Solar lease buyout calculator
Some sellers buy out a solar lease before closing so the buyer doesn't have to take it over. This estimates the value today of the payments left, to check against the company's written quote.
How it works
The calculator adds up the remaining payments (with the yearly increase) and discounts each one back to today at the rate you choose. A higher discount rate gives a lower value today. Everything runs in your browser; nothing you type is sent anywhere.
Questions
How is a solar lease buyout price set?
Each lease company sets its own price. Common methods are the remaining payments, a discounted value of those payments, a fair-market-value appraisal of the equipment, or a buyout schedule printed in the contract.
Is buying out the lease a good idea before selling?
It depends on the price, the buyer and the market. A buyout removes the transfer step and the lease payment, but costs cash at closing. Compare the quote with the remaining payments.
Who owns the panels after a buyout?
The homeowner. Ask the company for a bill of sale, confirmation that any UCC-1 filing is released, and which warranties continue.
How long does a buyout take?
It varies by company, from days to several weeks. Request the written quote early in the listing.
Have the actual contract?
These calculators use the numbers you type. RateMySolar reads the contract itself and gives a graded report card with the MLS solar fields and a remarks description included, for $49.99.
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Estimates only · not financial or legal advice