I do wonder if some buyers bail too soon just because the list looks long, not because the fixes are actually hard or expensive.
- 100% agree with this. The inspection list looks intimidating, but when you break it down, most items are minor. I’ve seen people walk away from deals over stuff like a missing GFCI outlet or a loose stair tread.
- Honestly, the “nitpicky” part is just how these loans work. RHS (and even FHA) have to make sure the property is safe and habitable. It’s not about making your life harder, it’s about their investment being protected.
- Lower monthly payment is a big deal. If you’re willing to do a little DIY, you’re getting a better deal in the long run.
- I get wishing inspectors would chill, but they’re just following the checklist. They don’t really have a choice—if they miss something, it comes back on them later.
- If you’re handy, you’re in a great spot. Most of the “big scary” inspection lists are just a weekend project and $100 at the hardware store.
- I’d rather deal with a picky inspection and save money every month than pay more for a loan with looser standards.
- One tip: keep receipts and take before/after pics of anything you fix. Sometimes the lender wants proof before closing, and it makes things smoother.
I’ve been through both FHA and RHS. RHS was stricter on little things, but the payment difference was worth it for me. Just keep your cool, knock out the list, and you’ll be glad you stuck with it.
Honestly, I’ve seen folks get scared off by a laundry list of repairs, but half the time it’s stuff like tightening a railing or swapping out a smoke detector. The lower payment with RHS really does add up over time. I’d rather spend a Saturday fixing things than pay more every month.
I’d rather spend a Saturday fixing things than pay more every month.
I get that, but what about when the “Saturday” turns into three weekends and a YouTube rabbit hole? I tried swapping a light fixture once and ended up calling my cousin, who’s an electrician... and now I owe him dinner. Lower payments are great, but sometimes I wonder if the hidden costs (and headaches) of repairs sneak up on you. Anyone else ever feel like they’re in over their head with these “simple” fixes?
Definitely been there. I thought “how hard can it be to fix a leaky faucet?” and next thing I know, I’m watching hour-long plumbing tutorials and my kitchen looks like a hardware store exploded. Ended up calling my dad, who just laughed and handed me a wrench.
I get wanting to save money, but sometimes the DIY route feels like a trap—especially when you factor in all the random tools you suddenly “need.” Lower payments are awesome, but I swear, my weekends have turned into home improvement marathons.
Honestly, I’m starting to think the real hidden cost is my sanity... and maybe a few lost Saturdays.
Honestly, I’m starting to think the real hidden cost is my sanity... and maybe a few lost Saturdays.
Couldn’t agree more—lower payments are great, but nobody warns you about the “weekend warrior” tax. I’ve seen buyers get so excited about affordable mortgages (RHS or FHA), then realize they’re suddenly experts in grout and caulk. On the bright side, you’ll have some hilarious stories to tell at your next housewarming... once your kitchen’s back together.
