Finance tool

Home Value Impact Estimator

Owned solar adds measurable resale value; leased solar can subtract it. Two published research methods bracket the estimate for your system.

System size (kW)

Current home value

System ownership

Estimated uplift (LBL method, ~$4,000/kW)$32,000

Zillow method (4.1% of home value)$18,450

Two published methods bracket the estimate: Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory's paired-sales research (~$4/W for owned systems) and Zillow's 2019 listing analysis (~4.1% sale premium). Real premiums depend on system age, local electricity rates, and how familiar your market's appraisers are with solar — document production history for the appraisal.

The evidence

The studies, their caveats, and why leases are the exception: Does Solar Increase Home Value? If resale value is part of a bigger equity or timing decision, consider a financial advisor via AdvisorWorld alongside your agent and appraiser.