What Happens to Your Solar Panels When You Sell Your Home in Arizona?

Are you considering solar energy for your home in Phoenix? Now is the perfect time to harness the power of the sun and take advantage of significant savings through federal and state tax credits. Our team at Phoenix Valley Solar can help you navigate these incentives and maximize your savings. You can also use our Arizona Solar Calculator to get an estimate of your potential benefits.

If you’ve invested in a solar energy system for your home in Phoenix, you’re already enjoying the monthly savings, energy independence, and long-term value that come with it.

But what happens when it’s time to sell your house?

Whether you're upsizing, downsizing, or relocating out of state, one common question we hear from homeowners is: "Do solar panels make selling a home easier or harder?"

The good news? In Arizona’s hot real estate market, a solar-equipped home is more attractive than ever — especially when it’s set up correctly.

Here’s what Arizona homeowners need to know about selling a home with solar.

1. Solar Adds Value — If It’s Owned, Not Leased

Studies from Zillow and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory show that homes with solar panels:

• Sell for more

• Sell faster

• Attract energy-conscious buyers looking for long-term savings

But there’s a key distinction:

• Owned systems (either paid in full or financed) increase home value

• Leased systems or third-party-owned solar may create complications

If you own your solar system outright or are financing it with a loan, the solar panels are considered part of the property — just like a remodeled kitchen or upgraded HVAC.

If your system is under a solar lease or power purchase agreement (PPA), the new buyer will typically need to assume the agreement — which can sometimes slow the transaction.

2. What Buyers Want to Know About Your Solar System

Serious buyers will likely ask questions like:

• How much does the system reduce your utility bill?

• Who installed the panels and when?

• Are the warranties transferable?

• Is there a monitoring app or production tracking?

• What is the age and brand of the panels and inverter?

Phoenix Valley Solar provides a detailed “solar home packet” for our clients, including:

• Installation documents

• Warranty info

• Energy production history

• Utility bill comparisons

• Transfer instructions (if applicable)

This helps your real estate agent clearly communicate the system’s value.

3. What Happens If You Still Owe Money on Your Solar Loan?

If you financed your solar system with a loan, you have a few options at closing:

Option 1: Pay Off the Loan

You can use proceeds from the sale to pay off the remaining balance. This clears the title and transfers the system as a fully owned asset — typically the most appealing scenario for buyers.

Option 2: Transfer the Loan

Some solar loan providers allow the buyer to assume your loan, pending credit approval. You’ll need to disclose this early and coordinate with your lender.

Tip: If you’re planning to sell your home within 5 years of installation, it’s wise to discuss loan terms that are favorable to buyers from the start.

4. What If You Have a Leased System?

If your solar system is leased, your options include:

• Transferring the lease to the buyer (most common)

• Paying off the lease to terminate it

• Prepaying the remaining lease to simplify transfer

You’ll need to work with your leasing company to start the process early. Buyers may be hesitant about assuming a lease unless the monthly payment is clearly outweighed by utility savings.

5. What If You’re Buying a New Home? Can You Take Your Panels With You?

Technically, yes — but it’s usually not worth it.

Moving a solar system involves:

• Removing panels and mounting hardware

• Repairing the roof

• Paying for reinstallation at the new location

• Losing system warranties in some cases

In most cases, it’s smarter to leave the system and roll its added value into your sale price, then install a new solar system on your next home — customized to the new roof and energy needs.

6. Solar Gives You a Competitive Edge in the Arizona Market

With summer utility bills climbing past $300–$500/month in many Phoenix neighborhoods, buyers are actively looking for homes with energy-efficient features — and solar tops that list.

When properly documented, a solar system:

• Differentiates your listing

• Helps justify a higher price

• Appeals to environmentally conscious buyers

• Supports appraised value through solar valuation tools

We work with your real estate agent to provide all the necessary solar system data and ensure your investment boosts your sale — not complicates it.

Why Work with Phoenix Valley Solar?

Whether you’re selling your current home or buying a new one, we offer:

• Expert evaluations of your existing solar system

• Help with documentation for appraisers and buyers

• Guidance on transferring warranties and monitoring apps

• Support for re-installation or new system design on your next home

We’re the best solar company in Phoenix for homeowners looking to make informed, profitable transitions — whether they stay in Arizona or move on.

Selling Soon? Let’s Maximize Your Solar Value.

Contact Phoenix Valley Solar today for a complimentary review of your system before you list. We’ll help you turn your solar investment into a selling point — not a question mark.

Are you considering solar energy for your home in Phoenix? Now is the perfect time to harness the power of the sun and take advantage of significant savings through federal and state tax credits. Our team at Phoenix Valley Solar can help you navigate these incentives and maximize your savings. You can also use our Arizona Solar Calculator to get an estimate of your potential benefits.