Just went through the exact same thing... Buying agent gets 2.5% our selling agent got 1% (We got a pretty good deal).. Still my house sold in less then 8hrs. Figure out that hourly wage!!!!!!!
Barrens is great for star gazing but not so much for long exposures (Still way too much light pollution).. I've been there a few times.
My next mini trip will be up to Agawa Bay on Lake Superior.
I haven't found anything better then a home made box with 4in of styrofoam insulation.. Blocks of ice last over a week with ease. Key is to not keep opening it.