What can I do if the defaulting owner strips fixtures or chattels before a power of sale closing?

Unfortunately, this is a real risk in power of sale purchases, and your practical options can be more limited than they would be after an ordinary sale gone wrong. A defaulting owner who knows they are losing the property sometimes removes fixtures, appliances, or other items included in the sale before the lender or buyer has a chance to prevent it, and because the power of sale agreement is typically structured "as is" with limited representations, there may be little in the contract itself to fall back on.

Your recourse generally depends on what was specifically identified in the agreement as included, what condition existed at the time you agreed to buy, and whether the removal happened before or after that point was fixed. In practice, pursuing the former owner personally for the value of what was taken can be difficult, since that person is often already in significant financial distress, though your lawyer can advise on whether a claim against them or an adjustment through the lender is realistic.

A final walk-through as close to closing as reasonably possible, and clear documentation of the property's condition when you agreed to buy, are your best practical protections here.