Unfortunately, real estate is often messy so I can't say I'm too surprised, so I'll do what I can to talk through each thing.The rate float is not uncommon, as we've seen the 10 year treasury fluctuate a bit the last month or so, so I wouldn't be surprised if they had originally quoted something (guessing low 7s?)

To my surprise, bidders are reaching market value and in some cases I even saw a bid go above market value.

You will be surprised by the people who will reach out to help you, such as wholesalers, contractors, investors, real estate agents, lenders, and more.

@Samson Tefera : I am surprised that no one mentioned "Nature's Miracle"!!!

With the attorney not doing proper notice, the firm handles many many foreclosures and I would be surprised if this was the case. 

I will also be super surprised at how many buyers he actually brings to your listings and they close.Maybe check with the other agents in the office if they have the same deal? 

I've had broken windows, paint, and plumbing items flagged for repair but never stairs; although I have seen some really poorly constructed staircases and it's not terribly surprising to me that something like that could get flagged.Ultimately It's negotiable with the seller, although you should come to terms with the fact that you're an FHA buyer, and the seller would not have this issue with a conventional buyer; it entirely depends on your circumstances whether this is actually something the seller should pay for or not. 

one thing that surprised me was the HOA fees, and the management fees.

It continues to surprise me how many landlords approach us to manage their properties without having proper leases in place with their tenants during the transition.

.: Graduate from collegeGet the highest paying job you canReduce your expensesSave up enough to house hackHouse hackIn a year or two, refinance and house hack againRepeatGood luck A surprisingly verbose response from you.