How Solar Increases Property Value: What Homebuyers Want to Know

djcdesigneracct
Apr 1
3 min read

When most people think about installing solar panels, they focus on saving money on electricity bills. But there’s another major benefit that often gets overlooked: solar increases the resale value of your home. In today’s market—especially across Pennsylvania and New York—homebuyers are more eco-conscious and cost-savvy than ever. Installing solar makes your property more attractive, competitive, and valuable.

What the Data Says About Solar and Home Value

Multiple national studies confirm the connection between solar and higher home prices:

A Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory study found homes with solar sell for an average premium of $15,000 compared to similar homes without solar.
Zillow research shows homes with solar in the U.S. sell for 4.1% more on average.
In markets with higher utility rates (like New York), the premium can be even higher.

Why Homebuyers Value Solar Homes

Lower Utility Bills

Homebuyers love the idea of moving into a property with immediate energy savings.
With rising utility costs, a home with solar offers long-term protection against rate hikes.

Energy Independence

Buyers see solar as a way to reduce dependence on unpredictable grid power.
Homes with solar + battery storage are especially attractive due to backup power during outages.

Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Living

More buyers are prioritizing green homes. Solar demonstrates a commitment to sustainability.
This is especially appealing in eco-conscious markets like New York’s Hudson Valley or Pennsylvania suburbs.

Tax & Incentive Benefits Transfer

In many cases, incentives and net metering agreements can be transferred to the new homeowner, adding even more value.

Factors That Impact the Property Value Increase

System Ownership
- Homes with owned solar systems see the biggest boost in resale value.
- Homes with leased panels may still attract buyers, but buyers often prefer systems without ongoing third-party contracts.
System Size & Age
- A newer system with plenty of life left on the panels and warranty is more appealing.
- Larger systems that cover most of a home’s electricity needs can deliver bigger savings, and therefore, higher value.
Local Energy Costs
- The higher the cost of electricity in your area, the more valuable solar becomes. New York buyers see this especially clearly.
Market Awareness
- In areas where solar is common, buyers recognize the value right away. In emerging solar markets, education may be needed.

Solar in Pennsylvania and New York Real Estate

Pennsylvania

Homes with solar are becoming more common, especially in suburban and rural areas.
Buyers appreciate SRECs (Solar Renewable Energy Credits) that continue to generate value after purchase.

New York

Strong NYSERDA incentives and high electricity costs make solar homes very desirable.
Many buyers seek homes already enrolled in net metering or Value Stack programs for immediate bill credits.

Selling a Solar Home: Tips for Success

Highlight Energy Savings – Share utility bill comparisons before and after installation.
Advertise Warranties – Solar panels often come with 25+ year warranties, reassuring buyers.
Work With an Experienced Agent – Partner with a realtor who understands how to market solar benefits effectively.
Offer Documentation – Provide system details, permits, incentive paperwork, and monitoring app access.

Final Thoughts

Solar isn’t just an energy upgrade—it’s a home value booster. In both Pennsylvania and New York, buyers are willing to pay more for homes with clean energy savings built in. For homeowners considering solar, the payoff isn’t just lower utility bills—it’s a higher resale price when it’s time to move on.

Call to Action

At Solar Opportunities LLC, we design and install solar systems that don’t just power your home—they add long-term value. Whether you’re planning to stay in your home for decades or sell in a few years, solar is an investment that pays off.