Solar system increases value of your house

Solar energy is a hot topic and many people are considering their options to go solar. But, what if you move, rent a home or simply aren’t sure how to afford installing solar panels? I have some solutions for you as you work through whether or not solar will work for your situation. While there are many benefits to installing solar panels on your home, everything from lowering your energy bills to reducing your carbon footprint, choosing solar isn’t a decision you should make lightly. There is plenty to consider when looking into solar, and it’s important you weigh all options.

How to get solar installed

Finding a reputable and reliable solar installation company might be one of the harder part of going solar. There are a plethora of businesses touting solar due to it’s increasing popularity, but solar panels should only be installed by a trained professional who is versed in all areas of installation. For example, solar panels can be installed on virtually any type of roof, but inexperienced companies will say they can only install panels on composite shingles because it’s easier and doesn’t take as long to install. Do a thorough vetting of the company you choose and be sure to check references and online reviews at websites like consumeraffairs.com, solarreviews.com, yelp.com, etc. to find a service provider with a great reputation.

How to afford solar

At this point in time, there are huge rebate incentives from the federal government in addition to local levels. Currently the federal government provides a tax credit, which can take up to 30 percent off the cost of the system if you

choose to pay it outright. Talk to your solar provider and discuss your options as some companies offer the ability to lease or make payments on your system.

What happens when you move?

Typical solar systems are installed on rooftops and cannot be relocated if you move to a new home. Your solar investment and payoff will no longer benefit you in your electricity bills, But many homebuyers see solar as a major upgrade and having a solar system installed at your home could bring you a premium sale on your residence. Most homeowners won’t have any trouble paying off the remaining solar system with the additional price tag they can assume when they sell.

A new solar option that is now coming to market is a portable solar energy system. Portable solar might be a solution that more people will find beneficial instead of the traditional roof style solar. There are bound to be many more of these types of solar options in the near future. One beautiful design is the “Smart Flower” – it’s a self supported solar system for your entire home. It does not need to be attached to a rooftop (unless you choose to attach it). The Smart Flower is unique because it produces up to 40 percent more power than a comparable traditional rooftop system due to its ability to track the sun at a 90-degree angle from sun up to sun down. It literally moves with the sun! The system needs no installation and is ready to use within an hour of being delivered.

In addition to being able to take a portable system with you if you purchase a new home, a portable solar system also works well for renters because of it’s ability to be temporary and requires no rewiring or structural changes to the residence.

Be on the lookout for more portable systems to come to market. This could be the solution we have been waiting for.

Maureen Hughes is the Lead Listing Specialist of The Wayne Megill Real Estate Team of Keller Williams Brandywine Valley in West Chester. For buyer or seller representation, or for more perspective on the local and national real estate market, please email maureenhughes@ kw.com and visit The Wayne Megill Team site at http://www. waynemegillteam.com.