Banks are required to offer you all options that are possible and in your case, it's a short sale.

Can anyone who has done this offer any tips and tricks?

What was the exit strategy offered or communicated by the GP?

Just recently a client made an offer on a new million dollar listing within 24 hours of it coming to market and there was a cash offer that was accepted at a lower price point the same day.

Most national or mainstream mortgage lenders do not offer Super Jumbo mortgage loans (typically above $1.5-$2.5M) Although Super Jumbo Loan Lenders can provide loan amounts from $3M-30M+The majority of these buyers obtain their mortgage recommendation through their real estate professional or frequently through their existing private or premium banking relationship. 

I'd like to echo Brian's idea on considering hard money lending as potential strategy.Hard money lending can offer similar to even higher returns compared to traditional real estate investments, often ranging from 8-15%, providing the cash you're looking for even in A/B areas.

It’s great for getting an idea of what similar properties are going for in your area.Zillow Rental Manager: Not only can you list and manage your rental property here, but it also offers rental price estimates based on local market data.AirDNA: While primarily focused on short-term rentals, AirDNA offers data that can help you set prices for medium-term rentals by providing insights into occupancy rates and revenue projections.PriceLabs: This dynamic pricing tool adjusts rental rates based on demand, seasonality, and local events.

I know a guy who does this, Maybe he can offer insight 

Depending on your market buying a duplex might be feasible but many down payment assistance programs do not offer credit for multi-families. 

If you plan to invest somewhere else, who is the top agent for investments in the area that could point you to a good mentor, or offer mentorship themselves?