breezehome is by far NOT the worst.
riften is pretty meh, and dont get me started on windhelm's PITA house, totally not worth its trouble, i'll tell you what.
proudspire manor in solitude is by far the best house in the game.
as far as your issue, as previously stated, make sure you are going to him between 10am 8pm. i have found those times to be best for all npcs.