The landlord, upon hearing all these numbers she got scared and she said that she would just hire a contractor/ handyman to write up an estimate and submit that estimate to the insurance company.

You should also be able to research if the plant has had any issues or health violations. 

@Nathan G.HI Nathan, As of May 21, the official Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment website shows deaths DUE to Covid-19 as 1001 with positive cases of 22,797. 

Or would it typically reduce the value since the cell phone tower is pretty close to the house and could potentially be considered an eyesore or health hazard (for the people who believe that)?

You may have to wait a few months though, as it looks like their 203k program is currently suspended due to the COVID-19 health crisis.My guess is, RI Housing doesn't know for sure because they are just administering the program and may not make the final decision, or it's just a case that comes up rarely enough that they're not sure how their underwriting models will score you.The FHA site does indicate that self-employed loans are potentially do-able, which may be why you're asking, and I even found an indication that it may have gotten easier recently, but again, it's just speculation until you can force them to make a decision by actually applying.In the meantime, do what you can to get your documentation in order as you would for any mortgage application of course.For instance, if you haven't filed your 2019 taxes yet (I haven't done mine either 😭) now would be a great time to do it since they can't accept applications anyway.

It always has and always will scare me when the federal government shows up and say's "Don't worry, we're here to help."

Hopefully you have people in your network that you can ask a favor of w/o strings (I'm in NC and would be happy to take a look if you DM me).Otherwise, I wouldn't let the size scare you off.

What benefits are you intending to capitalize on - how will health insurance premiums, retirement contributions, etc. be affected?)

As we were leaving the property the seller says, "Now listen, the price I asked, don't let that scare ya.

Haven’t even tried to get a loan because everyone keeps scaring me off saying you need net worth to cover the loan