Land development - Contingencies in offer

[Mark Zippo]

Does anyone have any experience in putting contingencies in offers to sellers of raw land? I am looking at a parcel and I will need to meet with the zoning and planning boards of the local town to determine if the land can be subdivided into single family lots, multi family development, etc. This typically takes a few months and I am unsure how to dialogue with the sellers on the process, I don’t want to put in too low an offer and have them reject it but I also need to protect my downside should the town not grant my highest and best use. Any experience or suggestions will be appreciated.