Do solar panels add value to a home?

To begin with, consider a Zillow study, which notes that homes with solar installations tend to sell for about 4.1% more than homes without. Of course, this is an average. Some locations show a higher value add (5.4% for New York City), and some show lower (2.7% for Riverside, California). 1

Do solar panels increase resale value?

In fact, one study by Zillow confirmed that solar installations increase a home’s resale value by up to $5,911 for each kilowatt of solar panels installed, and another estimated an increase of 4.1% of the home’s value. Where do these figures come from, exactly?

Will a new solar system increase my home value?

Other factors influence how much your home’s value might rise, such as: Age of your solar system. If your panels or shingles are nearing the end of their productive years, your home value won’t rise as much with a system that's fairly new (less than 10-15 years old).

Are solar panels worth it?

While an investment in solar energy can pay for itself over time, it likely isn’t worth it for the increase in your home’s resale value alone. You can maximize the value of your solar panels by properly maintaining them and taking advantage of government tax credits or rebates.

Does a solar home have a resale value?

A solar home’s resale value can also decrease depending on the age and condition of its roof under the solar panels and whether the buyer will be subject to a maintenance contract or other commitment. Switch to solar with a system built for you.

Should you buy a home with solar panels?

Even if the potential boost in value outweighs the cost of the solar panels, home solar installations can actually complicate or delay the sale of a home — especially if there is a lease, ongoing maintenance contract or other long-term agreement in place.