A couple of thoughts as I read through this. Haddon, think of it as a poker game or an auction. You have to be able to abstain from getting emotionally involved in the negotiation of the transaction. We all understand that you want the bees, but listen to your inner voice of reason, (and the voices of other experienced beeks) not that I am one mind you. JP, thanks for the plug and yeah $500 for a boom lift to go 20' sounds a little high. I agree with K9 100% about getting on a forklift. If the owner is no more concerned about your safety than that, I would take by smoker and go home. Better healthy and less one colony off bees than broke up or worse and still less one colony of bees. I can appreciate your enthusiasm but I would stay away from this one unless you can do it safely and for a profit.