Thanks BP folks (:Alicia, not sure if this is still something of interest to you.

Should I look for something cheaper, or consider renting an apartment for a year or two?

For sure you would "technically" need to pull permits for something like that...but this is likely a case where doing that work isn't going to alarm any neighbors or city officials...Being that it's inside your unit and an enclosed porch.Sam is great and so is @Prashanth Mahakali as far as local Chicago architects go.

Im not sure if its kind of a case of "oh it costs more so it must be nicer" or something like that. 

I usually start with something like this:“We require a 550+ credit score as well as a current job paystub or a co-signer who meets these requirements.

Hey everyone,Jumping into something that's been bugging me, and I'm guessing some of you are feeling it too.

A good REALTOR is worth every penny, particularly when something goes wrong.3.

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. 

Not really wanting to spend more money on something that’s vacant. 

They all offer something different but all have positive momentum.