I have been in the solar industry since 2008. Between my husband and me, we’ve worked with dozens of solar companies, enabled over a megawatt each of installed solar energy, and participated in many “firsts” of the industry. I use that experience to help homeowners make informed, honest decisions about solar – without the pressure, the misleading “free solar” pitch, or the rep who hasn’t read the contract they’re selling.
Why the Solar Wing Exists
The solar industry today is dominated by undertrained, commission-hungry reps who mislead clients with “free” claims, don’t understand the technology, and haven’t read the contracts they sell. The result: public skepticism, rising cancellations, and damaged reputations – for an industry that genuinely changes people’s financial lives for the better when done right.
I started in solar at the Solar Living Institute in 2007, then joined Sungevity as one of the first people to remotely design and sell solar systems nationwide. At SolarCity, I became a Senior Energy Consultant, won the Megawatt Club award, received a special national award for client dedication, and helped transform the Oregon office from failing to top-performing. After Tesla acquired SolarCity, I left when I saw client care break down. Clients still called me for support years later.
Now I’m an independent solar broker through Powur – the platform that has done what many solar companies tried and failed: created a clean, consumer-first model with access to every major equipment and financing option in the U.S. I only work in markets where solar is genuinely beneficial. I will tell you honestly if your situation isn’t a good fit.
When Solar Makes Sense
Solar isn’t right for everyone. Here’s how I think about it:
Good candidates for solar
- High or rising electricity rates
- Dirty or unreliable local energy sources
- Good utility incentives or net metering programs
- Homes with large, unobstructed roof space
- Clients planning to stay in their home for many years
- People who want budget stability in an unpredictable world
When to wait or skip it
- Extremely low local utility rates
- Heavily shaded or complex rooflines
- Very old roofs or properties needing major updates first
Common Misconceptions
“Solar is free.” No – but it can save you money. “$0 down” means no upfront cost, not no payment. There is always a monthly payment or loan. The question is whether that payment is less than your current utility bill.
“Solar doesn’t work in cloudy areas.” False. Solar panels produce energy from daylight, not direct sun. Oregon and the Pacific Northwest are viable solar markets.
“You’ll have power during an outage.” Only if you have batteries. A standard grid-tied solar system shuts off during outages for safety reasons. Battery backup is available – but adds cost. It’s worth it for some, not all.
“Owning is always better than leasing.” The equipment is identical either way. Ownership makes sense if you want to invest upfront and keep the full tax incentives. A lease or PPA often means lower monthly payments and still protects you from rising utility rates. Both can be smart – it depends on your situation.
Solar and Real Estate
As a licensed Realtor, I’m one of very few people who can advise clients on solar’s effect on home value, what to look for when buying a home with existing solar, how leased systems affect a sale, and how to position a solar home for maximum market advantage. Most agents have no idea. I’ve spent years translating this gap.
Find Out If Solar Is Right for You
First conversation is free and there is zero obligation. I’ll tell you the truth – including if the answer is no.
(971) 303-2253 | jamie@frontier-properties.com
Frontier Properties 