Attend in person, bid, if you win you have to pay right then via a cashiers check.

Personally, I've felt the investment has been poorly run in almost every possible way.

i think this is a decision only you can make. im in a similar boat (house hacking my primary) and considering renting the whole thing out to get a solo home for myself. certainly a lot of appeal in that, given how much work goes into the house hack. but whether or not the numbers on cash flow align is up to you. personally i dont think $150 (seems like about 12%?)

I am still personally buying rentals but I am not expecting much in the way of cash flow at the moment.

I highly suggest as many in-person networking events as possible! 

So the question becomes based on their individual and personal tax situation what is the estimated tax burden they'd save? 

Personally I'm against these types of programs, especially 5-figure ones.

Consider whether an LLC is right for you—it can provide liability protection but isn’t essential for a single property, as personal liability insurance and an umbrella policy may suffice.

I don't have any brand preferences personally (I use Fantasy Spas at most of my units but I'm sure there are alot of reputable options), but just make sure wherever you place it is built to handle that type of weight.

I personally do not touch equity in my own home to incorporate into my business.