They didn't succeed for several reasons. First, none of them did the basics, the grunt work. Checking first to ascertain whether or not this business was even a viable one in their area. If it was, checking out the competition, making up a business plan, a mission statement. Setting up goals for themselves for daily, weekly, monthly, short and long term. Setting up a publicity campaign, working with the different media, setting up a marketing plan, networking.
Very few people ever make any money with these so-called 'business opportunities'. I've personally never met even one, though I've known many people who have gotten involved in these businesses. All of them spent more than they ever made back.
During the lease period the renter/optionee must be working to improve their credit score to the point where they can qualify for a loan and buy the home.
Even though there is plenty of sub-prime loan money floating around at the present time... the lease-option method of acquiring a home seems to appeal to many.