Good post, but problem with HNT is that the aerial must be high and depends on how many other hotspots in area.
I have some setup and the return is really low... embarrassingly low. $6 from 4 hotspots total. some of them also using so much internet data that I decide to turn off... I wont give 40GB data a month to HNT network for just $30 a month revenue... its like a scam when I think of it.

However, I know it is possible to make alot, but it depends on few factors...
When HNT started people making  $1400 per month, now check reddit, alot of complaints and ppl lucky to make $50 a month.

But you are right... for the OP, he should consider it. or he should save another $1000 and if patient will get a good deal on a profitable asic thats worth it like S17 etc.