Great write up.
About the $60K thing…I learned a long time ago in business, that those who talk big and can pay, don't have a problem at all with posting a substantial deposit (unless you're talking about a large retailer, like Walmart or Walgreens…who may take a while, but WILL pay). If they talk big, but won't give you a deposit, then run. (Of course, I think you've already learned that lesson the hard way). Nice job in recovering from that!