Elite:

Based on 20 plus years in this industry, I would go for the contract with the obvious contingencies for your approvals. A properly constructed contract will not only lock down the property, but give you the time frame to get it all done. Seller will obviously need to agree to be out front within the approval process. Be careful about the imposed set-backs from the abutting residential zones. I have seen acres of land lost because of set-back and buffering requirements. Any land seller will have to understand that you need the approval and feasibility time before a final closing commitment. The last thing you want to own is a 5-10 acre Park! One final thought from all my years in this crazy business, try to determine the level of opposition that you will face from local homeowners as quickly as possible It is very rare today to see politicians (even appointment members of Boards) at the local level go against organized opposition from residents (translate that into Voters).

Best of luck with your negotiations.

MisterJim444

__________________
Learning Never Ends