As mentioned FAA and TC (transport Canada) are not the same.
A canadian Seaplane rating is 7 hrs. No written and no Flight test just do the time and get signed off by an instructor.
Yes your time will count towards your time building.
Best rate I've seen for a very well maintained and equiped 182 amphib is $175/hr wet Canadian dollars. It available in Canada during the spring, summer, fall and the Caribbean in the winters.
Send me a PM if you want details.