We have had to change our strategy when working with buyers.  At one point submitting an offer for a buyer on a bank owned property was easy.  Put the offer in and wait 2-3 days for the response.  Now it has turned into the Spanish Inquisition!  Copies of cashier's checks needed, must use ABC Lender to get preapproved, etc.  So now I submit multiple offers on REO properties and wait and see who responds first!  That is the same strategy we use when working with buyers looking to purchase a short sale.  As they say, "the situation is fluid."