homeowners need to be educated on the negatives of purchasing solar panels with a long term note..... that's a payment that could cost a homeowner a sale in the future....

Not a danger with solar, sometimes a danger with the way they set up the deal. And the fossil fuel dealers will spend millions to try to scare away energy that they cannot sell.

I did this twice. Once, I financed and paid it off. The second time cash. The small print hurts your eyes....lol

Buyers and Sellers need to proceed with their eyes wide open ... in my area many agents market the property has solar but fail to mention that it is not paid for may cause issues with the sale. 

You certainly can't sell something that is not owned and I agree unless you own the system it can become an issue.  We added solar in 2105 and purchased the system.  My only regret is not doing it sooner.  I think the conversation with sellers should be if you lease your solar system let's discuss the alternatives if the new buyer doesn't want or can't qualify to take over the lease.  Some sellers will pay it off and others will have the solar company remove if this becomes an issue.  Solar is here to stay and we need to have reasonable solutions for our clients.  Good topic as it comes up often.

You seem to have an agenda.

Those long term agreements are no good. It doesn't come up much in my area, but I'm aware of this situation and would certainly have my buyers look into it. 

I have never sold a home with solar. The cost is so high in my area that is is not an option homeowners choose.

People keep promoting solar in this area, but they forget to mention long term leases and liens. People need to be wary of and " Easy Financing " and " $10,000.00 tax cedit" sales lingo.

I have them read up on it.

It's a discussion but danger is not a part of the conversation.  

No, they don't ask me.  I do counsel to avoid listings with solar panels though.

I do however advise when asked on NextDoor not to lease them.  Buy them out right. 

The word "Scam" comes to mind. Most people wind up in a 20 year contract on leased equipment that will be obsolete in 3-5 years. Many utilize the HERO program which then makes it impossible to refinance their homes. Fannie issued a bulletin on this very recently. homeowners also face a bigger problem if they go to sell their property. The new owners can either agree to assume the terms of the remainder of the lease, or the seller will have to pay for it out of the sales proceeds--which is often between $10,000 to $20,000. The solar company records the contract against title so that they are notified that a change of ownership or a financing change is taking place.

I blogged about this a few years ago...

We do discuss it and I am sure folks quickly forget.

Many pitfalls to solar including the long term costs before benefits kick in!

Solar is very popular in Arizona since we have a lot of sun. It depends on the deal itself.

Typically we don't meet clients until after the deed is done and they're ready to sell.

No, has not been an issue for me.

was not aware

Danger with solar panels? Doesn't make sense, are we sure it's not a problem with intallation?

WIthin the last year it has exploded here in NH. I have not listed a solar home yet so have not faced it head on. I have though heard the rumblings

Thank you.

We don't pursue listing homes that have leased solar...

Many home owners are shocked when told that the outstanding balance must be paid at settlement when they sell.

No, I'm not. I just don't see it in my area so it's not apoint of discussion.

Tony Lewis - sometimes  some homes come with it... you just can't change that!

Tony Lewis This is very good helpful report on installing solar on a home.

Great thread, thanks all for this discussion.

I agree with Barbara Todaro ..education is the key!

There is very little solar in this area, but I do give them information to check out.

Thanks for heads up Tony Lewis 

The PA contracts identity leased items such as propane tank or security system.  I am not aware of any residential property with solar panels yet.

Just saw electric fence powered by small solar panel.  Purpose: keep the black bear away from six bee hives in western NY.  We were attending family gathering at relatives home

Those lease systems can be a rip off.  I get one call a month soliciting..... 

It is unpopular at the moment. Came back from Solar Engr Exhibit/convention.

I believe sellers need to have a solution if they ever decide to sell their homes, and they are still making payments for those solar panels.  More folks are getting these panels for energy efficiency.