After you go under contract on a to-be-built home, you select finishes at the builder's design center. This guide explains how that process works at FivePoint Valencia builders and how to budget for it.
At FivePoint builders, the design center (or studio/gallery) is where you choose upgrades after contract. Appointments are time-boxed, selections often require deposits, and costs add up fast. Set an upgrade budget first, prioritize hard-to-change items, and confirm current pricing and deadlines with the builder. The Brian Cooper Real Estate Team serves the Santa Clarita Valley from our Simi Valley headquarters.
What the design center is
Each builder runs a design studio (names vary: Design Center, Home Gallery, Design Studio) where you select flooring, cabinets, counters, fixtures, and structural and electrical options for a to-be-built home. Model homes are usually heavily upgraded, so the base home looks different from the model.
How the appointments work
- You're given a window after contract to make selections.
- Appointments are time-boxed, so come prepared with priorities.
- Selections are often locked by a deadline tied to the construction schedule.
- Upgrade costs are typically added to the purchase price and may require a deposit.
Budget before you walk in
Design-center costs can escalate quickly. Set a firm upgrade budget before your appointment and remember that upgrades financed into the loan are paid over 30 years. Prioritize items that are expensive or disruptive to change later, like structural options, electrical and EV pre-wire, and certain flooring.
Spend on the right things
- Prioritize structural and hard-to-change items first.
- Consider EV-charger and additional electrical pre-wire now.
- Cosmetic finishes can often be upgraded later for less.
- Compare builder pricing on some items against aftermarket where practical.
How we help
We help you set an upgrade budget, flag which selections matter most for livability and resale, and keep the dollars in line so you don't overspend at the studio. The Brian Cooper Real Estate Team serves the Santa Clarita Valley from our Simi Valley headquarters.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the design center?
It's the builder's studio where you select finishes and options for a to-be-built home after going under contract. Names vary by builder. Model homes are usually heavily upgraded versus the base home.
How much do design-center upgrades cost?
It varies widely and adds up fast. Set a firm upgrade budget before your appointment. Confirm current option pricing and deposit requirements directly with the builder.
Which upgrades are worth it?
Prioritize structural and hard-to-change items, plus electrical and EV pre-wire. Cosmetic finishes can often be done later for less. We help you prioritize for livability and resale.
Are upgrades financed into the loan?
Often yes, upgrades are added to the purchase price and financed over the loan term, meaning you pay interest on them for years. Budget accordingly and confirm with your lender.
How much is Mello-Roos here?
There is no single figure. In the SCV, Mello-Roos special taxes are typically higher than in Ventura County and vary by tract and parcel. Review the specific parcel's tax bill and the builder's CFD disclosures to learn the actual annual amount before you commit.
Are the prices and phases on this page current?
No. This page is general guidance only and intentionally avoids quoting prices, phase availability, floor-plan sizes, completion dates, or incentive specifics, because they change constantly. Confirm all current details directly with the builder.
