He distinctly says yes the offer can be 1% or purchse price but some investors do make contract with a dollar.

My suspicion is that there are extenuating circumstances, you did the math wrong, or this is very far inland.

Engage a professional to consider your and your partners facts and circumstances before you start setting up companies.

If you can afford to come to closing with a check then get out now and learn from it.I dont think there is an easy answer for you but these are the two things that I have done in the past due to similar circumstances as you have stated.

Do you think that is a reasonable ask given the circumstances mentioned above and any recommendations on negotiation techniques?

Some might consider this a distinction without a difference, however, violation of MLS or NAR rules is not the same as "illegal." 

Someone who examine your facts and circumstances and advise you on tax entity structuring and treatment of payments/expenses.If the washing business is a disregarded entity, there would be no deduction as you're just moving money "from one pocket to the other".If an S Corp or C Corp, possibly, but then we'd have to look at: is the payment reasonable, ordinary and necessary. 

It seems to fit the circumstances nicely. 

People are always in some sort of circumstances that have a financial factor and a wholesale buyer can bring a solution swiftly.

For rent controlled properties in LA, the "relocation" fee for the tenant is $7900-$20450 depending on the circumstances.