Can I start light rehab work like paint etc before closing

[Kailas Tare]

I have signed contract for SFR on a vacant property. Owner does not live in house and it's currently empty. Purchase and sale is signed. I have to only wait for bank to complete the closing formalities, but I am confident that closing will go smoothly (my DTI, closing funds and property purchased 15% below market - all positive points). My question is is there a proper and safe way to utilize this wait period and start a paint work before closing. This will allow me to start renting it immediately after closing. I understand in the worst case I might lose $$ spent on paint rehab. But is this something investors do?

[Mike Dymski]

Can't hurt to ask but most prudent sellers would not allow it (all risk, no benefit).