>1000 on my first deal (which I am still in the middle of closing - a long story which merits a whole other post) since becoming a BP member about a month ago. 

The deal should be good or bad on its own merits. 

Most of the debate seems to me to be because the proponents don't fully understand why and how it works and so cannot properly defend it and the antagonists are focused on shooting holes in the proponents arguments (which is very easy to do) rather than explore if there is any actual merit to this strategy.

If you are coming in with stronger terms (cash, quick close, etc) then that would merit a lower due diligence fee. 

I look at it getting in, but I like to use it as a figure of merit after the deal to which deals were the better deals.To be clear, I do NOT work for Brad. 

Your last idea has merit too; I hear the SFR sales market is still boyant and there are many better places to landlord than Seattle.