Bakersfield, CA is a city located in the southern San Joaquin Valley, known for its warm climate, oil production, and agriculture. With its growing population, the demand for housing has increased, and many homebuyers are looking for homes with solar panels. In this blog post, we will discuss the benefits of buying a home in Bakersfield, CA with solar panels, the cost of solar panels, and the process of buying a home with solar panels.

Benefits of Buying a Home in Bakersfield, CA with Solar Panels

1. Lower Electricity Bills
   Bakersfield has an average of 272 sunny days per year, making it an ideal location for solar panels. Solar panels generate electricity from the sun, which means you can reduce your electricity bills by producing your electricity. When you buy a home with solar panels, you will enjoy the benefits of free energy from the sun, and you will save money on your monthly utility bills.
2. Increase in Home Value
   According to a study by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, homes with solar panels sell faster and for more money than homes without solar panels. A home with solar panels is an attractive feature for homebuyers because it offers them the opportunity to save money on their energy bills. Homes with solar panels also have a lower environmental impact and are considered more eco-friendly, making them more desirable to homebuyers.
3. Federal Tax Credit
   When you buy a home with solar panels, you may qualify for the federal tax credit for solar energy. The federal tax credit allows you to deduct a portion of the cost of your solar panels from your taxes. The tax credit is currently 22% of the cost of your solar panel system, and it is set to expire in 2023. The federal tax credit is an excellent incentive to buy a home with solar panels because it can help reduce the cost of your solar panel system.

Cost of Solar Panels

The cost of solar panels varies depending on the size of your solar panel system, the quality of the solar panels, and the installation cost. The average cost of a 5 kW solar panel system in Bakersfield, CA, is $13,450 before the federal tax credit. After the federal tax credit, the cost of a 5 kW solar panel system is approximately $10,486. The cost of solar panels has decreased significantly over the past few years, making them more affordable for homeowners.

The Process of Buying a Home with Solar Panels

1. Research
   The first step in buying a home with solar panels is to research the different types of solar panels, the size of the solar panel system, and the installation cost. You should also research the different neighborhoods in Bakersfield, CA, to find the best location for your new home. You can use online resources such as Zillow, Realtor.com, and Redfin to search for homes with solar panels.
2. Work with a Real Estate Agent
   Once you have researched the different types of solar panels and neighborhoods in Bakersfield, CA, you should work with a real estate agent who has experience with solar homes. A real estate agent who is knowledgeable about solar homes can help you find the right home and negotiate the best price for you.
3. Hire a Solar Panel Installer
   After you have found the right home, you should hire a solar panel installer to install your solar panel system. You should research different solar panel installers in Bakersfield, CA, to find the best installer for your needs. You should also get multiple quotes from different installers to compare prices and services.
4. Get a Home Inspection
   Before you finalize your purchase, you should get a home inspection to ensure that the home is in good condition and that the solar panel system is working correctly. A home inspection will also reveal any potential issues with the home that you may want to address before finalizing the purchase.
5. Close the Deal
   Once you have completed all of the necessary steps, it’s time to close the deal and move into your new home. Your real estate agent will guide you through the closing process and ensure that all necessary paperwork is completed.

Conclusion

Buying a home in Bakersfield, CA with solar panels can provide many benefits, including lower electricity bills, an increase in home value, and a federal tax credit. The cost of solar panels has decreased significantly in recent years, making them more affordable for homeowners. When buying a home with solar panels, it’s essential to do your research, work with a real estate agent who has experience with solar homes, hire a reputable solar panel installer, get a home inspection, and close the deal. With careful planning and attention to detail, you can find your dream home in Bakersfield, CA with solar panels and enjoy the benefits of solar energy for years to come.