The winterized house thing is a bit of a hassle... and it's only going to get worse with all of the forclosures.

One interesting thing I picked up at a cont. ed conference once that a lot agent aren't even aware of is that in most purchase agreements the sellers agree to keep the property fully functional with all of the utilities on and in 'working order' for the purposes of inspection.

This has helped me get out from under being the 'bad guy' because I won't de-winterize the place. I've had several agents pull out the paperwork on the kitchen counter only to find out I'm right. It's fun watching them call and scream at the listing agent.... you'd think the agents would read this stuff......