Do solar panels raise the value of a property in MA?

[Matt Mahony]

I am considering installing solar panels on my primary residence in Massachusetts, but I don't know how this affects the resell value of the home.  I will probably go with buying the solar panels outright, so I don't have to deal with a lease.  How will the solar panels affect the home's value?  I imagine it should raise the value, but I don't know by how much.

[Renee Tepper]

Hi Matt, I'm a real estate agent as well as a flipper, in Massachusetts.  I recently listed and sold a client's home with solar panels.  I found that all the potential buyers were unfamiliar with them and very concerned about them. Unlike you, these panels were leased and we had to transfer the lease. Monthly payments are made to the solar panel company, and to the electric company. The solar company was helpful but just created another concern during the sales process. In summary, having the solar panels did not increase the value at all and almost hindered the sale. It's unfortunate but hopefully people will eventually become more familiar with solar panels and understand the savings and the environmental benefits.