Can Solar Panels Energize Your Real Estate Investment?

by gregrussell

Hard Money Loans for Energy-Wise Upgrades Help Boost Property Value

Given Oregon’s rainy reputation, it’s reasonable to ask the question “Do solar panels really work?”

When an Oregon homeowner successfully went solar in the Columbia Gorge (Are solar panels right for your home?), the answer was a resounding yes.

“My family’s simple rooftop solar is good for energy independence, good for our planet and good for our finances,” said solar convert and homeowner Brett VandenHeuvel. “That’s something to celebrate.”

Solar Adds Up to An Energy-Wise Investment

What do real estate professionals have to say about investing in solar in Oregon?

  1. You must own your own property and have good solar access.
  2. You must be able to afford up-front costs. (An equity-based hard money loan can provide fast, convenient financing for solar installation.)
  3. Rebates and tax incentives help alleviate up-front costs.
  4. A solar panel system pays for itself after a few years. In Oregon, the break-even point is 8-14 years.
  5. Solar is a smart investment if your energy bills are consistently high.
  6. Solar systems increase property value.
  7. Research and installation of solar is not complicated, thanks to nonprofit and government assistance programs.

Leasing solar panels is another option. It requires less investment up front, and the leasing company typically handles maintenance and repairs. However, the greatest ROI is achieved when a property owner purchases, rather than leases, a solar system.

Whether you own single-family rentals, multifamily units, or commercial properties, investing in solar can deliver meaningful benefits. Solar systems help reduce energy costs, increase long-term property value, and support a more sustainable environment. Even in cloudy regions like the Pacific Northwest, property owners can lower utility bills and boost their overall return on investment.

Finance Solar Upgrades with an Oregon Private Money Loan

If you’re considering major energy-efficiency upgrades or renovations to enhance your property value, our private money loan services can provide the bridge financing you need. We offer customizable, equity-based hard money loan solutions for improvements and upgrades. Contact our Gregory M. Russell loan team to learn more about funding your next real estate project.