No, people don't rent to 1500. They build time, get entry level instructing or commercial positions and actually learn a little about flying while building their time to 135 or ATP minimums.
Wrong. I know of at least 3 people that are doing this. Including myself. Its called being in a field that makes you money and has nothing to do with aviation. Thats how you fund yourself to 1500 hours without having to instruct.