Update: Had a great chat with Emily (the owner) on the phone yesterday, as well as much longer in-detail conversation with Stuart (who is awesome!) about the history of the car. The car it truly a rare gem from everything i've learned so far. Stuart is also a rare gem of a former owner! He was beyond helpful!
Emily is out of town on vacation for a short period, but we left with the plan being I would fly in upon her return and purchase the car—pending the PPI results—at her asking price. I didn't want to try to negotiate. The price seems very fair considering all the work done and the condition of the car, and I was more interested in letting her know i'm serious, and I don't wan't the car to get snatched up by anyone else.
If all goes well, I'll be getting the car the first week of April. (finger's crossed).