Solar panels are becoming an increasingly common feature in homes, but according to the 2025 REALTORS® Residential Sustainability Report, they may not always be a clear selling point. Nearly half of REALTORS® said they believe having solar panels makes it more difficult to sell a home. For buyers and sellers in the St. Louis Metro area, where energy costs and resale value are major considerations, this is an important insight to be aware of.
Adding to the uncertainty is how solar impacts the transaction itself. The top two challenges REALTORS® reported in dealing with sustainable properties were understanding how solar panels impact a transaction and how to properly value them. That means buyers may face complications in financing or insuring homes with panels, and sellers may not get the full return they expect. With these concerns, it’s no surprise that confusion around solar is a sticking point in today’s real estate conversations.
Still, solar isn’t all negative. Over half of REALTORS® said they are at least somewhat knowledgeable about solar panels and renewable systems. That growing awareness could pave the way for smoother, more informed transactions in the future. If you’re considering buying or selling a solar-equipped home in the St. Louis area, it’s essential to work with someone who understands the nuances involved. The full report from the National Association of REALTORS® is available below for those who want to dig deeper.
REALTORS Residential Sustainability Report 2025 – Perceived Selling Difficulty of Homes with Solar Panels (Chart)
