worth to ask.