How to Sell a Home With Solar Panels in Nashville

by Nik Shewmaker

How to Sell a Home With Solar Panels in Nashville

How do I sell a home with solar panels in Nashville?
To sell a home with solar panels in Nashville, clarify whether they’re leased or owned, highlight energy savings in your listing, and work with an agent like Nik Shewmaker who understands how to market green features effectively.

Why Solar Panels Matter in Home Sales

Green living isn’t just a trend in Nashville—it’s becoming a lifestyle. More buyers are looking for energy-efficient features, and solar panels can be a major selling point. But they can also be a bit of a curveball in a traditional real estate transaction. That’s why understanding how to navigate this process the right way matters.

Whether your solar system was purchased outright or leased through a company like Sunrun, how it's set up impacts how you sell—and how attractive your home is to buyers.

1. Determine Ownership: Leased vs. Owned Panels

The first thing buyers (and their agents) will ask is simple: “Do you own the solar panels?”

Owned Panels – These are generally seen as an asset. They increase the home’s value, lower utility bills, and there’s no extra paperwork to worry about.
Leased Panels – These can complicate the sale. Buyers have to assume the lease or qualify to take it over. The lease terms, monthly payment, and remaining contract duration will all factor into their decision.

🔍 Tip from Nik: Always have a copy of your purchase or lease agreement ready to share upfront. Transparency builds trust—and it saves time during negotiations.

2. Include Solar as a Marketing Advantage

In a city like Nashville, where electric bills can spike during summer and winter months, buyers appreciate lower utility costs.

Make sure to include:

A recent electric bill showing energy savings
Details on panel age, inverter type, and warranty info
Estimated energy production or solar offset, if available
Transferability of warranties or service agreements

Use strong listing language like:

“Equipped with an owned solar system offering low electric bills year-round—this eco-friendly upgrade blends sustainability with serious savings.”

3. Pricing Strategy and Appraisal Considerations

Solar can boost home value, but only if appraisers and buyers understand what they’re looking at. In the Nashville area, not all appraisers account for solar panels the same way.

That’s why Nik Shewmaker works closely with appraisers to ensure:

Documentation of solar ownership is presented
Comparables (if any) with similar energy-efficient upgrades are noted
The energy savings are framed as long-term value

🏡 Nik’s Advice: Don’t price based on emotion—price based on facts, features, and local comps. A home with solar panels should still align with other neighborhood properties.

4. Disclose, Disclose, Disclose

Tennessee law requires full disclosure of any material facts that could affect a home’s value or desirability. That includes the solar system.

Make sure your seller’s disclosure includes:

Solar panel installation date
Any known issues or repairs
Whether the system is under warranty
Lease or loan balance, if applicable

Buyers who feel like they’re getting the full picture are more likely to write a strong offer.

5. Work With a Realtor Who Knows the Solar Market

Most real estate agents can sell a house. But not every agent understands how to sell a home with solar panels—and that can cost you time and money.

Nik Shewmaker (aka Nashville’s Nik) brings:

Local experience marketing green homes in Middle Tennessee
A network of appraisers and lenders familiar with solar properties
Deep knowledge of contract language needed to transfer solar-related documents

🌞 Local Tip: Neighborhoods like East Nashville, Sylvan Park, and Green Hills are seeing increased buyer interest in eco-friendly homes.

Final Thoughts

Selling a home with solar panels in Nashville isn’t complicated—it just takes clarity and the right approach. By disclosing early, marketing the benefits, and working with a savvy agent like Nik Shewmaker, you can turn your solar setup into a standout selling point.