Hot Property: Former Hearst castle site in Sausalito lists for $4.25 million

A Sausalito, Calif., property with ties to newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst has been listed for sale at $4.25 million.

Enchanted by the views of San Francisco Bay, Hearst, then early in his career at the San Francisco Examiner, once planned to build a castle-estate, complete with his own private bridge leading to the bay, on the promontory in Marin County. Hearst began construction on the estate in 1890 but abandoned his efforts after facing local opposition and commissioned the building of the Hearst Castle in San Simeon.

Hearst, who is one of four who have owned the historic property, sold the lot in 1944. It is the first time in more than three decades that the estate has been listed for sale.

“Its history along makes it a treasure trove of tantalizing tales, but its views and location make it truly exceptional,” Louis Scheinberg, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Realtor and listing agent, said in a statement. “I can’t wait to read the next chapter in Sausalito, as it’s written by the property’s new owners.”

The waterside parcel, framing 180-degree views of the Bay Bridge and downtown San Francisco, holds the remains of Hearst’s original foundation and a 125-year-old home that is intended to be demolished. Plans for a three-bedroom home designed by San Francisco architect Andrew Skurman are included in the listing.

Twitter: @NJLeitereg