Seller refusing to turn on water

[Anthony Solis]

So I'm currently working on getting an additional rental. I've been having the worst time with the sellers as of late. Most recent seller is refusing to turn on the water for any reason so unfortunatly a big part of the inspection will be missing. Curious if anybody has any personal experience with closing on a property without knowing the water situation. (Property is currently vacant and winterized)

[David Lee Hall, III]

Have you tried making it worth their time to turn it on? I wouldn't recommend threatening pulling the deal (assuming you want it) as that will just create confrontation. Ask them "how you are supposed to complete the inspection" or "how you are to get an accurate estimate of repairs without testing water systems." Make them answer your questions. You could point out winter is almost over, if that have concerns about freezing still (assuming property is in DE) you could ask "what if we delayed closing until it warmed up so you would not need to worry" - just be sure you get an extended out if you do that. The most important thing is that it is about them - they want to sell the property. They probably have fear that you will find leaks or cause damage - you need to find that pain. Once you find that pain, speak the scenario back to them. You want them to know you understand their perspective. Then try to have them solve the dilemma through how/what questions.