He could make a (reasonable) case that things out of his control lead to delays.

You are controlling your 401k, you invest your 401k, and you will benefit from your 401k in the future (not today).

After you have the septic systems inspected and everything checks out you can assume each one pumped every 5 years (assuming 1:1 septic to home ratio).

You're relying on future events you have no control over, and no time table. 

1-cosmetic (paint, new floors, maybe a few small framing changes), 2-some real remodeling/maybe a major system or two (new baths, foundation + hvac, etc), 3-total guts/burnouts (taken to the sticks).

In any situation, you can't discriminate against anyone, but in a non-section 8 situation, if you get multiple applications, you can screen for the best credit, longest lease, etc and that just puts the landlord more in control, and with more flexibility.  

I have an updated on demand heating system and the tenant has old forced air but new central air.

In parts of the SF Bay area its the law that old sewer lines must be replaced when properties are sold.. my brother in law is making a KILLING doing this.. pipe burst systems for 5 ot 8k a job done in 4 hours..

If rent control isn't a factor and you want to force a move, you could.

Regardless it is difficult to control perception in wholesaling with it's past reputation.