I would still need to to my own title search and inspection correct? 

I planted the seed of a "subject to" to give him something to consider. 

I find homes all the time that need minimal work and are too much to get at a deep discount because the owners know that it's worth more but not in the condition that real estate agents are used to, to show and sell.So I wanted to know if there were any lease option investors in the area.Sandwich lease options are a great way to invest because you can cash flow and have the potential to make a nice profit when the tenant-buyer buys.

Are there any certifications that would benefit me, or Associations I should belong to to up my worth?

The deal involved purchase of a small NC manufacturing facility in toto; so customer lists, proprietary processes, service marks, inventory, equipment, the facility, ... assumption of liens, etc.

Absolutely spot, however one must have the discipline to to so.  

If you hire property manangement to to care for your tenants they will probably never know you own the property.

IMO, a lease option doesn't accomplish what you need it to to do.

You can use this for your own benefit of having contractors lined up immediately after closing or use to to show the seller and negotiate further.

We closed on 4/7.It took my guys just over 3 weeks, to add an unofficial 3rd bedroom, paint the place head to toe, redo half the flooring (home depot allure flooring at $.99 i'm a huge fan), take care of a bunch of exterior maintenance issues, put in new appliances, do some minor kitchen work, replace the hot water heater, couple of other small things.