Need Rent Advice ASAP-Re:Short Sale

[Mark McDermott]

I am interested in renting a house which is awaiting short sale approval. There apparently is one contract signed on this property. The realtor says the short sale will take at least 6 months to be approved/rejected. A few questions here. If I sign a 12 month lease contract, if the short sale is approved in 6 months, does the new owner have to honor my 12 month lease? Also, can the current seller continue to show the home for sale before the short sale is approved? Can I get stipulations put in the lease agreement to prevent these things? How can I protect myself as a tenant in this situation? Should I even get involved in this? It is a perfect location and the house is perfect for my family of four. I cannot afford to buy the house at this time. Wife is not working yet, taking care of the kids (2 years and 5 months). Thank you!! Mark