Inspections when power is turned off.

[Felipe Munoz]

If you were making an offer on a short sale listing, and there was no power to the property, how do you calculate repair costs if you don't know: 1) Does the HVAC work? 2) Does the pool equipment work? Also, the bank has put a cover on the pool as a safety precaution. How do you see the pool itself if you wanted to check for cracks. They aren't going to take it off just so you can take a look before you make an offer.

[Ryan Detig]

@Felipe Munoz  I will say up front that I don't have much experience regarding the pool so I will refrain from commenting on that part.  Regarding question #1, I have a couple of suggestions.  First I would use the serial number on the unit to look at how old the unit is.  This can be a good indicator whether it is working or not.  I personally have been burned when buying a foreclosure with no power on and both HVAC units had to be replaced.  Granted it was my first flip and I did not know anything.  Worse case I would assume the HVAC need replaced to cover yourself.  

[Matthew Paul]

Base your offer on the assumption that everything needs to be replaced . 

[Jon Q.]

It depends...

Are there any obvious signs of flooding, water damage, electrical or gas problems?

If so, and if the seller doesn't allow you to switch on power for your inspection, the risk may be too high and I may just walk.

I agree with what's been said above.  If the seller allows it, get the utility's on in your own name for your inspection.  It'll cost you some $, but it's more than worth it when seeking to limit your risk from severe water pipe problems, electrical/gas problems, AC and furnace which may both be out.  Check serial numbers on AC and furnace too. The average life of an AC is about 13 years, so if it's anywhere close to that old factor a cost of replacement into your offer (usually $3,500 to $5,000).