January 23, 20269 min readDane Crosby, MRP

Navigating PCS Orders to Coronado: VA Realtor Advice from a San Diego MRP

Expert Guidance with SEAL Family Ties and Local Coronado Knowledge

PCS orders to Coronado can be exciting yet daunting, especially when using VA loans in a competitive market. If you're googling "PCS to San Diego VA realtor," consider Dane Crosby of the Crosby Home Team. As an MRP, Dane's approach is informed by his Coronado roots: He attended Coronado Junior High and High School, immersing him in the island's military heritage.

Dane's family story is inspiring—his grandfather served as a UDT SEAL, braving underwater missions in Korea and Vietnam. His brother, a decorated Navy SEAL, continues that tradition with awards for operations in the Middle East. This background makes Dane more than a realtor; he's an advocate for military families.

Three Generations of Naval Service

From his grandfather's UDT SEAL missions in Korea and Vietnam to his brother's decorated service in the Middle East, Dane's family has served with distinction for generations. This heritage informs every aspect of his military relocation expertise.

PCS Timeline and VA Preparation

PCS typically gives 6-9 months notice, but San Diego's inventory requires early action. Dane suggests getting VA Certificate of Eligibility (COE) via eBenefits portal first. For loans, aim for lenders like Navy Federal, offering streamlined approvals.

Budgeting tip: Coronado BAH for E-7 is $3,800—pair it with VA's 100% financing to afford a $850,000 condo. Dane's MRP training helps avoid entitlement restoration fees if selling concurrently.

PCS Preparation Checklist

  • 6-9 months before: Obtain VA Certificate of Eligibility via eBenefits
  • 4-6 months before: Get pre-approved with VA-savvy lender (Navy Federal, USAA)
  • 3-4 months before: Start home search with MRP realtor
  • 2-3 months before: Make offers and begin escrow process
  • 1 month before: Coordinate closing with PCS move date

Prime Areas for PCS Arrivals

Coronado's proximity to NAB Coronado is unbeatable, with homes featuring golf course access. Dane recommends Village of Coronado for walkability to schools he once attended. For larger families, head to South Bay—Chula Vista homes at $650,000 with VA perks.

Avoid tourist traps; Dane's local insight steers you to hidden gems like Bonita, with equestrian trails for downtime.

Coronado Island

  • Village of Coronado: Walkable to schools, shops
  • Golf course homes: Premium amenities
  • Condos: Starting at $850K with BAH
  • Commute: 5 min to NAB Coronado

South Bay Area

  • Chula Vista: Homes from $650K
  • Bonita: Equestrian trails, family-friendly
  • Imperial Beach: Budget-friendly beachfront
  • Commute: 15-20 min to base

VA Loan Challenges and Solutions

Appraisals can undervalue—Dane negotiates amendments, ensuring sellers cover gaps. For IRRRL refinances post-PCS, he connects you with rates under 5.5%.

Success story: A SEAL team member, akin to Dane's brother, PCSed and bought a waterfront property with Dane's guidance, using VA jumbo loans over $1 million.

VA Jumbo Loan Success

A Navy SEAL team member successfully purchased a $1.2 million waterfront property in Coronado using VA jumbo loan benefits. Dane's MRP expertise navigated the complex appraisal and entitlement requirements seamlessly.

Long-Term Military Housing Strategy

Post-PCS, consider renting out via Airbnb during TDY. Dane's team manages properties, complying with VA occupancy rules. His grandfather's UDT discipline taught perseverance—Dane applies it to complex relocations.

Contact the Crosby Home Team for PCS support. Dane's Coronado education and SEAL lineage ensure top-tier service.

Investment & Rental Strategy

Maximize your investment by renting your property during deployments or TDY assignments. Dane's team can help you:

  • • Navigate VA occupancy requirements (12-month initial occupancy)
  • • Set up property management for deployments
  • • Optimize rental income with short-term or long-term strategies
  • • Ensure compliance with HOA and military housing regulations

Ready for Your PCS to Coronado?

Work with an MRP who grew up on the island and understands military life.

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