Solar panels can be an appealing feature when shopping for a home, especially for buyers interested in energy efficiency. But seeing panels on the roof does not tell you who owns them or whether money is still owed. If the solar system was financed, the outstanding obligation can become an important part of the home purchase conversation.
First Find Out Who Owns the System
Solar arrangements can vary. The homeowner may own the system outright, be paying off a solar loan, or have another type of agreement associated with the equipment. Those distinctions matter because purchasing the house does not necessarily make every financial obligation connected to the solar system disappear.
Buyers should determine how the system was acquired and request documentation early in the transaction.
An Outstanding Loan Raises Questions
If the seller financed the solar panels and a balance remains, buyers need to understand what is supposed to happen to that obligation when the property changes hands.
Depending on the agreement, the seller may need to satisfy the balance, or there may be provisions involving a transfer to the buyer. The specific contract and financing arrangement will determine what options are available.
If a buyer is expected to assume an obligation, that additional payment may also need to be considered as part of the buyer’s financial picture.
Ask About More Than the Monthly Payment
The amount of the solar payment is important, but it should not be the only question.
Buyers should understand the remaining balance, length of the agreement, transfer requirements, warranties, maintenance responsibilities, and what happens if the roof needs replacement or repair.
It is also useful to review actual energy bills rather than assuming that solar panels automatically produce a particular amount of savings.
Do the Research Early
Solar financing can become more difficult to address when it is discovered late in the mortgage process.
If a home has solar panels, buyers should ask about ownership and financing before assuming the system is simply included with the property. Relevant documentation can then be reviewed by the appropriate parties while there is still time to address questions.
Solar panels themselves do not have to make purchasing a home complicated. The key is knowing what comes with them.
Before falling in love with the idea of lower energy bills, find out whether you are looking at a fully owned home feature or a system that still carries a financial obligation.