Several years ago, I sold a La Crescenta home with a Sunny Boy Solar System. The monthly electric bill was only about $20.00 for a 2,000 square foot home. This was certainly a bonus for the buyer. But for those considering a conversion, you should question how going solar will impact your resale value.
As traditional energy supplies are expensive and dwindling, many homeowners are considering energy alternatives. While going solar may not be right for everyone, it’s clean, sustainable, and a readily available resource which provides significant savings. As with most home improvements there are both advantages and disadvantages to going solar.
Going solar reduces your carbon footprint. A typical residential solar panel system will eliminate 3-4 tons of carbon emissions each year—roughly the equivalent of planting over 100 trees every year.
Technology is rapidly changing. Look at the evolution of the mobile phone, my first phone was cumbersome and today my i-phone fits in my pocket. Flat screen TV’s and computer monitors are the norm. I have looked into solar, and have to admit I don’t want the panels too visible, for me that was the deal breaker. I am optimistic that it won’t be too long before the panels are much smaller.
If you are planning on selling in the next few years, I don’t recommend going solar. If you purchase the panels, you will not recoup your cash outlay and if you lease a new buyer will not want to assume the payments.
