So much to learn, adding the stress of doing all of this on your own seems like a mistake for most people.  

If I get a response on one of the properties, I will then assess the value and financial situation, see how much they owe and proceed accordingly with a short sale (if possible) or simply buy the house from them.  

I'm just trying to figure out what's fair for this specific situation. 

@Quinton Oake, I am sorry to hear about your unfortunate situation.

I've had new VA clients this year miss out on properties in multiple offer situations by asking the seller to pay their closing costs (against my firm advice to the contrary) because of something they read online or someone told them about VA loans.

Do I have the same situation on the commercial lending side of a lender? 

I do stress, commercial grade dehumidifiers.

Bank financing with a construction loan - harder to get for a newbie, but doable depending on your situation.

I'm kind of wondering if paying the capital gains tax might be worth it in this situation.

Please don't take the situation and work your best interests.