Steve,
If you are in a hurry to purchase a home stay away from "Short Sales". If you don't mind waiting six months or more put an offer in with the right to withdraw at any time and keep looking in the mean time. You may be able to find something else that meets your needs at a better price.
The most important thing is to work with a Realtor that represents you. The seller pays the commission so I won't cost you a penny and it's always good to have a professional handle the details.
Good Luck and if you need financing or homeowners insurance give me a call.
Christopher Lyon
Fidelity LLC
We Insure Florida, Inc
941-412-1511
Cell 941-320-7077 - Fri Nov 6 2009, 12:50