El Paso receives more solar radiation than almost any major city in the United States, making solar panels an increasingly common feature on local homes. But when it comes time to sell, how do solar panels actually affect your home's value? The answer depends on whether you own or lease your system, its age and condition, and how you present it to buyers. This guide breaks down what El Paso sellers need to know about selling a home with solar.
The El Paso Solar Advantage
El Paso averages over 300 days of sunshine and some of the highest solar irradiance levels in the country. A typical residential solar system in El Paso produces significantly more energy per panel than the same system installed in most other U.S. cities. This translates to lower electric bills, faster payback periods, and greater value for buyers who understand the numbers. El Paso Electric's rate structure also supports solar, with net metering allowing homeowners to earn credits for excess energy sent back to the grid.
Owned Solar: The Value Add
If you own your solar system outright — meaning it is paid off with no remaining loan or lease — it is a clear asset when selling your home. National studies indicate that owned solar panels add an average of $15,000 to $20,000 to a home's sale price, though the exact premium depends on system size, age, and local market conditions. In El Paso, where cooling costs are a significant concern for buyers, a fully owned solar system that demonstrably reduces electric bills is an attractive feature.
When marketing an owned solar system, include specific data in your listing: system size in kilowatts, average monthly production, annual energy savings in dollars, and the age and warranty status of the system. Concrete numbers resonate with buyers far more than vague claims about going green. If you have past electric bills showing minimal or zero charges, share those in your listing description or disclosure documents.
Leased Solar: The Complications
Leased solar systems present a different situation. If you lease your panels or financed them through a power purchase agreement (PPA), selling becomes more complex. The lease is a contract tied to your property, and the buyer must either assume the lease, or you must buy out the remaining term. Some buyers — particularly those using VA or FHA loans — may face lender restrictions on assuming solar leases.
In El Paso's market, leased solar can slow down a transaction if not handled proactively. Before listing, contact your solar company to understand the transfer process, any transfer fees, and the remaining lease term and monthly payment. Include this information in your seller disclosures so buyers can evaluate the situation before making an offer. Being transparent upfront prevents surprises during the option period.
How Appraisers Handle Solar in El Paso
One challenge with solar and home value is the appraisal. Not all appraisers are trained to properly value solar installations, and if the appraiser does not account for the system, it will not be reflected in the appraised value. This matters particularly for financed buyers whose loan amount is capped by the appraisal. To help, provide the appraiser with documentation of your system's cost, age, production data, and the income approach value based on energy savings.
Marketing Solar in Your Listing
- Include system size, age, and ownership status in the MLS listing remarks.
- Highlight monthly and annual energy savings with specific dollar amounts.
- Mention the warranty status and any transferable coverage.
- If owned, emphasize zero or near-zero electric bills as a major selling point.
- Include photos of the solar installation in your listing photography.
The Bottom Line for El Paso Sellers
In a city with over 300 days of sunshine, solar panels are an asset that buyers increasingly appreciate. Owned systems add measurable value and can help your home sell faster. Leased systems require more preparation but are manageable with proper disclosure and proactive communication with your solar provider. Either way, solar should be featured prominently in your listing, not treated as an afterthought.
When you list with ProGen Real Estate, we ensure your solar system is properly highlighted in your GEPAR MLS listing and syndicated to Zillow, Realtor.com, and all major platforms. Combine your solar advantage with flat-fee listing savings for the best possible net outcome. <a href='/get-started'>Get started with your listing today</a>.