I don't know much about honey burns. I know some people swear by them but I have not used one. When I bear hunt in Maine I use Ross Lake Camps and I am way out in the middle of the North Woods. I have hunted out West also including spot and stalk where bait is not allowed. I really prefer the East and North Central environments best. I would recommend that you do try to keep your scent to a minimum in spite of your proximity to houses and people. Bears can recognize surrounding scents as opposed to scents in the immediate area like near your bait. As a foot note, I would say that any where in Maine you would stand a good chance at at least seeing a bear. Keep us informed.