Jman,
From your question, it appears you are not represented by a real estate broker, which really is most appropriate in these circumstances. Short Sales are a long, challenging process. Also, if the bank sent you the counter offer, it would seem that this is an REO (real estate owned) property, not a short sale. The entity you are dealing with is different than if it is a Short Sale, where the Seller (the bank's borrower) is still involved as far as signatures on offers that are submitted to a bank for approval.
If you ARE represented by a real estate broker, then they should be assisting you in the decision of whether or not to submit an acceptance of the bank's/seller's counter offer, or to respond with your own counter offer. Either way it is your decision if you want the property and what you are willing to pay for it.
If I can help please let me know.
Kris Simpson
World Wide Realty
503-367-5817 - Thu Sep 24 2009, 11:44