By How to Explain the Value of Solar Panels to a Homebuyer
Selling your home with solar panels should be a huge advantage, but many sellers find themselves facing hesitation or confusion from potential buyers.
That’s why it helps to be prepared with a clear, confident explanation that shows the real value your solar system brings. This guide will help you communicate that value in simple, powerful ways that buyers understand.
1. Start With What Buyers Care About Most: Money
The average U.S. homeowner saves $1,000 to $2,000 per year on electricity with solar. But the real impact becomes clear when you factor in the rising cost of electricity.
Let’s break down a realistic example:
- Current electric bill: $300/month
- Annual electricity inflation: 4% (based on U.S. historical average)
- Time period: 25 years
Without solar, a homeowner could pay over $175,000 in electricity over 25 years.
With solar (assuming a 90% offset), the cost could drop to around $17,000 to $20,000 over the same period. That’s a savings of more than $100,000.
“Electricity prices have risen over 15% in just the last two years, and experts project continued increases due to grid upgrades and demand.”
— U.S. Energy Information Administration
Solar locks in lower energy costs and protects against inflation and global energy market shifts.
2. Solar Panels – Built to Last
Most people assume solar panels last 25 to 30 years, but recent data shows they can go much further.
Research by the U.S. Department of Energy’s DuraMAT program shows modern solar modules are expected to last 40 to 50 years.
Some panels experience degradation rates of less than 0.2% per year.
Panels can continue working at reduced capacity even after manufacturer warranties expire.
That means today’s buyers could benefit from solar for decades.
3. Ownership, Leases & Financing -Clarified
Owned systems: If your system is paid off, emphasize that the buyer receives all the benefits without any additional payments.
Financed or leased systems: These can still be a great value:
Make sure the buyer knows the monthly lease payment is lower than the typical electric bill.
Confirm the lease is easily transferrable.
Provide documents and contacts to help the buyer understand the setup.
Whether leased or owned, a modern system with documentation and warranties can still be a major asset.
4. Solar Adds Real Property Value
Recent studies show significant gains for homes with solar, and it’s even better today than it was just a few years ago:
A 2019 Zillow study found homes with solar panels sold for 4.1% more on average—about $9,300 extra for the median home nationwide.
A 2025 SolarReviews analysis, using updated Zillow data, reports an even larger premium: 6.9%, or roughly $25,000 more.
Overall, most studies suggest owned solar systems add between 4–7% in home value—more in sunny, energy-conscious markets, less in others.
Key Points to Share with Buyers:
Range Matters: Explain that solar appreciation typically falls between 4–7%, depending on factors like location, electricity rates, system size, and condition.
Ownership Counts: Emphasize that owned solar systems deliver stronger value gains compared to leased setups.
Local Context: If your region has high electricity rates or strong solar adoption, your premium may be at the higher end of that range.
Homes with owned solar systems typically sell for 4–7% more, with recent studies showing an average premium of around 6.9% in 2025, meaning a seller on a $400K home could see $16K–$28K in added value.
In energy-conscious markets, solar can help homes sell faster and more competitively.
“Solar can boost home value and help it sell faster, especially when energy costs are high.”
— Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory Study
Bonus Argument: No More 30% Tax Credit for Buyers
Buyers who install new solar systems today may no longer qualify for the 30% federal tax credit, or may face lower incentives depending on policy changes.
That means when they buy a home with solar already installed, they are effectively getting the system at a 30% discount compared to new buyers.
This creates immediate value and savings from day one—without waiting, applying for credits, or paying full market price.
5. Highlight the Environmental Impact (Bonus Points for Green Buyers)
Many buyers are looking for homes that are energy efficient and environmentally friendly. You can highlight:
- Annual CO2 offset by your solar system
- Equivalents in planted trees or gasoline avoided
- Readiness for future upgrades like battery backup or EV charging
6. Offer Documentation and Transparency
Build trust by providing:
- A recent utility bill showing savings
- System specs (panel model, inverter type, output)
- Monitoring tools or app access
- Installation and warranty documents
- Lease or finance agreement (if applicable)
- This makes it easy for the buyer to understand the value and feel confident.
- Address Common Buyer Concerns
Many buyers will ask:
Does solar require maintenance? Not much, just occasional cleaning.
What if the roof leaks? A professional install avoids this, and we can inspect the system.
Will my insurance cover it? Most homeowner policies already do.
Can I replace the roof later? Yes. Our team offers certified removal and reinstall services.
8. Share a Vision for the Future
Buyers today aren’t just buying a house—they’re buying into future energy costs, value, and stability.
Solar offers:
- Protection from rising utility rates
- Energy independence
- Long-lasting system with decades of benefits
- A smarter, cleaner home from day one
“By installing solar now, buyers lock in energy savings, hedge against inflation, and own a home that’s built to last—both financially and sustainably.”
Final Tip:
Include a printed or digital version of this guide with your listing, or give it to your real estate agent to share with buyers.
If the buyer wants an inspection, warranty review, or system report, Removal Reinstall Solar Panels can provide a professional assessment to make the transition smooth and secure.
