New Investor-When to inspect HUD Home?

[Kevin McGinnis]

This post is 2-fold. First, to introduce myself to Bigger Pockets. I've been staying in the background, learning as much as I can, and now feel comfortable enough to start participating. I'm a new investor near St. Louis (IL side), and intend to start with fix/flip, and ultimately buy/hold.

Second part is a question: I've had my offer accepted on a HUD property, and waiting for a copy of the signed contract. I've paid an earnest money deposit of $1,000, and understand it is not refundable. Also, the home is winterized, and inspection report indicates a leak in the plumbing system.

I have not done a property inspection yet, and do not see the point in doing it prior to getting the utilities turned back on, and the plumbing leak fixed (after closing). Any opinions on the timing of inspection for a HUD home that is winterized?

Thanks,
Kevin McGinnis