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Solar Savings

July 31, 2024

This year we started including a 4 kW solar system with our new homes. As hard as we work to keep our costs down, we thought we'd explain why we would include a feature that adds to our overall costs. 

Tax Incentives

The huge benefit of solar is that you the home buyer receive the tax incentives. You'll receive a federal tax credit (dollar for dollar tax savings) of approximately $4,000 in the first year. That is free money that we are offering you! Additionally you'll get a state tax deduction (which we estimate to be between $700-$800 in savings in the state of Idaho spread over four years). 

Cost Savings

This summer has been especially hot, and you've probably noticed your electric bill is higher than normal. With solar panels you can start saving money right away. We estimate that our panels will save you an average of $65 per month ($780 per year) on your electric bills. This is based on the wattage of the panels, the tilt, orientation, the average hours of sunlight in our area, and on current utility rates. And this number will only grow as utility rates increase (and it's certain that utility rates will continue to rise year after year). 

Solar is our Incentive

Builders have been offering various sales promotions such as price discounts, interest rate buydowns, money toward upgrades, and discounted closing costs. Of all the concessions we could offer, we believe that solar offers the most value to our buyers.  In order to save $65 per month on your mortgage payment, you'd have to reduce your principal amount by $10,000 (based on today's interest rates of 7%).  Or you'd have to buy down your interest rate, which is very expensive and often temporary.  And, of course, no tax incentives for interest rate buydowns or principal reductions. 

Renewable Energy

With Solar panels, your home is powered by clean, renewable energy, which helps the environment. You can take comfort knowing your power source is sustainable and doesn't contribute to pollution.  You are less dependent on the grid and actually reduce the strain on the system. The demands on the power company during peak hours is mitigated, leading to fewer rolling blackouts. 

Long-Term Value

We've partnered with reputable and experienced solar companies to install a quality product. With a 25-year manufacturer's warranty, these panels will last years if not generations. The panels are very resistant to weather, including hail. Unless you live on a golf course you shouldn't have any damage to your solar panels. And you don't need to clean or maintain the panels, just enjoy the savings! 

No Strings Attached

These solar panels are included in the price of your home and they are fully paid for. You won't have any payments to make or lease to assume. So when you decide to sell your house, you have an unencumbered solar system that can increase your asking price. 

This is our way to combat inflation and high interest rates to help you save money on your monthly payments and add permanent value to your home!

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