(It was BS but still had to lawyer up and fight it)Some speculation is that since many owners do not live in their jurisdiction and the tenants do, they are the ones that vote for them not owners that live in other areas or states.

My existing contractor just recently had his license temporarily suspended due to unsecured scaffolding and now is fighting a $13k fine in court.

As far as a "sweet spot" I'd say it really depends on what you're looking for... the closer you are to the city the more tenants there are fighting for your unit, BUT with that in mind the closer you are to the city the less cash flow there is. 

Is it worth fighting over?

The high HOA fee had me really worried and I was trying to fight my instinct to find a place.

Wholesalers v flippers v buy and hold.) who gets hit worst and how does each types strategy to fight the downturn differ?

I mean I have been give some awesome off-market deals from Realtors don't get me wrong, but deals that you don't have to fight for seem more appealing to me. 

My grandmother is currently fighting Cancer battle #3, and we suspect she'll be joining your mom soon.

You've kind of depressed me, Don, with your explanation of the new Socialist REO system.Then again, J Scott has filled me with a bright new determination to fight past bank rejection until my bid is finally low enough.

Seems like it would be the $270,200.00 but I would think it would be worth fighting for saying it was the assessed value in that case!