I understand the change to gaining access to housing earlier in the story, but the sense of progression is now a bit lacking. Especially with the dialogue after defeating Darak.
The simplest solution is to give you access to either one or two of the cheap homes upon arrival. The Knot in the graveyard, and the Roost in the slums, could become purchasable. Since you’re still a bit of an outsider, you wouldn’t be welcomed into the main community right away. Then when you defeat Darak, you gain access and can now purchase either of the two main homes in town, the Homestead, and the Manor. This way we have housing access early, and you can still provide a sense of progression, and acceptance into the town of Sacrament.
This seems like a good compromise, and maintains the sense of progression, and narrative. Just my two coppers. Cheers!