We've heard so much about solar panels. Alex Davies, director and property valuer at Hobbs Parker looks at the pros and cons.

Homebuyers’ ambivalence towards solar energy may be changing.

Following a cold winter and higher household energy bills, many buyers are paying more attention to the fuel efficiency of homes for sale and in particular the savings associated with energy efficient technology.

Significant savings can be made from solar energy and many home owners are taking advantage of feed-in tariffs and the investment returns possible over a number of years. Photovoltaic panels are an increasingly common sight on roof slopes.

It is not yet possible to suggest that solar panels enhance the value of the home but they are definitely increasing the saleability as buyers become more aware of the benefits.

It can only be a matter of time before an allowance is made in house prices for these facilities, probably repaying the initial investment made in recognition the buyer will benefit over the longer term.

But property owners should be careful when entering into agreements with energy efficiency providers where panels are fitted free in return for a long lease in favour of the provider. Typically, the home owner receives the benefit of free energy with the provider receiving the feed-in tariff benefit.

Homeowners should check with their mortgage lenders and solicitors before entering into such an agreement which at the very least should contain a buy-out clause in case of a change of circumstances and the provider should be registered with the Microgeneration Certification Scheme.

Homeowners should also carefully consider the aesthetic appeal of solar panels, particularly those positioned on front roofslopes as the appearance could detrimentally affect the house’s value.

Modern houses seem to accommodate solar panels more readily than period houses, so talk to installers about the options available before making a final decision.