I do the same things (self-hosted server, NAS storage, DNS, email, http for a handful of domains, some development VMs) and it's really set-and-forget. It doesn't require maintenance. Every once in a while LetsEncrypt's certbot falls over and I have to log in to manually refresh ssh certificates, but HN commenters tell me it's user error, so it's something I can also fix to be set-and-forget if I really cared.

My self-hosting infrastructure will probably outlive me.

The person you're replying to said they maintained a homelab for 15 years. I'm sure they have the experience to correctly gauge the amount of effort required. What you're arguing is qualitative. There is _some_ maintenance, as you admitted, and the OP has other priorities.

I personally relate to the person you're replying to. I sleep better not worrying about HDD health or if my APs can reach their controller. Tried it - not for me.