Like they say, there is no reality, only perception.

Never take their word for it, a sellers perception of necessary repairs and cost is usually way off.

I put my experience vs most people’s perceptions into a blog.  

Margins for builders are too narrow, the bureaucratic process is too slow, and political division undermines governmental programs.Our societal obsession with stuff and the need for bigger, faster, and cheaper doesn't help either - but that is a different post.Thanks for the information - I'll have to go and read the report.Don

There will always be some political or societal event that make people question whether then is a good time to buy.

The backyard is an eye sore perception issue so you need to replace dry rot, paint, add drought tolerant or add a deck.If it takes also 60 some days I will be concerned with interest charges etc.

https://www.biggerpockets.com/blogs/9232/55313-intro-to-section-8---your-perceptions-vs-my-realities

On the flip side its definitely more expensive, that's usually the case when there's a higher perception of risk from the lender's perspective.You're always going to make your money when you buy, so if you get a project under contract for the right price, you're going to make money.

It is far too easy to create the perception of intent as resale which would blow your exchange up.  

And all that leads to the perception of a un-cool and un-sexy industry.