So there are tons of great niches and unique backgrounds on this website.Definitly check out the blogs, podcast and forums.

By far the best deal I've found in California lately (condo is in a good neighborhood near 15 fwy /60 fwy interchange).I know I have the dreaded "sample size of 1" to work with but am I crazy to think that I should focus on going after short sales and look for unique opportunities in CA to give offers under asking? 

Most here can't define real property and why it is valuable or explain why RE is unique and different fro other investments, The basis for valuations, nor have I seen much on the three valuation techniques of property and why one is given more weight than another.

I'm very very new to the real estate market and looking for any useful and unique tips on evaluating my first investment purchase and getting off to the right start.

While it is going to have some desirability all year long I would guess that summers and winters (assuming you are close enough to the ski areas) will be the best.  

I'm interested in learning more about these unique appliances since that might be the only option I have.  

These strategies all involve their own unique twists.

Deals are hard to come by, but demand is very high and desirability is great.

They are very desireable fir vacation and retirement.

That makes a huge difference.To be clear, you have made some inaccurate assumptions from my post, I was pointing out that CF requires not only more costs than simply going to a private or hard money lender, but the process, timeline, red tape, and proof of funds for your offer make the choice of CF less desirable than the later (in my initial opinion).