Solar panels and home property value

[Roland Brown]

I'm wondering what effect if any buying solar panels would have on the home? Let me know if you have had any experience with this.

[Cameron Lange]

Just as background for what's about to come, I have worked in the solar industry for the past ~3 years in sales/design/engineering.

The research shows that solar add's roughly $4 / DC watt.  So a 3.6 KW system will add roughly $14,400 to the home's value. Source: http://www.nytimes.com/2015/02/22/realestate/solar...

In practice, it's hit or miss and depends HEAVILY on what market you operate in.  Here in San Diego, where we pay some of the highest prices in the country for power, solar panels are very desirable for new owners.  I can't speak for other markets.

Also, it should be noted that the above figure of $4 / DC watt applies only to owner owned systems. In other words, this does not include leases, PPA's, or other third party owned forms of financing.  I've had several customers get hit with nasty lease buyout charges when the buyer decided they don't want to assume the contract.  No matter what, if you intend to sell the home you should be buying the system outright.

@Roland Brown I see you are in Texas.  From what I know Texas has one of the more complicated setups in the country.  Meaning how exactly you are credited for the solar you produce will depend on the local utilities net metering policies.  Also, Texans tend not to pay too much for solar to being with.  Also note that if the home is not your primary residence, you may not be able to claim the solar investment tax credit on your installation (though you may be able to claim accelerated depreciation).  Let me know if you have further questions on this.