I've been getting a consistent 8% annual yield. And the stock price has remained steady in the mid $20 range for a long period. You'll need to look at the history to decide what price to offer. If you can get it at $24.99 or less you'll get 300 shares for your $7500. 8% Short term is not that great a deal, but I hold for the long haul and reinvest the dividends.
get a good dividend focused mutual fund. spread your money around, not in just one company's stock. Don't put all your eggs in one basket. Vanguard and Fidelity have these, average about 8 % per year.