[HI Cobra]

Ernie - I think the main thing you need to get that short sale is patience.

I put my offer in back in August on the one I am working and so far it is
progressing through the steps. If I can get it for my price (pre-approved by
the bank and seller), then I have no problem waiting. If it ends up a no deal,
no problem - I'll look for another if I feel like it at the time, since this is to be
a rental property, not the same as your situation. In my case this deal got
dropped in my lap and after a bit of research, I went for it.

Good luck - and if that doesn't work - like you said, there will be more.
You might just want to keep up the search in the mean time so if it does not
fly, then you are ready to go after another.