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DIY solar panels: pros, cons and installation guide. Add solar to house

DIY solar panels: pros, cons and installation guide. Add solar to house

    DIY solar panels: pros, cons and installation guide

    To save money, it’s no surprise that many homeowners are considering “do it yourself”, or DIY, solar. You can install solar panels yourself, but there are some advantages and disadvantages to doing it alone. In this article, we’ll break down the top pros and cons that you need to know about do-it-yourself solar panel systems before making a decision.

    Can you install solar panels yourself?

    A solar panel system is complicated, which is why so many companies across the U.S. specialize in providing professional solar installation services. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t build your own solar panel system – you can install your own panels, a DIY solar panel setup can be a viable option for some solar shoppers wanting to tap into renewable energy.

    According to data from the EnergySage Marketplace, the average cost of going solar for homeowners (after accounting for the federal tax credit) is about 20,650 in 2023. Of that amount, design and installation labor costs contribute about 10% of the total bill; this 10% is what a DIY solar installation will save you since you’ll still have to buy the equipment and components yourself. Regardless, it’s still tempting to look into building your own solar panel installation to save money and be in full control of your home renewable energy project.

    Your solar energy system should continue to generate electricity for 25 to 35 years, so you must consider both the upfront costs and the relative financial benefits for all of your solar options. If you buy a home solar kit like the ones for sale at Costco or Home Depot, it may be less expensive per watt, but you aren’t getting the same quality equipment that solar installers can offer you. For the most part, solar installers buy from equipment distributors that don’t sell to the general public – and they’re often getting lower because they’re able to buy in bulk and have access to the best solar panel brands. Going for the more expensive option now may end up saving you money in the long run because you’ll likely have a system built to last a few decades, offsetting your monthly electric bills.

    Pros and cons of DIY solar panels and solar panel kits

    DIY panels can be a great option for going off the grid and some small home applications. For powering your entire home, however, it may be in your best interest to go with a professional installer.

    DIY solar pros and cons

    Pros of DIY solar panelsCons of DIY solar panels
    Provides more energy independence for homeowners by not being tied to the electricity grid. Require much more maintenance that would otherwise be covered by an installer warranty.
    Effective in powering smaller items like RVs, boats and other appliances For an entire home, installation may be difficult for an individual without the knowledge and experience of a professional installer.
    Allows homeowners to save roughly 10% on the overall cost of installation that would otherwise go towards labor. DIY installation may be illegal where you live according to local zoning laws.

    Most home DIY all-in-one solar panel solar kits (including items like solar batteries, and inverters) are designed for off-grid use, which means you can’t use them and remain connected to your utility. If you’re an average homeowner, going off-grid is probably not in your best interest – being able to access utility-generated electricity is important if your solar array doesn’t produce enough electricity to meet your needs at all times of the day throughout the year.

    However, home solar kits can be a good solution if you’re not trying to power your entire home. RVs, boats, and the increasingly popular tiny houses are all opportunities to explore do-it-yourself solar because they are already off-grid and mobile. Storage kits are also a good option for backup to help in the case of a blackout and can contain battery banks and battery systems.

    If you want to install a DIY solar project, compare several options beforehand. Grape Solar is a major manufacturer (among others) and offers a few different DIY products and components for both grid-tied and off-grid systems, which you can find more information on below.

    DIY solar options

    ProductSystem size (watts)System costDollars per wattRetailer link
    Grape Solar 400 watt PV solar panel kit 400 588 1.47 Home Depot
    Grape Solar 600 watt PV solar panel kit 600 857 1.42 Home Depot
    Renogy solar 12-volt/24-volt premium kit 800 1,350 1.69 Renogy
    ECO-WORTHY off-grid solar panel kit 800 1,090 1.36 Amazon

    When you decide on DIY solar panels, remember that you get what you pay for. A home solar kit may be less expensive, but solar installers offer tremendous value for a relatively little additional cost (remember that 10% figure?). When it comes to installing an expensive electrical system on your property, finding someone who knows what they’re doing can save you both time and money in the long run.

    Some of the best solar installers have been in the business for decades – an experience that no amount of online research or DIY guides can replicate. Every state requires that installers are licensed and qualified to install solar, and independent certifications like the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) Solar PV Installation Professional Certification ensure that the company you choose to work with has an intimate understanding of the process. Because of this, they can provide experienced insight and help you assess what equipment is the best fit for your property and whether a battery system is right for you.

    Your solar installer will also help you complete and file the permits and applications that you need to submit to get your solar power system up and running. This is particularly important because your utility won’t let you connect your system to the grid without a sign-off from a certified electrician.

    Because of your solar installer’s experience, they’ll also have a strong understanding of the financial incentives for solar available in your area, and might even be able to help you save more money by finding any rebates and tax incentives that you may have missed. Lastly, it is important to note that many equipment manufacturers will only honor their warranties if a qualified installer installed their equipment. Many installers will also offer an additional warranty to back up their work, too.

    The 6-step guide to DIY solar panels: how to install solar panels

    The DIY solar panel installation process can be simplified into six major steps:

    Purchase your solar equipment and components (solar panels, batteries, inverters, racking, etc.)

    Equipment and components including panels can be purchased with help from the EnergySage Buyer’s Guide. You can compare panel, battery, and inverter models based on specs like efficiency, warranties, and more.

    solar, panels, pros, cons, installation

    Install the racking or mounts for the panels on a roof or the ground

    Once you have the necessary equipment, designs, and permits in order, it is time to install your equipment. For roof mount systems, this begins with installing your racking and mounting equipment. To start, mark where your system will be installed, drill where lag bolts will be put in place, caulk the holes, put in lag bolts, and lock rails onto them. For ground mount systems, the steps are similar, only the panels will be installed at the ground level on some type of racking system.

    Install your equipment

    The first items to install are the solar inverters, which convert the electricity generated by your solar panels into usable electricity. After these are installed using provided bolts, you will need to connect a grounding wire. This is a piece of copper wire across the rails that serves as a safety precaution against lightning strikes and other faults. After this, you can attach your solar panels to your racking equipment.

    Connect to your main electrical board

    After you have fully installed your panel and system, be sure to schedule an inspection with the local construction authority closest to you. This will ensure that your system complies with local ordinances. Once you pass this inspection, you can apply to connect to the grid. The local utility company will give you a meter to record your power exports.

    Get in touch with your utility company and request permission to turn on (PTO) if necessary in your area

    From there, turn on your system after you have the proper approval and check how the system is functioning with a solar monitoring app.

    Maintenance of DIY solar panel systems

    One of the benefits of working with a certified solar installer is the warranty that comes with their service. Solar panel manufacturers provide a range of warranties that guarantee you will have support and coverage in the unlikely event of an issue caused by unusual circumstances, such as large hail or falling tree branches. Power output warranties guarantee that panel performance won’t fall below a specified level over the term of the warranty (usually 25 years). For instance, a manufacturer might provide a warranty to guarantee that peak power output won’t fall below 85% for 25 years.

    Frequently asked questions about DIY solar panels

    If you’re considering a DIY solar panel kit, but still have concerns about the best options, process, and general cost, check out a few of the most common questions we encounter when talking to solar shoppers:

    DIY solar panels may be tempting to install, but their long-term worth may be up for debate due to quality alone. Typically, a solar panel system should continue to generate electricity for 25 to 35 years, so it’s important to invest in quality equipment and a reputable installer. If you purchase a home solar panel kit from a retailer, you may be paying less per watt, but you’re not going to get the same efficiency or quality that professional installers usually offer with their products.

    You’ll also likely forgo any warranties that come with your solar panel system, as warranties often only apply when the system is installed by a certified installer. It’s also important to mention that if you still need to rely on some utility power and remain connected to the grid, DIY solar panels are typically not worth it. They are best used for small off-grid applications, like RVs, where a solar generator or solar battery bank can provide you power when you otherwise may not have access.

    As a DIYer, you don’t need to be an electrician to install solar panels. It’s certainly not illegal to go the DIY route if you choose to. However, when it comes to installing a costly electrical system on your property, we recommend relying on professionals with technical know-how —their experience is invaluable and it can make a huge difference in the overall quality and performance of your system. Plus, solar installers will help you fill out permits and file important paperwork that you might not otherwise know is required.

    You can find reliable DIY solar panels at retailers like Home Depot or from manufacturers like Grape Solar, for between 6,000 to 11,000, depending on your system size needs. For lower cost options, some manufacturers sell DIY solar panels on Amazon for anywhere between 1,600 to 2,500. You may be looking at additional costs if you want to install a solar battery and charge controller system as part of your DIY project.

    Should you install solar yourself or hire an installer?

    If you’re wavering between a DIY solar system and hiring a solar installer, getting a ballpark estimate for an installation may help you in your decision process. With our Solar Calculator, you can see upfront cost and long-term savings estimates based on your location and roof type to determine if a solar installation is the best choice for you. If you’re looking to get quotes from local contractors today, be sure to check out the quote comparison platform in the EnergySage Marketplace.

    reading on EnergySage

    Looking to go solar? Here’s everything you need to know in… How to install solar panels Solar shingles: what you need to know in 2023 Best solar panels in 2023: Top products compared Are solar panels worth it in 2023?

    What homeowners should know before they install solar panels

    Homes without solar energy sell for approximately 4% lower on average than homes with solar energy, according to Zillow. But experienced homeowners know that adding value to your home isn’t as straightforward as you think. Whether or not a home renovation is a Smart move depends on a variety of factors. The same is true if you want to add solar power.

    While it is true that solar panels save homeowners money in the long-run, not all homeowners see solar as an undeniable advantage to a new home. Many times, home sellers must take the time to explain the true value of a solar powered system prior to making the home sale.

    Without a proper understanding of how solar panels work, a seller may end up sinking a pretty penny into a home that won’t reflect the true value it provides. That’s why it’s important to adequately explain why and how the buyer would benefit from a solar array system on their new home.

    How much do solar panels increase the value of a home?

    Installing solar panels onto your home is a sizable home renovation. Any responsible homeowner would want to know how much of a return on investment they would receive from a solar panel installation.

    Solar paneled homes also tend to sell at a faster rate than those without solar panels. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) discovered that homes with solar panels sell 20% faster than similar-sized houses that depend on an energy grid.

    NREL research also suggests that solar panels translate into overall better value for your home. The Lab found that every dollar that a solar system saved on energy costs increased home value by 20. This means that an energy system that saves the average homeowner 400 per year, would add a value of 8,000 to your home.

    It’s important to note that the added value to a solar-powered home is not as cut-and-dried as most homeowners might hope. This is because buyers have differing opinions on whether solar energy is indeed a valuable addition to the home, or if it’s just an additional cost. The final sale price of a solar-paneled home depends on a variety of factors explored in the following section.

    What factors influence the value of solar panels?

    Although solar panels are becoming much more popular among homeowners, the benefits of solar technology are still being explored. Whether or not a solar panel installation will increase your home value will depend on:

    • what region of the country your home is located
    • local price of electricity
    • state incentives and rebates
    • frequency of power outages in your area
    • local understanding of solar technology benefits

    Taking all this into consideration, it’s important to do your research before moving forward with long-term solar installations. This is especially true for sellers looking to install solar panels with the primary goal of increasing property value.

    What do buyers look for in solar paneled homes?

    CNBC recently reported that 80% of buyers look for energy-efficient upgrades when house hunting. So solar panels are generally well-received among buyers.

    A solar panel system increases overall energy savings throughout the home, working together with other efficiency upgrades the home may have already undergone. This can lead to:

    • Enhanced home insulation and reduced heating/cooling costs
    • Increased LED lighting efficiency
    • Longer life expectancy of ENERGY STAR-certified appliances

    In today’s market, there’s a growing number of new homebuyers who are both budget and environmentally-conscious. This consumer behavior works in the favor of home sellers with solar paneled homes.

    Substantial energy savings

    When purchasing a home with solar panels, a buyer’s main concern will be the energy bill. The seller has a better chance of selling the property at a higher price point if they can prove the buyer will benefit from a considerable amount of energy savings through the home’s solar powered system.

    Reviewing your monthly energy bills with an interested buyer is helpful. This allows the buyer to see how exactly they’d be able to save money on energy costs. You may also want to transfer over the ownership of solar incentives to the new owner. This translates to higher energy savings on their end.

    Owned, not leased

    Another aspect of solar paneled systems that informed buyers will definitely ask you about is whether your solar panels are owned or leased. The value of owned solar panels is easier to understand, whereas the value of leased solar panels is a bit more complex to assess.

    Buyers are more likely to pay a premium on a solar panel system that belongs to the current homeowner, as opposed to one that still needs to be paid off. This is because it’s a bit harder to evaluate the value of a home with an amenity that is still under contract and varies in desirability depending on location.

    Reputable Contractor

    Last, but not least, you also want to consider the buyer’s need to service the home’s solar panels with a reputable solar company. The contractor responsible for the solar panel installation is most likely the same company responsible for its maintenance and warranty.

    That being said, a buyer will be curious to know what the warranty covers, how long it lasts, and how often system maintenance is conducted. When installing a new set of solar panels, it’s important to choose a trustworthy solar contractor.

    Are there any tax credits for having solar panels?

    The federal solar tax credit, also known as ITC, is one of the most effective federal incentives for increasing the popularity of solar energy in the US. It offsets the initial cost of installing solar panels by allowing homeowners to claim 30% of the total cost of their solar project on their federal taxes.

    solar, panels, pros, cons, installation

    Homeowners with solar-panels can either deduct the tax credit directly from their annual tax bill, or deduct the amount from their taxable income.

    In December of 2020, the tax credit was reduced to 26%. In 2023, this percentage will go down to 22% for newly installed systems.

    Keep these numbers in mind when planning and prioritizing upcoming home renovations.

    Wrapping Up

    Determining how much solar panels add to property value isn’t a simple formula. However, it’s worth taking the time to calculate how much more you could get for your home if you decide to install a solar energy system.

    Electricity bills are a major concern for homebuyers—especially first-time homeowners who are transitioning from paying utility bills at an apartment complex, to paying monthly for gas and electricity at a property of their own.

    Do solar panels hurt the resale value of your home?

    Typically, no. By investing in solar, you’re making your home more energy-efficient, helping future homeowners save money on energy expenses. However, not everyone fully understands or even agrees with the benefits of solar paneled homes.

    As a result, the market value of a home with solar panels is not yet defined. Many homeowners consider solar panels an asset to their property, however, a few caveats apply. Solar panels that are leased and not handled by a qualified listing agent may be considered less desirable among buyers.

    Is it harder to sell a home with solar panels?

    Yes, and no. There are a few things to consider when installing solar panels into your home. First, you want to make sure your solar panels are owned and not leased. Leased solar panels lock the new homeowner into the previous homeowner’s contract. Owned solar panels are much easier to transfer.

    Second, you want to hire a qualified listing agent to handle the sale of the home. This ensures that your home’s value is accurately determined and that the cost-benefit of a solar paneled system is accounted for. Qualified agents will have taken the course, “Selling the Sun: Establishing Value for Solar Homes,” through the National Association of Realtors.

    Do solar panels void a roof’s warranty?

    Installing solar arrays onto your home will require some drilling into the roof deck to attach bolts that will secure the solar panels. This could potentially void your roofing warranty if your roof has asphalt shingles or tiles. It’d be Smart to check in with your roofing company before moving forward with a solar panel installation.

    How much do solar panels cost?

    According to the NREL, installing a 2-kilowatt solar panel system into the average-sized home will run you about 8-10 per square foot. This amounts to 16,000 to 20,000 in total costs before state and federal rebates are factored in.

    It’s important to keep in mind, however, that the cost of your solar system will vary depending on the size of your home, the kind of system you install, and where your home is located.

    Although federal rebates apply to homes all throughout the country, state rebates differ and will impact the final price of your solar panel installation. It’s also worth noting that as solar panels are becoming more commonplace, are dropping and making installation more affordable and accessible.

    How are property taxes affected by solar panels?

    As of now, property taxes are not affected by solar panel installations. Although the perceived value of your home among buyers may go up as a result of a solar panel installation, your home’s assessed value does not go up. States and municipalities that have a solar energy property tax exemption make sure to incentivize and not dissuade property owners from installing a solar paneled system into their homes.

    About the author: Vivian Tejada is a freelance writer and small business strategist based out of Providence, RI. She specializes in writing SEO blogs, property descriptions and website content for real estate companies. She’s also an avid traveler, location-independent and enjoys trying out new restaurants.

    Do Solar Panels Increase Your Home’s Value?

    Samantha covers all topics home-related including home improvement and repair. She previously edited home repair and design content at The Spruce and HomeAdvisor. She also has hosted videos on DIY home tips and solutions and launched multiple home improvement review boards staffed with licensed pros.

    We earn a commission from partner links on Forbes Home. Commissions do not affect our editors’ opinions or evaluations.

    Table of Contents

    Solar panels are a fantastic source of renewable energy, as well as a great way to save a chunk of change on your monthly electrical bills. Upfront, however, they are an investment, and if you’re thinking about purchasing a solar panel, you may be wondering if they’re worth the thousands—if not tens of thousands—of dollars they often cost.

    Solar panels might increase your home’s value in the long run, though. Here’s how.

    THIS IS AN ADVERTISEMENT AND NOT EDITORIAL CONTENT. Please note that we do receive compensation for any products you buy or sign up to via this advertisement, and that compensation impacts the ranking and placement of any offers listed herein. We do not present information about every offer available. The information and savings numbers depicted above are for demonstration purposes only, and your results may vary.

    Power Your Home With Solar

    Find a network of trusted installers for your solar system, solar panels and electricity needs. Find a solar panel installer today!

    Do Solar Panels Increase Home Value?

    In most cases, yes. If a home has solar panels, it means its owners will be saving money in the long run, increasing the home’s appeal and value.

    How Does Solar Increase Home Value?

    According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, every dollar that a solar panel saves you on your electrical bills increases the value of your home by 20. And according to Zillow, homes with solar panels sell for four percent higher than those without them.

    Currently, the demand for solar panels is higher than it ever has been, with home-buyers becoming increasingly environmentally conscious while wanting to save money. It is this demand that often increases the value of homes featuring solar panels. Whether and by how much your home’s value will increase, though, will depend on where you live and the quality of your solar panel.

    Can Adding Solar Ever Decrease Home Value?

    No, but it could have no effect, depending on where you live.

    Factors Influencing Solar’s Added Value

    Solar panels are increasingly seen as a valuable addition to any home. There are many reasons why solar panels can be an excellent financial investment, including the fact that they can help you save money while increasing your property’s value in the long run.

    Location

    It is no secret that the location of your home can significantly impact your property’s value. Therefore, the value of homes with solar panels certainly increases depending on their location – especially in areas with abundant sunlight and high electricity rates. Plus, if your home is in a region or neighborhood that emphasizes environmental sustainability, homes with solar panels can enhance a home’s perceived value. Not to mention, depending on your location, government incentives and supportive policies also play crucial roles in increasing the desirability of solar-equipped homes.

    The states where solar panels are most in demand are California, Colorado, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New Mexico and Oregon. The cities where solar panels are most in demand are Los Angeles, San Diego, Honolulu, Phoenix, San Jose, San Antonio and New York. If you live in one of these areas, there is a good chance that solar panels will increase your home’s value.

    Solar Panel Ownership

    When purchased outright, solar panels can be easily transferred from the home’s seller to the buyer. However, if you’re leasing your solar panels, you’ll need to work with the solar company to establish who will take ownership of the panels. Typically, the buyer can take over the solar system by buying the lease out or transferring it. However, when selling or buying a home, it’s essential to keep track of who has ownership rights over them to avoid confusion and potential legal issues later on.

    Solar System Condition

    While they may not be top of mind when you think about the value of a house, solar panels can significantly impact property value. Therefore, ensuring they are in a well-working condition is essential. The solar system’s condition is important since it directly affects its efficiency, functionality and lifespan.

    Well-maintained and properly functioning solar panels are more likely to attract potential buyers and contribute positively to the property’s overall worth. Regular maintenance, including cleaning and inspection, helps to ensure the panel’s performance and longevity. Damaged or outdated panels can decrease efficiency, reducing energy production and increasing potential repair costs. Therefore, keeping solar panels in good condition maximizes their energy-generating potential, ultimately increasing the property’s value.

    Do Bigger Installations Increase Home Value?

    There’s no proven correlation between the size of a solar panel and its increase of a property’s value. wattage won’t result in more money, so when choosing a solar panel or solar system for your home, just choose one that will generate the right amount of energy for your household.

    Best Solar Companies By States And Cities

    solar, panels, pros, cons, installation

    Does Solar Increase Home Value?

    There are many ways to boost the value of your home. In a market like Colorado, installing solar panels is one of the best things you can do to increase what a prospective buyer is willing to pay.

    Realtors will tell you that there is a difference between adding value to your home and adding expense. Costly upgrades such as a swimming pool or extensive landscaping may give your home a “wow” factor, but the impact when you list the house is likely to be negligible.

    Why do these nice features that homeowners sink so much money into have such a poor return on investment? Because subsequent owners will have to pay for the upkeep of these additions even as they enjoy the benefits.

    Solar panels are very different. After the initial investment, a home energy system saves you money. When new owners buy the house, they will also benefit from the savings.

    There are many reasons to invest in solar power for your home. Contact REenergizeCO in Denver or Fort Collins to discuss the benefits of going solar in Colorado.

    How Do Solar Panels Increase Home Value?

    The energy savings provided by solar panels translate into better value for your home. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) found that every dollar saved on energy through solar increases home value by 20.

    That’s a return on investment of 20 to 1. When you sell your house, these better savings equal bigger profits.

    solar, panels, pros, cons, installation

    According to Zillow, homes with solar panels sell for approximately 4 percent higher on average than homes without solar energy. That means an added value of about 9,200.

    Key reasons why homeowners benefit from solar when trying to sell the house include:

    Meeting Demand

    CNBC reports that 80 percent of buyers look for solar panels and other energy efficiency upgrades when they hunt for houses. In addition to a greater emphasis on green living, these improvements address two major financial priorities for home buyers:

    The majority of new home buyers are both budget-conscious and care about the environment. However, even the most environmentally disinterested buyer will be attracted by the energy savings and ability to control what they pay for power that solar panels provide.

    Of course, the precise value solar panels add to your home sale price depends on the local market. This can vary by city, with solar home values in some areas exceeding the average for the state as a whole.

    Tapping Local Trends

    Fortunately, solar is in demand in the Denver metro area. In its nationwide survey of cities adopting solar power, Environment Colorado Research Policy Center found that Denver ranks ninth in the country for installed solar panel systems.

    Given the extremely competitive housing market in Denver and other parts of Colorado, it pays to stand out with energy-efficient upgrades. Some buyers in the Front Range simply won’t consider a home that doesn’t already have solar panels. Therefore, installing a solar energy system helps you maintain a competitive edge.

    Saving Time and Money

    Another reason to invest in solar before you put it on the market: Houses with solar panels tend to sell faster than those without solar panels. Research by NREL has found that homes with solar panels sell 20 percent faster than equivalent houses that are dependent on the grid.

    The less time your home is on the market, the more money you can save on storage, transportation costs, and having to pay two mortgages at the same time. You also reduce the likelihood that you will have to delist your house or settle for below the asking price.

    Contributory Value of Solar Panels

    A solar panel system also has the benefit of augmenting the energy savings of any other efficiency upgrades you have made. This means:

    • What you pay for heating and cooling goes further when upgraded home insulation keeps hot and cold air inside the house where it belongs
    • The efficiency of LED lighting is enhanced when solar panels catch the rays to light your home
    • ENERGY STAR-certified appliances are even more efficient when they are powered by renewable solar

    The cumulative benefits of solar panels combined with other solutions cannot be overstated. Not only will these and other upgrades cut your monthly energy bill, but they will be an undeniable draw when you decide to put your house on the market.

    How to Get Home Value from Solar

    Although solar panels start saving you money right away, additional investments can help you maximize the value of your home energy system. Installing a solar battery, for example, can help you further reduce your dependence on the power grid (sometimes entirely). When you sell your home, a solar panel system with a storage battery will provide additional value to a buyer who prioritizes energy savings and independence.

    Read : Managing Home Energy with a Solar Battery

    Electric vehicles are another growing trend among those looking to save money and reduce their carbon footprint. Homeowners are getting the most from their solar panels and electric vehicles with Smart EV charging stations that take energy generated from solar to power their cars. For new home buyers with electric vehicles, a Smart charging station that runs on solar is a major selling point.

    Pro Tip for Selling and Listing Your Home

    If you invest in solar, the value of your home should increase. Although solar panels are an asset for the vast majority of homeowners when they list the house, a few caveats apply.

    First, the solar panels need to be owned, not leased. Buyers are enthusiastic about solar, but they don’t want to be locked in to the previous homeowner’s contract.

    Second, you need to hire a qualified listing agent to handle the sale. Qualified agents will have taken the National Association of Realtors course Selling the Sun: Establishing Value for Solar Homes. This and other programs enable real estate agents to accurately determine the value of a home with a solar energy system and market it effectively to prospective buyers.

    Your agent or realtor can work with the buyer to ensure they hire an appraiser who knows solar as well. Tools such as PV Value® are used by agents and appraisers alike to calculate the line item addition to the home’s value that solar panels and other upgrades provide.

    Without specialized knowledge, tools, and training, the sale of your home will be in the hands of inexperienced agents and standard bank appraisers who don’t understand the full value that solar adds to a house. You may be forced to sell your home for less than market value if you don’t have the right partners.

    Learn How Solar Panels Can Increase Your Home Value

    REenergizeCO is passionate about helping homeowners save money on energy, take control of their power usage, and reduce their environmental impact. We have completed hundreds of solar installations in Denver, Fort Collins, and throughout the Front Range, and we can also help you maximize the value of energy-efficient upgrades to your home.

    The process begins with a comprehensive home energy audit. Our team will perform specialized tests to determine where you lose energy (and, therefore, money) and make individualized recommendations for installing solar and other options for improving efficiency.

    REenergizeCO is recognized as an approved solar contractor by Xcel Energy and multiple county and municipal utilities. We respect your home, and our team can help you make Smart energy improvements whether you intend to sell the house or live in it for years or decades to come.

    Contact a solar team member at REenergizeCO today for more information on solar panel installation for your home. You can also reach us by phone in Denver at (303) 227-1000 or in Fort Collins at (970) 323-3191.

    We are here to answer any questions homeowners may have about home insulation, energy audits, and solar power.

    Originally published on August 18th, 2022

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