I agree with you for the most part. It is really hard for new users to gain any following. I've managed 60+ followers thus far. Had some articles on the Hot list before but I don't believe any of them have ever hit 'Trending' which is no big deal.

I have used paid votes to try to boost my post exposure maybe 2 or 3 times, but I didn't have enough money in my account for it to make a difference anyway (all of my earnings have gone to SP besides like $7.).

I do agree that the paid upvotes give a scammy appearance to Steemit. If not scammy then a sort-of 'elitist' view of it where the people with money are the ones that get seen. But, I guess the free market is kind of working itself out with these flag wars. Kinda curious to see what effect this will have in the end.