Often also we need to support and endorse politicians simply because they will win, and we have to work with them for the next 2, 4, 6 years, even though we hate their guts and every thing they stand for.So it is entirely possible they actually support it.....but having worked on this same exact issue here in Maryland with both the Realtor lobby, Home Builders lobby, and some other groups....my inclination to believe is the support for this was because of much worse legislation that was arising. 

Good and Not So GoodLet Start with the Not so Good 1) No one is going to do it for you: if you are someone who is used to being popular right away as you walk in the room.

A popular choice for CA residents is Pheonix and Texas for obvious reasons.

They don’t realize that an investor or real estate broker who knows the true market value of the property may be taking advantage of them by actively misleading the homeowner as to the true market value.The problems arise when the investor or real estate broker:Drives down the property value in the seller’s mind by showing them comparable properties that aren’t really comparable.Talks to the homeowner about all of the deferred maintenance that the property needs (which may or may not be true).Allows the homeowner to leave items behind (What is that “convenience” worth - the costs of renting a dumpster, hiring two-three workers for a day to unload your house?

Architects could solve various problems which may arise at residential and/or commercial properties.

So attend meet ups and REI events in your area, pass out cards and gather those contacts, and then you'll have some people to call when the need arises.

I am mostly wondering about protection from issues that arise in a property years after someone purchases.

(Or could it be worth just proceeding and risk dealing with any issues, should they arise, like my Salt Lake County landlord friends do?)

They don’t realize that an investor or real estate broker who knows the true market value of the property may be taking advantage of them by actively misleading the homeowner as to the true market value.The problems arise when the investor or real estate broker:Drives down the property value in the seller’s mind by showing them comparable properties that aren’t really comparable.Talks to the homeowner about all of the deferred maintenance that the property needs (which may or may not be true).Allows the homeowner to leave items behind (What is that “convenience” worth - the costs of renting a dumpster, hiring two-three workers for a day to unload your house?

I know the Ohio markets have been popular and the South markets have been popular as well, however, I am still partial to Bakersfield.