I am still unsure if as an investor if the safe guards are really as in place as they claim.

It is just a safeguard and will not impact your claim settlement.Cashing the draft will not trigger a release of all claims.

Beware of who you do business with, as you have little control over the process, and must rely on them for safeguarding your investment. 

The buyer is at risk to the extent of his down payment, capital expenditures and can be sued by the seller.There are numerous safeguards that can be put in place to lessen risk, often to a tolerable level,  for both parties.  

Because banks have to now safeguard against borrows like that.

From what I have read online it would seem that the SEC was formed largely in the wake of the 1929 stock market crash for the purpose of safeguarding the public against fraudulent stock issuances, stock market manipulations, and the like.

They still might, but I am still learning this new format.Here is a question that any operator can ask themselves to test their own knowledge:Do I have a written Policy and Procedure Manual for: Red Flag, Safe Guard, and the Disposal Act?

England and Germany were the safeguards of the European Union and now with Brexit the next crash will be caused by a sovereign debt crisis in either Portgual, Italty, Ireland, Greece or Spain.

There are some good safeguards in place to discourage frivolous claims.If any on you are in the Houston area, I will be there next week and be happy to meet with you.Arnie

A few good lists from folks ready spell out all the TIME a realtor will save you but the main thing is the last thing Michael Noto said, your are paying for someone to safe guard your best interests.