"How different is the short sale process in CA versus other states that had big gains this decade?"

Speaking for my neck of the woods (Las Vegas), here is an example of a short sale I'm doing this weekend:

Stonebrook Subdivision (by Centex)
Lot 17 (New from builder): $199K after incentives
Lot 48 REO/Bankowned: Listed on MLS for $213K
Lot 21: my Short Sale: $169K offer awaiting lender approval.

Note:  Lot 17, 48, & 21 are all the same floorplan, all in the same subdivision.