How to get a release of solar panel lien

[Joe S.]

So a seller has 40 K worth of solar panels that they put on their house that is making it a bit hard for it to sell. Is there a way to have the solar panel company release the lien without releasing the person that actually agreed to the solar panels in the first place?

[Chris Mason]

The standard thing that happens is that whatever is left of that $40k outstanding amount owed goes to pay off that debt, so the house can be delivered free and clear of clouds on title as specified in the purchase contract.

If the buyer is an idiot, or the market is so hot that the buyers are forced to behave like they are, then you do sometimes see buyers take over the solar lease or solar loan (PACE loans are common in California) or solar whatever it was.