It is extremely frustrating that they actually show the content, let you read a paragraph or so, THEN won't let you continue without paying in some way. I won't be supporting this website.
Could you expand a little bit on the concept of active-model-serialization not scaling? Are you referring to the performance issues, or another problem?
I have personally found Renting housing in Canada to be tremendous value. Some of these homes in Calgary, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Hamilton, Ottawa and other non Toronto/Vancouver cities can be rented for cheap. Homes which would sell for around $700k can be rented for around $2000 a month. In Calgary right now, nice apartments can be had for around $1000/month all in.