When contemplating a home build in the Bay Area, it is important to start off with realistic expectations around timeline. Homebuilding in this area is a slow process primarily due to obtaining the necessary approvals and permits. Labor shortages and high demand for contractors can also slow down the pace.
I will lay out below a typical timeline with the following caveat: this assumes you found a property that is generally compatible with what you want to do. Finding the right site for development will not only give you the outcome you want (a great house), but it will make your approvals process quicker. Proposing a house that strays too far from the city’s requirements could lead to a denial, possibly after an even lengthier appeals process, resulting in a year (or more) of work and tens of thousands of dollars wasted.
