When we returned we did some significant upgrades (windows, roof, privacy fence, tile flooring) leaving the house attractive to potential buyers and we have all but kissed that money good bye that we put into it.  

@Stan ShapiroBL is up and coming with all the new development that is being focussed in that part of the city. 

The only doubt that I still have is that if I put the property under a trust after the closing date, public records will show my name and then the change to the land trust without a sell, which I think will defeat the purpose of the privacy on a land trust.Is this what's going to happen?

It's sturdy and offers plenty of privacy.

If he says he can't due to privacy then move on.

I don't know what the  boundaries are to invading their privacy however this is actually a health hazardous issue and a disturbance in my sleep.

There are only a few legitimate uses for a land trust... most hucksters use them for the wrong purpose, to get around due-on-sale clauses by breaking the law, or by using scare tactics to lull you into a false sense of privacy.  

So now the debate in my head is do I want to trade some lack of privacy for a modest financial gain?

I've built privacy fencing in the back to hide the junky couple of young guys next door whose idea of yard ornaments are beer cans and old tires.   

After meeting with him and expressing his desire for privacy/discretion in sharing information he strikes me as the "millionaire next door" type - lives in a modest neighborhood, drives a modest car, does not want to be flashy, show off his wealth etc.We've had the chance to meet for 2.5 hours so far.He's in his 60's best I could tell - ready to retire.