I want the training, but what I don't want is my instructor charging me for almost twice as much as it would cost me to go diving on my own (even worse since I dive with a dive op and he just rents a "panga"). Since we don´t live by the sea, he charges a lot just to come to certify us (my buddy is in the same situation), so if the certifications can be made in only one weekend, that would be better for me.
You need experience, not cards. Also, you may think diving instruction is expensive, but compare what the hourly rate it is for an auto mechanic or other professional. This instructor, is a professional who brings years of training and experience to his students. Also he/she has equipment to maintain, promotional & pre-training time, time to drive to and from the dive site, the time with you, and the time of cleanup and then paperwork. Just something to think about.
Diving is expensive, especially if you dive without instruction.
Ask (and pay for) more time (dives) with the instructor. If you don't feel they are worth it, find a better mentor - and be sure to pay more.
I'm not an instructor.
And you don't want to know my hourly fee - until you need me.