So, have a look at the property, if there are other newer properties around, that the owners know where the flood level was (around here, they stick a red   plastic ribbon on a tree, I just remember which knot of the tree the ribbon was on) and that would show you your true level of flood risk. locals will also know if  new flood canals have been built to change the flood behaviors--city hall would be up to date on that. 

@Mark Fries ya that’s what I was thinking too.

However, heavy plastic must be laid under gravel or weeds/grass can grow through. 

The plastic tubing on most refrigerators is cheap and easy to spring a leak.

I think I have been so fried from all our showings on this house, and getting the new property in Idaho ready that I wasn't connecting dots I already knew, LOL. 

You know, those little chips of old paint, screws, small pieces of wood, plastic - whatnots.  

To paraphrase what  @Frank Wong and @Mark Fries said above...                                            

I'm sure there are other more creative ways of applying leverage to help push things forward, this seemed like a low threat option for meRespect your agent's time-my agent is a busy man, and I know he has much bigger fish to fry than my $160k sale (while this was ongoing I know he had multiple listings for over 2-3x the sale price/commission).

Originally posted by @Mark Fries:@Matthew PaulWe have moved to small jobs only...8k-10k and under...I turn down full renovations and rooms additions almost daily...never again will I do a 30 or 60 day project...By small job, I mean about 3 or 4 hours of work and under $1000, maybe even $500.

@Mark Fries @Michael Noto @JD Martin @Jason BottGuys, thank you very much for support and ideas!