The trick is to negotiate a price that works for the both of you.

Yes there are a few of us here in RI on BP too.As you may have seen, BP has some excellent resources for wholesaling as well as some entertaining podcasts :)I also frequently recommend that people seek out a local real estate investor meeting such as RIREIG in RI or Black Diamond REI in southern Mass; I've been to both, and both are information-oriented, great places to network, and don't try to sell you anything.Besides that, if you have specific questions feel free to post them here on BP of course!

any tips or tricks?

The impact of the taxation should be minimal relative to the leveraged increase in return for the IRA dollars deployed.You will definitely, absolutely want to seek the counsel of a CPA and/or attorney familiar with IRA rules and UDFI tax implications before proceeding.This type of deal is, while not common, frequently entered into, and can be beneficial for both parties.Good luck.

any tips or tricks on how to negotiate with a fsbo?  

The trick is to find a smaller size bank  to work with that is in your community.  

But that's the trick: Will it REALLY give you a better return than the amount you are up for!?...

If he is truly a passive investor and simply wants to invest the money for a share of future profits, then define that relationship clearly and set expectations for what each persons involvement is, and how frequently you should discuss things.

I don't see it that way.About doing work your self well frequently it is not cost effective because of the time factor but in some instances if it's an expensive skill it's worth while.  

And what were some tips and tricks that you believed helped you successfully pass?