We weren't buying it as an investment, instead it was to be our "forever home."  

I think the reality is most folks have the mind set that they will own these homes for ever kind of like a marriage ... but something down the line happens either its too much work or they get a problem property etc. and they want to exit and then they find it next to impossible to exit at a price that will make them whole. 

Hope this helps:First, as a Property Manager for over 20 years I have found that Home Warranties to be an absolute nightmare when it comes to tenants, owners and warranty companies.I find that most of the time they magically don't cover the item that you are calling about, and you end up paying a service call fee, calling another vendor and then paying for and repairing it anyway.They also take forever to get someone out to take care of anything.

Orita Issartel here is my two cents with a blog I wrote last year:First, as a Property Manager for over 20 years I have found that Home Warranties to be an absolute nightmare when it comes to tenants, owners and warranty companies.I find that most of the time they magically don't cover the item that you are calling about, and you end up paying a service call fee, calling another vendor and then paying for and repairing it anyway.They also take forever to get someone out to take care of anything.

I have actually been looking for one for a few years, but most are in such bad shape, it would take me forever to clean them up.

They will hold forever. 

Do you think the rates should have stayed low forever?

Leave the check (and letter) in the envelope unopened if it is ever returned, and keep it on file that way (forever).

Things like assuming markets will for ever climb or their expenses will remain consistent. 

I'm a buy-and-hold-and-rent-forever sort of investor.