Or put another way, how would you suggest an architect promote themselves on this site?

Not promoting here, just trying to find out where the Richard Berg was coming from when he attached me just for saying to not pay an HML any fees before closing, especially not $2,000+.EVERYONE: Please utilize your local meet ups, word of mouth, and the Bigger Pockets lender list to find quality and vetted lenders.

It was removed for 'self promotion' (wasn't my article and I or the link wasn't selling or even offering anything).Yet this guy can spam in a "Should I invest in San Diego" with a "Invest with me passive in Dubai". 

Passive - typically this means that you are investing in a syndication with a promoter who ACTIVELY invests in Self Storage, Multi-family, turn key rentals,etc. and you enjoy returns in the 8-15% range.

I think I saw a post in the marketplace fairly recently of a guy in the Seattle area promoting a similar service.  

The "S"-Myth, "S" for school, or the "D"-Myth, "D" for degree.You do know that the schools and the corporations are in cahoots to determine who gets hired, who gets promoted, etc., right?

The de minimis safe harbor has been increased to $2,500 per item, meaning each item under the $2,500 limit can be expensed. https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/tangible-property-final-regulations

Looks like this language is standard in Virginia, and Ohio, but maybe not in Oregon :)Ohio Code. 4735.65 Representing buyer in agency relationship - duty to promote interests of client.(4) Present any offer to purchase or lease to the seller or the seller's agent in a timely manner, even if the property is subject to a contract of sale, lease, or letter of intent to lease, and accept delivery of and present any counteroffers to the purchaser in a timely manner;

Our community has a promotion, and many cities offer incentives to get energy audits. 

If you elect to use it, the maximum amount is $2,500 (there isn't a $500 anymore, that was in the pre-2016 version.)This page covers it in good detail - https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/tangible-property-final-regulations