I'm in the small Eugene market, which in terms of industry and jobs offers no real reason to be here.

There’s no reason for an owner to pay for utilities they aren’t using.

It ended up being the main water line to the house that was old/rusted/damaged.

No thanks.I look at real estate as a lifetime investment, and hopefully future income for my kids and their kids.If you bought a cabin last year and already want to sell, you probably didn't go in with a reasonable expectation of the investment.  

It all depends on how your agent is able to convey the reason of the contingency and negotiate with the listing agent (As listing agents, they want to mitigate risks for their clients as well).For Condos in the Bay Area, you could be exposed to higher risk because of the new SB326 Balcony Law.

The main thing is me is that the capital is tied up.

I want to earn my clients business and if for some reason they decide the relationship isn't working then they should walk away (but don't leave your agent high and dry haha).Commission is completely negotiable.

But, primarily my main business is remodel work. 

It's the same skill set but the financial returns and community impact are exponentially greater for everyone.There’s no reason that we can’t and shouldn’t be the ones revitalizing our communities instead of outsiders OR worse nobody at all.There are less opportunities in smaller towns and who is in the best position to truly understand the needs of the community?

I'd decide what is reasonable in the market that you want to invest in and create a strategy around that- not what a stranger (who, very likely has never done a deal) says on the internet.Best of luck- happy investing!