Pros and Cons of Buying a House with Solar Panels
As solar energy systems become more common, many homebuyers are encountering properties with rooftop panels already installed. But buying a house with solar panels comes with both advantages and challenges. This guide offers a balanced, comprehensive look at the pros and cons of buying a house with solar panels, using real-world data, expert knowledge, and clear questions you should ask before making a decision.
✅ Advantages of Buying a House with Solar Panels
💸 1. Long-Term Energy Savings
Solar panels can significantly reduce electric bills. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, homeowners save between $10,000 and $30,000 over a system’s life.
- Example electric bill: $250/month
- With solar (90% offset): ~$20,000 over 25 years
- Without solar: ~$175,000 over 25 years with inflation
🔒 2. Fixed Electricity Costs
Solar systems, especially when owned, protect you from rising utility rates and provide long-term cost predictability.
⚙️ 3. No Installation Hassles
Buying a home with panels already installed means no permitting delays, equipment choices, or contractor searches.
🏷️ 4. Potential for Increased Home Value
- Zillow (2019): +4.1% sale price premium
- SolarReviews (2025): +6.9% average boost
- Berkeley Lab: Stronger value for owned systems
🔋 5. Long Lifespan and High Efficiency
Modern panels last 25–40+ years with low degradation (~0.2%/year). The inverter may need replacement every 10–15 years, but panels themselves continue working even beyond warranty periods.
🌱 6. Environmental Benefits
- 3–4 tons of CO₂ offset per year
- Equivalent to planting 100+ trees annually
- Supports sustainable living and energy independence
💰 7. Previous Tax Incentives Already Applied
Buyers may benefit from a system that already received the federal 30% tax credit—without paying installation or upfront costs themselves.
⚠️ Disadvantages of Buying a House with Solar Panels
🤝 1. Leased vs. Owned Systems
Leased systems may require buyers to assume a lease contract, qualify for the transfer, or negotiate a buyout. Owned systems are simpler and offer full benefits.
🧾 2. Incomplete Documentation or Warranties
Lack of panel specs, inverter info, warranties, or maintenance logs can make it difficult to verify performance or value. Ask for these up front.
🏚️ 3. Roof Age and Future Costs
If the roof is near its end of life, removing and reinstalling panels later could cost $1,500 to $6,000 or more depending on roof type and system size.
📉 4. Reduced Performance in Older Systems
Panels naturally degrade, and systems over 10 years old may produce less energy. Ask for monitoring access and output history to confirm current performance.
📑 5. Permitting and Insurance Gaps
Verify that the system is legally permitted, utility-approved, and covered by the current homeowner’s insurance. If not, upgrades or re-permitting may be needed.
⚡ 6. Limited Incentives for Expansion or Battery Add-ons
If you plan to add more panels or battery storage later, you may not qualify for full federal or local incentives if they were already used by the previous owner.
🔍 Final Thoughts: Making an Informed Decision
Buying a house with solar panels can offer long-term savings, stable energy costs, environmental benefits, and added home value. But it also requires due diligence. Understanding the age, ownership, performance, and roof condition is essential before moving forward.
✅ Questions to Ask the Seller:
- Is the system owned, leased, or financed?
- How old is the system and who installed it?
- Can I see recent utility bills or monitoring data?
- What’s the age and condition of the roof under the panels?
- Are warranties still valid and transferable?
To learn more about solar financing and ownership, see this external guide from the U.S. Department of Energy.
If you need a professional inspection, removal, or reinstallation quote, click here to contact our certified team.
