Nick, do a google on Barry Maguire REIN rent to own... he’s doing a course in red deer in a week and if I wasn’t still playing hockey I’d be going.

Just playing devil's advocate. 

There's not many duplexes in the area to compare it to, but after seeing what duplexes are going for in the metro area just north of this city, I'd say this price seems very fair.

I worry that purchasing now would be a minimal cash flow pure appreciation play. 

We're trying to close on our first property, but we keep getting stuck when it comes to finding a lender because so far everyone is requiring a fairly large down payment.Looking forward to hearing your input!

Is it a fair question to ask them for contact information or reviews from previous real estate investors they've helped?

Knowing what to say and what not to say also come into play and most sellers will screw that up to, though I admit so will many agents, therefore it is very important to find a good and highly experienced one.You mentioned not wanting to pay $900 more to list with an agen.

50/50, more than fair. 

I just want to get my fair price.

Banks will want some type of historical data if they are going to lend on the deal.I would look more for a momentum play, an asset that is a bit more stabilized, but is still cash flowing.