We are looking to purchase shares in an existing business which we have already been involved in for 10+ years (spousal couple looking to make purchase). Currently, the shares are split 3 ways between father, mother and daughter. Father and mother act as silent shareholders in that they take no salary, although they run one half of the business.

If we purchase shares in the business, we will also be purchasing one of two locations so own the property half the business runs off of. In addition, we would be responsible for at least half the work required to keep the business running. Sellers have suggested they would like to maintain 2/3 of the shares between the three of them, and we would take on the other 1/3. We understand this is the business they have built, but also believe we would like to purchase 1/2 of the shares (or close to, given a 50/50 situation is undesirable for other reasons) given the other conditions. Any advice in a situation like this? Would it be reasonable to stipulate a higher salary for the work we are doing and possibly first right to purchase the parents' shares if the situation arose?