Solar panels can be a great way to lower energy costs and increase a home's appeal, but whether you’re buying or selling a home with solar, there are some important considerations to keep in mind. In Placer County, where areas like Roseville, Rocklin, Lincoln, and Auburn experience rising energy costs—especially in PG&E-serviced areas where rates have increased over 38% since 2021—solar can be an attractive investment. However, evaluating ownership, financing, and roof condition is essential before making a decision. Here’s what you need to know:
For Buyers Considering a Home with Solar Panels
✅ Fully-Owned Panels Add Value – If the solar panels are fully owned, they are treated as part of the home and included in the sale, potentially increasing the property’s value.
✅ Leased or Financed Panels Require Extra Steps – If the panels are leased or financed, the agreement must be transferred to the buyer, which requires lender approval and a signed Transfer Agreement.
✅ Appraisals & Mortgage Considerations – Solar panels are noted in appraisals, but they can only be assigned value if they are owned outright. Mortgage lenders require homes to have an alternative power source in case of system failure.
✅ Check for Liens – If the panels are financed, there may be a UCC (Uniform Commercial Code) filing, which acts as a lien on the property and must be addressed before closing.
For Sellers Thinking About Adding Solar Panels
✅ Weigh the Costs vs. Benefits – While solar panels can reduce energy costs and attract buyers, leased or financed panels can complicate the sale. If your home is in PG&E territory, solar may be more appealing to buyers than in areas with lower-cost electricity providers like Roseville Electric.
✅ Consider Your Roof – If your roof is older or made of a material that is difficult to work on, you could face significant added costs when it comes time for repairs or replacement. Uninstalling and reinstalling panels can be expensive, so it’s important to plan ahead.
✅ Future Marketability – If you plan to sell within a few years, consider how your financing arrangement could impact the ease of selling your home.
For Sellers Who Already Have Solar Panels
✅ Know Your Solar Agreement – If your panels are leased or financed, gather all necessary documentation and check if the lease can be transferred.
✅ Work with an Experienced Agent – Buyers will have questions, and an agent who understands how solar affects a sale can help smooth the process.
✅ Resolve Liens Early – If a lien has been placed on your home due to financing, it will need to be subordinated or removed before closing.
Final Thoughts
Solar panels can be a great asset, especially in areas with rising energy costs, but they also add layers of complexity to a real estate transaction. Whether you’re buying or selling a home with solar, understanding how ownership, financing, roof condition, and appraisals affect the process is key.
If you have questions about buying or selling a home with solar panels in Placer County, I’m here to help. Give me a call at (916) 316-5626 or visit www.OwnPlacer.com to learn more!
Posted by Patrick Hake on
Leave A Comment