I find it hard to believe that the rich/big corporations would open numerous accounts for coverage.

The risk of being liable for buybacks, paying for audits and so on just isn't worth the reward of a couple thousand dollars on each transaction.  2. 

The system is rewarding failure and laziness and is penalizing success and hard work. 

Only you can decide if the opportunitY aspect meets your risk/reward ratio.

If, say, you were new at this and had no track record then you'd be a riskier investment and any partner would deserve a reward commensurate to such risk.

County officials either do an appraisal in the office or by driving properties and can be based on numerous things such as an increase in average sales price of houses in the county/area. 

I've sold homes in that area for 80k and up and have plenty of rentals going right now. it is a risk reward type situation but you have to be prepared and have the right strategy. jerry

Takes plenty of vacations to nice places, mostly paid with rewards points, including hotels and airlines.

The living situation was less private but the reward was worth it.

I am sure that BiggerPockets.com will be an invaluable resource for your new endevour, I know it has provided countless points of motivation for me.The most rewarding forum, at this point for me is the Success Stories section.I wish you the best of luck!!