Solar loan quote and pricing comparison

How to stay smart when going solar.

When you consider going solar, it can be hard to decide what's right for you. How big of a system do I need? Will I still have an electric bill? Will my loan payments ever increase? Will I have a large enough tax liability to receive the tax credit? These are some questions you should have the answer to before you make the commitment and get started.

Common red flags to avoid.

Just like with any sales pitch, if things sound too good to be true, it very well could be. Here are some common sales tactics that shady solar sales representatives may use to deceive you:

• Overstating any available tax credits: While there are some tax credits available for homeowners at the state and federal level, in many cases, homeowners aren't guaranteed to receive the entirety of them, especially if they have a low tax-liability. This depends on your personal financial situation, so research on your own will be the key to avoid being misled.
• High pressure sales tactics: Some representatives will frame loans or offers as a limited time deal. This is intended to make you feel pressure to commit to a project without fully considering the consequences and alternative options. There will always be other opportunities, don't feel forced into a decision you aren't comfortable with.
• Hiding additional costs or fees: Some companies may attempt to hide fees or other unexpected costs deep in a contract, with the hope that you don't see it or ask about it. You should feel comfortable asking about anything you see in your contract, and the company should be very transparent in what your contract contains.

How to make sure you're finding the right deal for you.

With so many red flags around, it can feel impossible to know what to believe. Here's how you can make sure you're doing the right thing when going solar:

• Get competitive offers: No matter where you live, there are sure to be numerous solar installers operating in your area. Reaching out to them, or using resources like Energy Sage, you can make sure you're comparing and getting the system that's right for you.
• Learn more about what incentives you may receive: Tax credits are a huge benefit that can make going solar affordable for you. To find out what incentives you qualify for, and how they work, look into the programs in your area. For information on the federal solar tax credit, check out this article.
• Find the right payment for you: There are many ways to pay for solar panels. This includes paying cash, solar loans, and leases. Each of these options can make sense depending on your situation. Looking into the dealer fees associated with some of these options, the payment structures, and if you can keep any tax credits are big parts of making a decision on what is right for you.