Are Solar Panels a Selling Point for Buyers or a Hassle for Home Sellers?

Solar panels are often marketed as a valuable home upgrade, promising lower energy bills and increased property value. While some data suggests homes with panels sell for slightly more than comparable homes without them, reality is a bit more complicated.

Like a swimming pool, solar panels can be a selling point for some buyers but a dealbreaker for others. While some see energy savings as a long-term benefit, others view solar as an aesthetic issue, an unnecessary complication, or an unwanted lease to take over.

Do Solar Panels Add Value to a Home?

Past studies have suggested homes with solar panels sell for more on average than comparable homes without them. In markets where energy costs are high and homeowners put a premium on energy efficiency, solar panels may be particularly appealing.

But these numbers don’t tell the full story. While some buyers see solar as an upgrade, others see it as a liability. The added value only applies if the buyer actually wants solar panels in the first place.

When Solar Panels Make Selling a Home Harder

• Not Every Buyer Wants Solar – While energy-conscious buyers might appreciate the long-term savings, others don’t want the responsibility of maintaining a system they didn’t install. Buyers who aren’t familiar with solar may hesitate if they don’t understand how it works or worry about potential repair costs.
• Leased Panels Can Be a Major Hurdle – If the panels are leased rather than owned, the new buyer typically has to assume the lease, which often means agreeing to ongoing monthly payments. Some buyers won’t want this added financial obligation, and lenders may have stricter loan requirements for homes with leased solar systems.
• Aesthetic Concerns – Some buyers don’t like how solar panels look, especially if they’re older, discolored, or installed in a way that affects curb appeal.
• Complicates the Selling Process – Sellers of a home with solar may need to put in extra effort to educate and convince buyers that it's a benefit rather than a drawback. Some buyers may be unfamiliar with how solar panels affect homeownership, which can lead to longer negotiations or lost deals.

If you’re interested in installing solar panels but concerned about how they might affect your home sale in the future, you’ll likely be better off buying them outright rather than signing a long-term lease agreement.

How to Sell a Home With Solar Panels More Easily

If you’re selling a home with solar panels, here’s how to avoid potential roadblocks and make the system as attractive as possible:

• Clarify Ownership Early – If the panels are owned outright, emphasize this in the listing. This is more likely to make the solar panels an attractive feature for home shoppers rather than a complication or financial burden. If they’re leased, be prepared with details on the lease terms, transfer process, and costs.
• Highlight the Financial Benefits – Have documentation ready to show the energy savings and how much the system reduces electricity bills. Buyers may be more receptive if they see clear financial benefits.
• Prepare for Buyer Questions – Expect buyers (and their agents) to ask about warranties, maintenance history, and system lifespan. Providing this information upfront can prevent delays.
• Work with a Realtor Who Understands Solar – Real estate companies experienced in selling homes with solar can help position it as a benefit rather than a complication.

Our Real Estate Agents Have Extensive Experience Selling Homes With and Without Solar Panels

Solar panels can be a selling point or a selling challenge, depending on the market and buyer preferences. While studies suggest solar panels may increase home value, that only applies if buyers see them as an asset—not a burden.

How the home is marketed plays a key role in buyer perception, which is why having an experienced real estate agent representing you is key. 72SOLD is dedicated to helping all types of sellers get competitive offers quickly. Get our price on your home today by filling out the form on our website.