FYI for buyers....There is a new rule that went into effect October 1st, 2009 regarding vacant properties here in Hernando County Florida that have Withlacoochee River Electric Coop.  Any property that has been vacant for 6 months or longer has to contact an electrician (I used Mike at Kennedy Electric), the electrician then applies for a building permit for the property that is being sold and inspects the premises to assure the breaker is turned off and to make sure there are no fire hazards, (if there are they can be repaired at that time.)  The electrician then lets the building department know the property is ready for the building inspector to inspect the electricians job an then hopefully signs the release for the electric company to turn the electric back on so that your home inspector can do his job.  All this for a charge of $125.  Whew!!!  I'm tired just typing all this.. So, yes if it's a vacant short sale or foreclosure and has been without electric for 6 months or more, you the buyer will  have to dish out this additional fee to provide electric for your home inspections. 
I know it's one more fee to pay, but I've seen how some unhappy homeowners have left their homes in such a mess and purposely cut electric wires or left the water running on their way out the door.
FYI FOR REALTORS-The Water Department also wants to make sure everything is shut off before they manually turn on the water.  If they turn it on and the meter starts spinning, they turn it right back off and will have to come back for a 2nd time to try again at $35.00 each.  The best way to ensure everything is turned off at the property is to turn the water off at the main.  Ask me how I know this..I learned the hard way after being charged $70.00. 
Can you imagine working at the Electric or Water company having to keep track of all these vacant properties?  

I say let's all work together to move these properties quickly and try to get back to somewhat of a normal housing market someday soon.  
If any more rules come along, we'll be sure to pass them on.   Have a great night!