Rather than a certificate program, though, I think you are more likely to get a good analyst job with a full master's degree in real estate or, better yet, an MBA with a real estate focus.  

For me, it varies depending on the type of home construction and age of home. 

Wait to do that once you know there is some degree of interest from the seller.  

I would say it does vary per deal.

Also, do these fees vary from lender to lender and can you save by shopping around on the closing costs?

An average duplex in my neighborhood is worth $100k, and DOMs will vary from 5 days to 300 at that price point.

When I came back a couple days later, the heat was turned up to 90 degrees, he stole my kitchen faucet and other materials, cut some cable wires, and stole knobs off cabinets, etc.  

If you're working in the field in which your degree is in, then the 2 year work requirement can be waived.

I've been looking at jobs for real estate analyst positions here in Chicago, which falls in line with my degree in economics.

Granted, this somewhat truncated educational path has taken slightly longer than the streamlined, 3-year degree plans my less "distracted" friends followed.