Cooper and I strapped on our cross-country skis and glided across our soon-to-be property, still blanketed in snow. The visit was equal parts scouting mission and neighborly meet-and-greet—except the neighbors had some unexpected news. “You know the pond leaks, right?” one said. Then another… The thing is, the pond was completely frozen over. But as the snow began to melt, so did the leverage begin to appear. By the end of the week, we had a growing list of negotiation ammo—because when two of the biggest assets on the property might become the biggest potential expenses, you don’t just sign and hope for the best. (Or so we’re told…)