I think IRS "ruling" is deliberate to control pace and direction of growth.  First property, then currency.

Will change as bitcoin evolves and grows up.

Not going to look it up now but watch Small Business committee? hearing on bitcoin which had Jerry Brito etc
as witnesses.  They mentioned Germany classifying bitcoin as a private currency for tax purposes. etc

4 members of Congress (I think) questioning 4 witnesses.  All 4 members of congress love bitcoin.