I know you wanna be emotional because you spent a lot of money and held it so long, but that's all sunk costs.

Our contractor partner has a deeper connection in that town and has a better idea of which broker/agent is the right choice. 

These sellers are in a much motivated, and emotional state. 

I suggest you are projecting your own emotions, not suitable for a serious discussion regarding money. ;-)Why did B.C. institute a tax specifically on out of country investors?

Now it's done and you do your best.Don't rash into anything quickly in such an emotional time - you'll regret later.

I like his idea and his numbers look pretty good, but I'd like to dig a bit deeper before jumping in an investment with him.

I need to separate emotion from business.I have recently started becoming serious about investing into buy and hold properties. 

If he breaks in, he will be arrested and in way deeper trouble. 

I'm not emotionally attached to the property or anything...

If they reduce price by the cost of the expenses plus a little bit for time it is the same property that you were willing to buy and hold except a lot of things will be brand new and less likely to break in the near future.In terms of negotiating don't expect much more than the contractor's bid off the purchase price if these sellers aren't too emotionally involved.