We've had all kinds of shenanigans getting permission from renters: we're not against it but sometimes it's sketchy. Fenced yards are nice especially in the winter. None of these should be deal breakers but there might be some over protection going on, more so when it's new dog owners and they might not know what to expect.
As long time fosters our rescue gives us a lot of latitude and if we do a meeting and think it's a good match then it's usually a go.
Dunno if he's too small for you but we're fostering this guy and he's pretty cool. I could certainly put in a word.
www.northstarpets.org
Meredith at Denville Animal Shelter is good people if they have any pups you're interested in.