Forget painting and new curtains, there is one thing certain to add value to your home

FORGET painting or getting new curtains, there is one thing new research has found will add value to your home.

Young couple looking at a house. Picture: THINKSTOCK

FORGET about painting the walls and hanging new curtains, a new survey has revealed adding solar panels is what makes your home more valuable.

The survey for Origin Energy, done through realestate.com.au, revealed 85 per cent of respondents believed solar rooftop panels increased the value of a property.

They were considered the top “green’’ feature to increase a home’s value.

About three quarters of renters surveyed said they would be happy to pay more rent to live in a property with solar panels.

About 78 per cent of those surveyed believed it would add up to $10,000 to the price of a home.

A similar number agreed it would make the home a more attractive buying prospect for them.

Of the renters surveyed 40 per cent said they would be willing to pay $10 more per week for a house with solar panels.

About 40 per cent of respondents were prepared to pay $10 a week more for a house with solar panels. Picture: Thinkstock.

Phil Craig of Origin said the findings showed that solar panels could be a significant asset.

He said as well as helping with the cost of running a household it could provide a “real boost’’ if owners decided to sell.

REA Group Chief Product Officer, Henry Ruiz, said if you were looking to sell or lease your property it would be worthwhile considering adding solar panels.

“If you’re looking to sell or lease your property, it’s a really simple measure you can take to gain a competitive edge in the market.’’

What green features owners believe adds value

Solar rooftop panels 85%

Energy efficient appliances 79%

Solar hot water system 78%

Water tanks 70%

Water saving fixtures 47%