California requires solar on most new homes, so your FivePoint home will have it, but the ownership structure matters. This guide explains leased, owned, and financed solar and how each affects you.
California's energy code requires solar on most new homes, so a FivePoint home will include it. How you hold it — owned (cash or financed into the price) versus a third-party lease/PPA — affects monthly cost, resale, and transfer at sale. Confirm the exact solar arrangement and terms in writing with the builder. The Brian Cooper Real Estate Team serves the Santa Clarita Valley from our Simi Valley headquarters.
Why your new home has solar
California's Title 24 energy code requires solar on most newly constructed homes. The question is not whether you'll have solar, but how it is owned and paid for, which varies by builder and program.
The main arrangements
- Owned (purchased): included in the price or paid for outright; you own the system and any incentives. Cleanest at resale.
- Financed/loan: you own it but carry a separate loan; confirm payoff and transfer terms.
- Lease / Power Purchase Agreement (PPA): a third party owns the panels; you pay them monthly. The agreement must usually transfer to a buyer at resale.
Why ownership matters at resale
Owned solar is generally simplest when you sell. A lease or PPA typically requires the buyer to qualify for and assume the agreement, which can complicate a sale or affect price. Know which arrangement applies before you commit.
What to verify
- Whether the system is owned, financed, or leased/PPA.
- Total cost or monthly payment and any escalator.
- What transfers at resale and the buyer-qualification terms.
- Who maintains and warranties the system.
How we help
We confirm the exact solar arrangement and its terms before you close and explain how it affects your monthly cost and future sale. The Brian Cooper Real Estate Team serves the Santa Clarita Valley from our Simi Valley headquarters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my new FivePoint home have solar?
Almost certainly. California's energy code requires solar on most new homes. The key question is how it's owned and paid for, which varies by builder.
Is owned or leased solar better?
Owned solar is generally simplest, especially at resale, since there's no third-party agreement for a buyer to assume. A lease or PPA can complicate a future sale. Confirm which applies to your home.
What happens to leased solar when I sell?
Typically the buyer must qualify for and assume the lease or PPA, or the seller pays it off. This can affect the sale, so know the transfer terms before you buy.
Who maintains the solar system?
It depends on ownership. With a lease/PPA the third party usually maintains it; with owned systems you do, subject to manufacturer warranties. Confirm responsibilities in writing.
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.
