Ok, ready for some reality checks from a person who was there, seen it, done it, survived to tell the tales? 

I do want to "add" to the realities you discussed!

You're usually spot on, but this advice is based off myth more than reality. 

I printed and hung up that picture as motivation to keep pushing toward the dream of breaking free from that reality. 

The fear of missing the 45 day time frame is almost always greater than the reality of it. 

So yes, that IS the reality of agents out there.

The reality is the opposite - if it's not in writing then the PMC doesn't have to provide the service or can charge extra for it!

The reality is this is not simply a real estate investment decision it also involves personal lifestyle, life changes, and other factors. 

Two different animals really and I don't see creative financing is typically a reality with either option.Typically for tax liens and deeds you will need cash to be a player and cash that you can tie up for 1 year or two at minimum.   

The reality is the opposite - if it's not in writing then the PMC doesn't have to provide the service or can charge extra for it!