Buying a House with Solar Panels: What You Need to Know

What You Need to Know When Buying a House with Solar Panels

If you’re in the market for a new home, you likely have a long checklist of specific requirements, features, and amenities that you’re looking for. Among the many items on this list are the location, yard space, and the number of bedrooms and bathrooms. As the world is steadily moving toward sustainable energy, there’s a new feature to keep an eye out for when buying a home: solar panels.

According to a study by the National Association of Realtors, nearly 50% of homebuyers are interested in sustainability when looking to buy a new home. When it comes to owning a home, one of the most environmentally impactful things you can do is utilize solar panels and batteries as your main power source. Solar energy also has the potential to provide many financial benefits, from dramatically lowered energy bills to tax rebates.

So, what should you consider if you’re looking to buy a house with solar panels already installed? Let’s dive into the factors that matter most.

Questions to Ask When Buying a Home with Solar Panels

Who Installed the Solar Panels?

It’s essential to know who installed the solar panels upfront. Solar panels are a long-term investment designed to last about 25 years, but they may require maintenance or servicing during that time. You might also want to upgrade the system with additional panels or a battery for maximum energy efficiency and savings.

Keep in mind that not all solar companies provide post-installation services or even remain operational over time. At Solar Discovery, we prioritize long-term relationships with our customers by offering customizable services and upgrades to help you get the most from your solar system.

Are the Panels Owned or Leased?

Solar panels on the roof don’t always belong to the homeowner. In some cases, the previous owner may have leased the panels, meaning you could inherit their monthly payments. While leased panels can still provide benefits, owning the panels outright is the ideal scenario.

If the previous owner purchased the panels, you’ll save money on your monthly utility bill immediately—without additional costs for the panels.

What Condition Are the Panels In?

Even though solar panels are built to last, regular maintenance is key to ensuring they operate efficiently. Some solar systems may also require upgrades, like batteries, monitoring, or additional panels.

At Solar Discovery, we provide comprehensive maintenance and upgrade options to keep your system running at its best for years to come.

What if I Want to Remodel or Add to the House?

If you’re planning to remodel or add an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU), be aware of Title 24 regulations. Title 24, part of the California Code of Regulations, outlines energy efficiency requirements for new constructions and renovations. Significant changes to your home may necessitate adjustments to your solar system to maintain compliance and efficiency.

What if the House Doesn’t Have a Solar System?

If your new home doesn’t already have solar panels, installing a system can offer numerous benefits. Besides reducing your carbon footprint and lowering energy bills, there are incentives like:

• Federal Investment Tax Credit: A tax credit of over 30% of your solar system's cost.
• Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP): Financial support for energy storage systems, like batteries, when switching to solar.

By registering for SGIP, you can save even more while transitioning to a solar-powered home.

Solar Solutions with Solar Discovery

At Solar Discovery, we specialize in all-in-one solar solutions, including installation, roofing, batteries, and more. Since our founding in 2016, we’ve been committed to delivering energy-efficient and cost-effective solutions with exceptional customer service.

Ready to explore solar energy for your new home? Contact us today for a free consultation and discover if an affordable solar system is the right solution for you.

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