Thank You
Thank you to all who have replied. To answer a few questions, the initial deposit was $2,000, well over a year ago. The balance was rolled many times. No withdrawals have been made.
I specified someone in Costa Rica for a few reasons. One, I want it to be a straight cash transaction on both sides. You'd give me cash, and when I got paid I'd give you cash. If, when they pay, it is by check then it would be a soon as the check cleared. If it is by neteller then you'd get paid as soon as I have control of the money.
Also, if you are in CR and known in the industry, then I could offer a substantial reference who would vouch for me.
If you are not in CR it seems unlikely to me that you'd be willing to accept the risk. But irrespective of anything else, if I say I'm going to pay then I am going to pay.
As for offers of less than $2,000. I don't know what the "right" price is. And obviously it is the uncertainty that makes me want to construct a deal. I may entertain lower offers, but if they are substantially lower then I would almost certainly prefer to stick it out.
Clearly this is a volatile situation, and circumstances may change at any time, but as of this writing my offer still stands.
Again, I appreciate all the replies.