SELLER GUIDE

Selling a Home With Solar Panels in Florida: What You Need to Know

Solar panels can add value — or create complications — depending on whether they're owned or leased. Here's everything Florida sellers need to know before listing.

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Owned Solar vs. Leased Solar: A Critical Distinction

Owned solar panels are a clear positive — they transfer with the home, reduce future utility costs, and typically add $10,000–$25,000 in appraised value depending on system size and age. Leased solar panels are more complex: buyers must qualify to assume the lease, and some buyers walk away rather than take on a monthly solar payment they didn't plan for. Always disclose whether your panels are owned or leased as early as possible. If you have a power purchase agreement (PPA) or lease, gather the full agreement and understand the transfer process before you list.

Florida Disclosure Requirements for Solar

Florida's seller disclosure requirements apply to all material facts that affect value or desirability — and solar equipment is specifically something buyers want to understand. If your panels are leased, disclose the existence of the lease, monthly payment, remaining term, and transfer process. If owned, provide the system size (kW), installation date, remaining warranty, and average annual production. Buyers' agents will ask for this information; having it ready prevents delays and builds buyer confidence.

How to Maximize Value on the MLS With Solar

MLS listing is the best strategy for solar-equipped homes because it reaches the broad buyer market — including the growing segment of buyers who specifically search for energy-efficient homes. In your MLS listing description, highlight owned solar prominently: system size, average monthly savings, and utility bills if available. For leased systems, be transparent and include the monthly payment so buyers who are comfortable with it can self-select. Avoid cash buyers who routinely discount solar-equipped homes, citing the complication, rather than treating it as the asset it is.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Common Questions

Do solar panels increase home value in Florida?

Yes — owned solar panels typically increase Florida home values by $10,000–$25,000, depending on system size, age, and local electricity rates. Appraisers use the income approach (energy savings capitalized over remaining system life) or cost approach (depreciated installation cost). Higher electricity rates in South Florida generally produce larger value additions than markets with lower utility costs.

Can I sell a home with a solar lease in Florida?

Yes, but with additional steps. The solar lease or PPA must be transferred to the buyer, who typically must meet the solar company's credit requirements. Some buyers choose not to assume the lease, so you may need to buy out the remaining lease term or offer a price concession. Disclose the lease details upfront to avoid late-stage deal complications.

Should I remove solar panels before selling?

Generally no — removing owned panels almost always reduces value more than it simplifies the sale. Even leased panels are usually better transferred than removed (removal costs, roof patching, and lease buyout fees can exceed any sale price benefit). The exception: very old systems with significant remaining lease obligations and low energy production may need price adjustments rather than removal.

How do I market solar panels on the MLS in Florida?

Include system size (kW), monthly average energy production, typical utility bill reduction, system age, and whether panels are owned. Photos of the system and screenshots of utility bills showing near-zero bills are compelling marketing. For owned systems, mention the remaining warranty (most panels carry 25-year warranties). This positions solar as the genuine asset it is rather than leaving buyers to make assumptions.

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