What is the right breeder worth?

[AliciaD]

I found a great breeder I really like. Even though I'm not in a position to get another dog (in school) I'm still browsing, finding ones I like, ones I don't, etc.

This breeder is... interesting. Intense, haha, but in a way I like. There's no one in my family/friends I can talk to about this because they would stop listening after hearing the price!

What is the right breeder worth? Did you have to jump through hoops with a breeder? Did the breeder you went through have special requirements (the one I'm looking at requires a 3 day visit when you pick up the pup, which I have not heard of with other breeders, but isn't exactly a bad thing)? Were they far way (I'm in NH, they're in California, feels like the other side of the world!)? What would you be willing to do?

I haven't seen their contract yet, and I know that will impact a LOT. I already know I won't sign a contract stating I MUST neuter (but I may sign a no breeding contract). I won't sign a contract saying that they can take back the dog at any time, for any reason, etc.

What did you go through? Or if you are a breeder, what do you require of potential buyers?