He didn't want this added stress for either of us and we agreed that delays could ruin our business and/or personal relationship.

Evict them and ruin the relationship?

Offering a lower bid will just cause it to be rejected and even if you got the deal, the few dollars would not be worth ruining the relationship with a realtor that actually brought a good deal on your table.2.

I am hoping the property management company will handle the hassles for me, and keep a steady tenant that won't ultimately destroy the home, ruining its value. 

If it doesn't we won't be ruined, just very low profits until we get both units renovated and the rents up.

In Newport News, in particular, there are tons of condos and town homes that are attractive but HOA fees can ruin an otherwise appealing buy and hold deal. 

The potential insurance rate hike can ruin the  numbers from one year to the next and once you pay huge insurance amounts, you can sell the house only with a steep discount.

Having a bad tenant can ruin a whole building of tenants.

Is it permanently ruined?

The other scenario for landlords I'm sure has been devastating, losing money, trying to get federal help and those not paying rent more likely to ruin the home.