Option-writing, an activity that insures the purchaser against asset-price movements, creates a particular danger.

ECONOMIST: Buttonwood

Antos says that's because while in a real market a bigger purchaser gets a better price, Medicare isn't a real market.

NPR: Democrats to Push for Medicare Changes

"As long as there is sufficient demand, as long as a potential purchaser recognizes and is interested in an object, the price is secondary, " says Emile Garcin broker David Stanley.

FORBES: Real Estate