I recognize that my biggest problem right now is knowing what to say and this seems to be the MOST common response that I get as a result of my marketing.  

I don't know what protection you're looking for or why, but a purchase contract is recognized by the courts.  

@Jim Brown That's the thing though - the marketing of college is so ingrained and sneaky, we don't even recognize it for what it is.

The important thing is to recognize that allowances need to be made.

In the case of an uninsured (not involving FHA) loan where, despite goodfaith efforts by the purchaser, there is an inability to obtain a mortgageloan from a recognized mortgage lender, 50 percent of the earnest moneydeposit will be returned.3.

I am willing to take the gamble and say I am going to be just fine.

You have recognized what many REI don't, and never do. 

This was good information and included his Land trust docs.However he did not mention that land trusts are not recognized in MD and often speaks of land trusts as "Asset Protection."

appreciation comes in many forms.. its not all gambling and hope.. 

And a Heloc would help with this, because they know you can draw the equity out of your home and go on a expensive vacation, or gamble it away or whatever.