San Diego's climate is mild, but buyers still ask what a home costs to run. Electricity rates, solar, and air conditioning in inland neighborhoods all shape the answer.
Clear, accurate answers help. These are the questions San Diego sellers commonly hear.
What Do Utilities Cost Throughout the Year?
Most San Diego homes are served by SDG&E for electricity and gas. Many customers also receive power through San Diego Community Power or another community choice program, which appears on the SDG&E bill. Download a year of billing history from your online account. Note your rate plan, since time-of-use plans change costs by hour. Usage in kilowatt-hours and therms is often more useful than dollars.
Coastal homes may use little air conditioning, while homes inland in places like Escondido or Santee may see summer peaks. Your bills reflect your household's habits.
Do You Have Solar?
Buyers will want to know if the system is owned or leased, its size and age, and which net metering arrangement applies, since older and newer programs credit power differently. Leases need to be transferred or paid off, so start early. Owned systems should have warranties and production records.
What Should Buyers Know About Heating and Cooling?
Share the system type, fuel, and age. Many coastal homes have forced-air heat and no central air. Lifespan and sizing questions belong with a licensed technician or the buyer's inspector.
How Are Water and Sewer Handled?
Water and sewer come from the City of San Diego or a local water district, often billed every two months. Note the provider, cycle, and how landscape irrigation affects use.
Are There Comfort Problems?
A west-facing room that heats up in September or a home without A/C during a heat wave is worth describing. California has detailed disclosure requirements, so talk with us.
If you're preparing to sell, ask us which running-cost information would be useful to have ready for buyers considering your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who provides electricity in San Diego?
SDG&E delivers power, and many customers receive generation through San Diego Community Power.
Does my solar net metering plan transfer?
Generally the existing interconnection stays with the home, but confirm details with SDG&E and your installer.
Does leased solar transfer when I sell?
It usually must be transferred or paid off.
How often are San Diego water bills sent?
The City of San Diego commonly bills every two months.
Should I mention if my home has no A/C?
Yes. Buyers will want to know.
Do I have to share utility bills?
It isn't required, but many buyers ask.
