My apologies, I somehow missed the FIRST sentence where it is required in one payment.

Well, first, don't take advice from anyone talking about Massachusetts Tax Liens and "Counties" in the same sentence. 

In your very first or second sentence, you told us your credit score.

You asked the why, and now appear annoyed the answer was longer than 3 sentences.

Also I'm confused by your last sentence...Changing the payment method doesn't change how much you made or what your estimated tax payment should be...

., firstly, I'm not sure I understand this sentence:"I was approved for the low 500's but I would like to stay below that to maintain cashflow.( townhouse or small SFR)"If you're purchasing a primary residence and will not be renting out rooms in it, then why would you cash flow at all?

It’s like saying since the state has sentencing guidelines you should be your own lawyer and save money.

It is your last sentence that bothers me.  

The first sentence makes it clear that the law you are questioning applies to only obtaining Personal Information from a State Agency.

Here's a 1-sentence summary:Institutional investors are paying low caps in part because they believe that millennials would rather rent long term than buy - and they prefer apartments vs. houses.