It's far from unique to the scenario I've described.

I never used it in the way you are describing but I can attest to its functionality.

It seems to me what your describing doesn't meet that requirement. 

I've been a contractor for 33 yrs, what you described isnt legal according to the Contractors license board.

The guy that called actually worked for the institute that marketed the Carleton Sheets program & described how this place was much different as they provide more support.

No I have not been in person, and what you are describing is exactly what I'm worried about.I will say that I do have a contractor who I trust to do an honest thorough inspection (I requested several references who all gave positive feedback, and the one property I did ask him to inspect he found a major structural issue and immediately told me not to considering buying it).It seems like when most people run into trouble its because their estimates of vacancy, maintenance, capex were all too optimistic.

@Howie BakerI am currently in a mentoring program that matches a true apprentice program you describe. 

I wonder if the sub-sub-accounts you described might work better than using Classes to assign categories.

All talked a great game, and I told all of them the pitfalls I described above and explained exactly what I was looking for. 

I used to work with great Realtors who would show up on appraisal day and greet the Appraiser with a folder full of comps that were very flattering, plus paperwork describing in glowing detail all of the improvements to the house and their value.I would insist on a new appraisal, and either have your Realtor do the above, or do it yourself.