"Actually" and "To be honest" - I understand why one would say these things - but why would someone write them?

It’s a reflex, a stall for more time, if you will, but it sort of implies the opposite; up until now you weren’t be actual or honest? Now you will be?

So why write it? Why begin and a written answer with To be honest? I don’t think it lends support or credibility – I find it quite odd. I asked a question, you know the answer. What is it? Why the need to precede it with To be honest?