Mitt Romney Quadrupling Size of California Oceanfront Home

Despite some opposition from neighbors, former Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney is going forward with plans to demolish his 3,000-square-foot California oceanfront home and replace it with a 12,000-square-foot mansion.

The teardown and replacement of the home in La Jolla was delayed after Romney, estimated to be worth nearly $250 million, was attacked for his wealth during the 2012 campaign and opponents tried to define him as someone who couldn't relate to the average American.

One of the reported renovations is the inclusion of an elevator for his cars that would carry the vehicles to his basement garage.

Last spring, when news of the proposed garage first surfaced, Romney was ridiculed by liberals and conservatives alike for wanting to add the elevator to the La Jolla home.

Construction is set to begin on the project once the permit process is complete, according to local ABC News affiliate 10 News.

"We're very close to being ready for a hearing," said Matthew Peterson, a lawyer who is representing the Romney's in the permit process.

According to 10 News, some neighbors have complained about the expansion plans and subsequent construction, despite the fact that there are already work crews demolishing two homes adjacent to Romney's house.

One resident in Romney's corner thinks the opposition is more political than having anything to do with property values or quality of life.

Long-time La Jolla resident Jack Clancy, who has resided in the area for 51 years, isn't concerned about the construction plans, telling 10 News that most gripes from neighbors are not because of the project itself but rather the fact that the property is owned by the former Massachusetts governor.

"Because I know there's a height limit here and obviously he's going to abide by everything there, and there's going to be a pretty sharp pencil on exactly what he does," said Clancy. "I just feel if he is able to get the necessary permits, then he's entitled to do what he wants to do there."

"It's like he's maybe being singled out as opposed to the other constructions that are going on here," Clancy added.

In addition to the oceanfront property, Romney also owns five additional homes throughout the country.

Though from a relatively affluent and connected family, Romney is actually a self-made man who earned his money through investments and business management.