I didn't want to put it under contract because I wasn't sure if it was a viable deal until I spoke to an inspector and/or realtor to help me evaluate and look at the property.Would putting it under an Option be a good idea in this instance? 

I just want to make sure we are asking all the right questions when we evaluate this next level deal.  

@Tony Gunter  Wow Tony wish it were that way here in the West.. we had major easement issues in our logging business...

You now need to learn how to find and evaluate deals, until you can do that keep on drawing.

I am currently re-evaluating my marketing strategy and exploring different ways to generate leads.

It seems like a good rule of thumb as a starting place for evaluating properties.  

To evaluate fix and flips or buy and holds, it's critical that you're accurate with your assessment of fair market value.

Currently, evaluating a couple rental properties in NC – where I hope to retire in 10-15 years – and doing as much research as possible.

Your next lender will have to evaluate the circumstances to tell you if they will accept the risk perceived. :) 

Just log on 15 minutes before 5:00 PDT (8:00 eastern) and the "signup" button will change to a "login" button. :)And everyone else - seeya all there!