Do solar panels add value in San Diego?

[Jared Aquino]

Hello everyone, I recently purchased a townhome in San Diego and several of my neighbors have installed solar panels on their roofs. I'm curious to see if anyone here has installed solar panels and if buyers are willing to pay more for solar panels. 

Things to note:

• 1. If I decide to install solar panels, I will buy them outright (no lease & no lien)
• 2. I will confirm the type, size, weight, location, and approval with the HOA.

Thanks! 

[Michael Hadrys]

Congrats, and good decision not to get leased or lien type solar. 

About 3 years ago the San Diego Appraisal Institute Economic Symposium had an appraiser present a study on solar panels on SFR homes. Overall at that time owned solar panels did not present any increase in value, however the savings would be reflected in the electric bill. I'm not sure if that has changed but I doubt it.

If you do decide, be sure the roof is not old, otherwise replace the roof. Last thing you want is new panels installed on a roof that is near the end of its economic life.