Thinking About Moving? Here’s What You Should Know About Your Solar Panels
More homeowners are going solar than ever before—and many will eventually sell their homes. But what happens to those solar panels when it’s time to move?
Do they transfer to the new buyer?
Can you take them with you?
Do they increase the value of your home?
This guide breaks down what you need to know whether you own, lease, or finance your system—so you can make the best decision when selling a solar-equipped home.
If You Own Your Solar Panels Outright
If you purchased your system with cash or have fully paid off your solar loan, your panels are considered an asset attached to the home. This makes the sale process relatively simple.
✅ What Happens:
- The panels stay with the home.
- The buyer inherits free electricity from day one.
- No additional agreements or payments are needed.
💰 Added Home Value:
According to studies by Zillow and Berkeley Lab, homes with owned solar systems sell faster and for more money—often adding $10,000–$15,000+ to the home’s resale value depending on location and system size.
If You’re Financing Your Solar System
If you’re still making payments on a solar loan, you still technically own the panels, but there’s an active lien or loan on the system.
You Have Two Main Options:
- Pay off the loan during closing and treat the system like a fully owned asset (best for clean transfer and highest resale value).
- Transfer the loan to the new buyer (the buyer must qualify, and the lender must approve).
Many solar loans are designed to be transferrable, but buyers must agree to take on the monthly payment—just like they would with any other home improvement loan.
👥 Pro Tip:
Work with your lender early and inform your real estate agent so they can help explain the solar loan in your MLS listing.
If You’re Leasing or in a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA)
If your system is under a lease or PPA (common with $0-down options), you don’t own the panels—the solar company does—but you benefit from the power they produce.
To Sell Your Home, You’ll Need to:
- Transfer the agreement to the buyer (usually requires a credit check).
- Provide lease or PPA documentation to your realtor and buyer early.
- Ensure the buyer understands the monthly payment and savings.
Most major leasing providers like Sunrun, Sunnova, or SunPower have well-established transfer processes. Buyers often appreciate predictable utility savings and 25-year warranties that come with leased systems.
Can I Take My Solar Panels With Me When I Move?
Technically yes—but it’s rarely the best move.
Here’s Why It’s Usually a Bad Idea:
- Removing panels voids roof warranties and may damage shingles.
- You’d need to reapply for permits, interconnection, and incentives at your new home.
- You lose the added home value solar brings when included in the sale.
- Reinstallation costs can be several thousand dollars.
Unless your system is brand new and the buyer refuses to take it, it’s almost always better to leave the system with the home and include its value in the asking price.
Tips to Sell Your Solar Home Smoothly
Whether owned or leased, here are steps to make your sale go smoothly:
1. Gather Documentation
Buyers want clarity. Provide:
- System ownership info (cash, loan, or lease)
- Monthly utility savings or solar production reports
- Warranty details
- Transfer instructions (if applicable)
2. Involve the Solar Provider
If leased or financed, notify your solar company early. They’ll help with paperwork, buyer approval, and timelines.
3. Educate Your Realtor
Many realtors still don’t fully understand solar. Share basic info and explain how the system saves the new homeowner money monthly.
4. Highlight the Benefits in Your Listing
Mention solar in your listing description and home tour. It can help your home stand out and justify a higher asking price.
What About the Federal Solar Tax Credit?
If you already claimed the 30% federal tax credit, it stays with you—not the buyer.
- The tax credit is only available the year the system is installed.
- It cannot be passed to the buyer unless they install a new system themselves.
If you haven’t claimed the credit yet and plan to sell the home the same year it was installed, speak with a tax professional. You may still be eligible if you paid for the system.
Will Solar Help or Hurt My Home Sale?
In most cases, solar helps—especially when the system is owned or clearly explained to the buyer.
A few caveats:
- Buyers may hesitate if the lease or loan terms are unclear.
- Homes in areas without high electric rates may see less perceived value.
But if solar is framed correctly as a home upgrade that reduces future expenses, it almost always increases interest.
What If I Move Into a Home That Already Has Solar?
If you’re buying a home with solar, do your homework:
- Ask for system specs, warranty details, and energy savings reports.
- Understand if you’ll be taking over a lease or solar loan.
- Make sure the roof is in good shape and the system is functioning well.
At Eagle Mountain Solar, we can help you evaluate the system’s performance and ensure you’re making a sound investment.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Solar Complicate Your Move
Solar shouldn’t be a barrier when you sell—it should be a selling point.
With a little preparation, you can turn your system into a valuable feature that attracts energy-conscious buyers and adds real value to your home.
Ready to Go Solar Now—Even If You Might Move Later?
Going solar still makes sense even if you don’t plan to stay in your home forever. You’ll lock in savings, boost your home’s value, and likely recoup your investment when you sell.
At Eagle Mountain Solar, we help homeowners make smart, flexible solar decisions—whether they’re staying put or planning a future move.
👉 Get started with a free solar consultation at eaglemountainsolar.com