Now why is it that Catholics always go with the works based salvation thing?
The Church does not teach that works are the cause of Salvation, but Salvation is impossible apart from good works. Works, the corporeal and spiritual works of mercy that are the Fruit of the Holy Spirit, are the evidence of the presence of the Holy Spirit in the heart of the believer. When there are no good works in your life the Holy Spirit is absent too.
Peace be with you