@Brian Eastman thanks for the response.

No attorney can really help you as the bank has no responsibility, or perhaps even the legal ability, to negotiate anything with you.You have no recourse against the county or the courts.  

@Matthew Auletta Hi Matt, thanks for the response.

What utilities should a land lord be responsible for paying and what utilities should a tenant pay?

It's possible with a longer time on market, they may be open to a lower price.2) being sold by owner - may be more opportunity here. price may be over/under market value.3) foreclosure - bank is motivated to sell. may be willing to sell under value especially in a slow area.based on this, it seems like best bet would be to pursue houses sold by owner, foreclosures, and listings that have been on market for a while. there also is a whole other approach of finding motivated sellers - drive bys, bandit signs, etc. 

If they complete a short sale they will receive a 1099 for the difference ($1M) and may be responsible to pay taxes on that 'phantom income'. 

There just isn't enough information provided to give a proper response.

Thanks for your responses and sorry about the typos.

Then, when they enroll in the local schools, I had to sign an affidavit certifying they are tenants, on the lease, and furthermore I'm responsible for fines, and reimburse the town for money spent on educating an illegal resident.

Thanks for the response, I will be listening to your episode on my way into work tomorrow!