Owned Solar
Usually simpler. The system is part of the property without a separate ongoing buyer obligation, subject to actual title and contract details.
Solar Loan
The seller may still owe money. Questions:
- Is the loan paid at closing?
- Can it be assumed?
- Is there a recorded lien?
- Does the buyer have to qualify?
Solar Lease / PPA
The buyer may need to take over contractual obligations. This can affect:
- Mortgage qualification
- Monthly expenses
- Closing timeline
Never Say “Solar Is Paid Off” Without Proof
Review actual documents. The panels existing on the roof do not tell you the financial structure.
Seller Strategy
If you're listing, gather the solar agreement BEFORE receiving an offer. A buyer should not discover a complicated transfer requirement a week before closing.
Buyer Strategy
Ask before making assumptions about:
- Electric savings
- Transfer
- Ownership
- Loan balance
- Roof implications
Property DNA
Property DNA may help identify additional property questions, but it does not replace reviewing the actual solar contract.
Have solar? Let Lisa review the transaction issues before the home goes live.
Gather the agreement, loan and title details first so buyers are not surprised during escrow, and so the sale does not stall over the panels.
