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How to Check Sun on Property Before Buying

Use free 3D shadow analysis to see exactly how much sunlight a property gets year-round—before you make an offer.

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Why Check Sunlight Before Buying?

Property Value

Sunny properties typically sell for 5-10% more than comparable dark ones. Natural light is one of the most requested features by buyers.

Energy Costs

A well-lit home needs less artificial lighting and can benefit from passive solar heating in winter, reducing electricity and heating bills.

Health & Wellbeing

Natural light affects mood, sleep quality, and vitamin D levels. Dark homes are associated with seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

Garden Success

Most vegetables need 6-8 hours of direct sunlight. A shaded garden limits what you can grow and reduces lawn health.

Step-by-Step Guide

1

Navigate to the Property

Open SunMap and search for the property address, or navigate manually on the map. Zoom in until you can see the specific building and its surroundings clearly.

Tip: The 3D view works best at zoom level 16-18 where buildings are rendered in full detail.

2

Check Summer Sunlight (Best Case)

Set the date to June 21st (Northern Hemisphere) or December 21st (Southern Hemisphere). This is when the sun is highest and days are longest—your best-case sunlight scenario.

Use the time slider to watch shadows move throughout the day. Note which areas stay sunny.

3

Check Winter Sunlight (Worst Case)

Set the date to December 21st (Northern Hemisphere) or June 21st (Southern Hemisphere). Winter is the critical test—the sun is at its lowest and shadows are at their longest.

If the property gets decent light in winter, it will be fine year-round.

4

Evaluate Key Areas

Focus on the areas that matter most:

  • Garden/yard: Does it get at least 6 hours of direct sun for growing?
  • Main living room: Will it have natural light throughout the day?
  • Bedroom windows: Morning sun can help wake you naturally.
  • Solar panels: Is the roof shade-free between 9am-3pm?
5

Check for Future Risks

Look for empty lots or low buildings to the south (Northern Hemisphere) or north (Southern Hemisphere) that could be developed into taller buildings. New construction could dramatically change your sunlight.

Consider checking local planning applications for the area.

Red Flags to Watch For

Tall buildings to the south

Buildings to the south (Northern Hemisphere) cast the longest shadows, especially in winter.

North-facing main rooms (Northern Hemisphere)

These rooms never get direct sunlight. Consider if you're okay with diffused light only.

Large trees close to the building

Trees block significant light. Evergreens block year-round; deciduous trees allow some winter sun.

Empty lots nearby

Future development could block your sunlight. Check local planning for approved projects.

Check Any Property Now

Use SunMap to analyze sunlight on any property worldwide. Free, no signup required.

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