🔴 1. The Cost Is Much Higher Than Most People Realize

Solar panels are not cheap.

• Most systems cost $25,000–$50,000+
• Even with tax credits, you’re still financing a large amount
• Many homeowners underestimate interest, maintenance, and insurance impacts

👉 Bottom line: You’re taking on long-term debt for a system that may not deliver short-term value.

🔴 2. Break-Even Takes Too Long

Solar only makes sense if you stay in the home long enough.

• Most systems take 15–25 years to truly pay for themselves
• If you sell in 2–3 years, you almost never recoup the investment
• Buyers rarely pay dollar-for-dollar extra for solar

👉 If you don’t plan to stay long-term, you’re likely losing money.

🔴 3. Solar Can Make Your Home HARDER to Sell

This surprises many sellers.

• Buyers may not want to assume a solar loan or lease
• Appraisers often don’t add full value for solar
• Some buyers will walk away entirely when they hear “solar contract”

👉 What was meant to be a benefit can turn into a deal killer.

🔴 4. Solar Leases & Financing Are a Major Red Flag

This is where problems really happen.

• Many systems are leased, not owned
• Sellers must:
  • Pay off the system
  • Transfer the lease
  • Or reduce the home price to compensate

👉 Solar leases create friction, delays, and failed contracts.

🔴 5. Roof & Maintenance Issues

Solar doesn’t live in isolation.

• Roof repairs become more expensive
• Panels may need removal and reinstallation
• Damage or aging roofs complicate insurance and inspections

👉 Buyers worry about future costs, even if the panels work fine today.

🔴 6. Utility Savings Are Often Overpromised

Sales pitches can be aggressive.

• Savings depend on usage, rates, sun exposure, and future policy changes
• Utility companies can change buy-back rules
• Not every home sees the savings promised in ads

👉 What looks great on paper doesn’t always work in real life.

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God Bless!

Brian Stephens

Realtor, eXp Realty

www.realtorsoffaith.com