Third the already expressed FHA problem, you’ve got to live in it, otherwise you’re committing mortgage fraud.

They expressed being open to a shortsale but don't want to hurt their credit.

The other people who have posted have expressed some wise concerns and given you great feedback.

This treatment (to a lesser extent) is something to expect from all contractors- Greece why you only believe 10% of what they tell you.My (totally unofficial, free, no warranties expressed or implied) opinion is that you should cut this contractor loose and either find a GC willing to bump you up in the queue in exchange for a cost premium, or learn to do it yourself.

The expression.........NO GOOD DEED GOES UNPUNISHED, comes to mind.

I've worked with people who commute to Rogers/Bentonville/Fayetteville from Eureka Springs or Holiday Island, and ALL of them have expressed remorse for their decision.

I can’t express enough how much more you will learn from someone who is 20 steps ahead ofyou.

In this regard it is noted that General Obligations Law section 5-701 (10) specifically exempts licensed real estate brokers and salespersons from the requirements that such agreement be in writing.The contract of employment may be established by facts showing, in the absence of an express agreement, a conscious appropriation of the labors of the broker, and in some cases by the mere acceptance of the labors of the broker.

Then again, you could get a wholesaler friend to help you market the first few deals you get just to help you get your legs. whatever that expressions is. 

Document all the past complaints you can and then move forward, or do nothing and wait around hoping none of your friendly neighbors takes expresses their displeasure with you in more physical methods.