HI Dhaba,
As Marian said, it's a great idea, but much to consider.
Our coastal area has a mix of bureaucracies (i.e. Coastal Commission, County, maybe a City, etc.) that must be satisfied before any building can be completed. These processes can take a very long time. How long? It depends, but it would be wises to plan on at least a couple years.
Ocean properties are in the "highest demand" and "least supply," therefore the prices are the highest. Have you thought of looking in the southern end of the San Mateo coast, and the northern end of the San Cruz County coast? You may get more for your money in those areas, although properties nearer to Half Moon Bay may be more convenient.
Interview a few local realtors, as we have more knowledge of this market, and pick one with whom you can easily relate.
You have a great idea, now let us help you turn your real estate dreams into concrete coastside realities.
Best wishes
Jim Hargis
Coldwell Banker-Half Moon Bay

Wed Jun 4 2008, 12:25

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Thu May 15 2008, 00:51

What an exciting project for you. A lot depends on your goals. There are important issues to be aware of when considering the purchase of land in the Half Moon Bay area, particularly oceanfront. Within the City of Half Moon Bay, there are growth limitations (Measure A); some lots are currently buildable and some are not, and zoning can vary (e.g. planned development, agriculture use, etc.). Also, some oceanfront lots are already owned by Peninsula Open Space Trust (P.O.S.T.), an organization dedicated to maintaining open space in our area and throughout the San Mateo County coast. Some lots are available for sale even though they are not on the market. For non-listed properties, it may take a well written letter and a good offer. El Granada, Moss Beach and Montara are under San Mateo County's jurisdiction; Coastside County Water District, Granada Sanitary District or Montara Water & Sanitary District will need to be consulted for water & sewer research. If you work from home, you will want to make sure you have the necessary cell phone/internet capabilities. Coverage is spotty in some areas here and may not be suitable for someone working from home. Local Realtors who have represented buyers and sellers know the unique issues here and know quickly where to go to get the answers you will need. Public data is not always accurate. There are many good agents in the area who can help you. You are best served by working with a local agent who knows the area, has the time/willingness to do research, and can guide you toward an appropriate parcel for your needs. Call or email 2 or 3 agents to get a feel for knowledge and style, then work with someone who is a good fit for you.

Wed Apr 23 2008, 09:01

Dhaba, You have to be cereful to purchase parcel in Half Moon Bay or any other coastal towns. You need to make sure that the parcel is buildable, therfore you need to go to County and see the history on this parcel, that you have to talk to Planninig Commissioner, to see waht they will permit you to build. Keep in mind that because is is located in coastal zone you will need to submit conceptuals building plans to Coastal Commisioner. The best bet is to buy an old house and tear it out, but you will need to get permits from all above stated entitys.

I pasted a link to the San Mateo County web page - Palnning Dept.
Hope it will help

Gene

Tue Apr 22 2008, 19:45

My suggestion is that you contact Frank Vento. He lives in Pescadero and knows the area inside out. Purchasing raw land is a specialty. There's a lot to know about it. Frank is a great friend and excellent realtor.

Frank's contact info: (650) 888-9900 Frank [at] FrankVento.com

Tue Apr 22 2008, 11:18

Dhaba,
What a nice goal to have a house on the ocean in San Mateo!
You might be better off finding a property with something on it already - building out on the ocean will be difficult at best. Be prepared for hoop jumping. It will be a long project if it doesn't already have a permitted structure to work with - it could be long even then.
I've been out here a long time and would be happy to discuss your interest in coastal real estate.
There is some acreage available. We'd need to discuss your needs and desires and try to find a match.
If you'd like some local help please get in touch.
The San Mateo coast is a fabulous place to settle. It's a great place for a second home or however you can get it! It's a marvelous location.

Mon Apr 21 2008, 14:19