• #009 Pensacola: Buying a House as an Student Naval Aviator - the Pros and Cons w/ Bob Moore '23
    Jun 26 2024

    Should I purchase a house or rent when I move to Pensacola?

    Will I be in Pensacola long enough to buy a house?

    If I buy a house, is it possible to rent out rooms to other aviators?

    These are questions that Bob Moore, USNA '23, asked himself as he was moving to Pensacola.

    In this episode he talks all about his decision to purchase a home in Pensacola, FL as a student aviator.

    We discuss the neighborhoods he looked at, the location he settled on, and why he decided to make the decision to purchase a home. For all midshipmen and families, this can be a great episode to hear one person talk about their decision making thought process!


    Connect with your host Grant Vermeer on Linkedin or email him at grant@thevermeergroup.com.

    The USNA Property Network Podcast is powered by sponsorship from The Vermeer Group specializing in assisting the United States Naval Academy community and other select clientele.

    Grant is a Bay Area native, being born and raised in Mountain View. He is a graduate of Bellarmine College Preparatory and the great class of 2017 from the United States Naval Academy. During his time at the Naval Academy, Grant was a cyber operations major and a four year member of the basketball team. He then commissioned into the Cryptologic Warfare Community and served in support of Submarine Operations.

    Due to his experience, he brings an expertise on real estate for military members and veterans, including the use of the VA loan. He is licensed in both California and Texas.

    He is the founder of the non-profit 501C3 Academy Insider and host of the Academy Insider podcast.

    The mission of Academy Insider is to guide, serve, and support Midshipmen, future Midshipmen, and their families.


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    28 mins
  • #008 Pensacola: A Reflection on living in Pensacola as a Student Naval Aviator w/ Marley Lyster
    Jun 19 2024

    In this episode, Grant talks with Marley about her experience living as a student naval aviator stationed at both NAS Pensacola and NAS Whiting Field.

    She discusses factors to consider on your housing location based on what you want most out of your experience!


    Connect with your host Grant Vermeer on Linkedin or email him at grant@thevermeergroup.com.

    The USNA Property Network Podcast is powered by sponsorship from The Vermeer Group specializing in assisting the United States Naval Academy community and other select clientele.

    Grant is a Bay Area native, being born and raised in Mountain View. He is a graduate of Bellarmine College Preparatory and the great class of 2017 from the United States Naval Academy. During his time at the Naval Academy, Grant was a cyber operations major and a four year member of the basketball team. He then commissioned into the Cryptologic Warfare Community and served in support of Submarine Operations.

    Due to his experience, he brings an expertise on real estate for military members and veterans, including the use of the VA loan. He is licensed in both California and Texas.

    He is the founder of the non-profit 501C3 Academy Insider and host of the Academy Insider podcast.

    The mission of Academy Insider is to guide, serve, and support Midshipmen, future Midshipmen, and their families.


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    27 mins
  • #007 Pensacola: An Overview of Pensacola for Student Naval Aviators with Archie Warren '13
    Jun 12 2024

    Join us as we sit down with Archie Warren, a 2013 Naval Academy graduate and real estate expert, alongside his father Paul, a former Blue and Gold Officer, to uncover the best neighborhoods for military officers relocating to the Pensacola Area. Whether you're seeking an easy commute to the Naval station, a beachside retreat, or a vibrant downtown lifestyle, we promise you'll gain valuable insights to kickstart your research.

    We'll take you on a tour through Pensacola's diverse neighborhoods, from the proximity to the Naval Air Station in Warrington and Myrtle Grove to the upscale vibes of East Hill and Perdido Key. Discover the latest trends in property values, the appeal of new developments like Fairchild Village, and how each neighborhood stacks up in terms of cost, community, and convenience. Whether you're looking to buy or rent, this episode offers a thorough comparison to help you make an informed decision.

    For young Navy grads heading to flight school, Archie and Paul share personalized real estate guidance, focusing on lifestyle preferences and investment strategies. Tune in to learn about lucrative opportunities in the booming downtown Pensacola market, including short-term rentals and the benefits of building additional dwelling units. Plus, get the inside scoop on hidden gems like affordable golf courses, top-notch dining spots, and secluded beaches that make Pensacola a fantastic place to live. Don't miss this comprehensive episode packed with practical advice and local favorites!

    The USNA property network podcast educates military officers on the neighborhoods surrounding the military bases in which they could PCS.

    Our mission is to provide genuine, authentic, informal conversations that's going to help Navy and Marine Corps officers start their research into their new home.

    This podcast is made possible thanks to the sponsorship of The Vermeer Group. The Vermeer Group is a residential real estate team that specializes in helping Naval Academy graduates and other select clientele move to both Monterey and San Diego, California. If you have any real estate questions at all, please reach out to me directly at grant@thevermeergroup.com.

    I'd be more than happy to help.

    Connect with your host Grant Vermeer on Linkedin or email him at grant@thevermeergroup.com.


    Connect with your host Grant Vermeer on Linkedin or email him at grant@thevermeergroup.com.

    The USNA Property Network Podcast is powered by sponsorship from The Vermeer Group specializing in assisting the United States Naval Academy community and other select clientele.

    Grant is a Bay Area native, being born and raised in Mountain View. He is a graduate of Bellarmine College Preparatory and the great class of 2017 from the United States Naval Academy. During his time at the Naval Academy, Grant was a cyber operations major and a four year member of the basketball team. He then commissioned into the Cryptologic Warfare Community and served in support of Submarine Operations.

    Due to his experience, he brings an expertise on real estate for military members and veterans, including the use of the VA loan. He is licensed in both California and Texas.

    He is the founder of the non-profit 501C3 Academy Insider and host of the Academy Insider podcast.

    The mission of Academy Insider is to guide, serve, and support Midshipmen, future Midshipmen, and their families.


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    54 mins
  • #006 Monterey: What Can I Afford PCSing to Monterey?
    Apr 23 2024

    Navigating Real Estate Affordability for Military Officers: Insights for PCSing to Monterey with JD Kameen

    Host: Grant Vermeer

    The USNA Property Network Podcast, sponsored by the Vermeer Group, provides educational content about neighborhoods around military bases for Navy and Marine Corps officers planning a Permanent Change of Station (PCS).

    This episode features a conversation with JD Kameen '15, a Naval Academy graduate, former United States Marine, and the head of Naval lending at You Mortgage, discussing how military officers can navigate buying a home in the Monterey area, focusing on loan qualifications based on pay grade, BAH, and other financial considerations. The podcast aims to assist listeners in their PCS preparation to Monterey by offering insights into the real estate market, loan application process, and the benefits of homeownership for military personnel.

    00:00 Welcome to the USNA Property Network Podcast
    00:58 Introducing JD: From Military to Real Estate
    02:02 JD's Journey: Military Challenges and Transition to Real Estate
    04:55 The Birth of the USNA Property Network
    05:34 Understanding Home Buying for Military Personnel
    07:22 Navigating the Monterey Real Estate Market
    18:57 Insights on Home Buying and VA Loans
    24:12 Closing Thoughts and Appreciation


    Connect with your host Grant Vermeer on Linkedin or email him at grant@thevermeergroup.com.

    The USNA Property Network Podcast is powered by sponsorship from The Vermeer Group specializing in assisting the United States Naval Academy community and other select clientele.

    Grant is a Bay Area native, being born and raised in Mountain View. He is a graduate of Bellarmine College Preparatory and the great class of 2017 from the United States Naval Academy. During his time at the Naval Academy, Grant was a cyber operations major and a four year member of the basketball team. He then commissioned into the Cryptologic Warfare Community and served in support of Submarine Operations.

    Due to his experience, he brings an expertise on real estate for military members and veterans, including the use of the VA loan. He is licensed in both California and Texas.

    He is the founder of the non-profit 501C3 Academy Insider and host of the Academy Insider podcast.

    The mission of Academy Insider is to guide, serve, and support Midshipmen, future Midshipmen, and their families.


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    27 mins
  • #005 - Monterey: Living in Marina while PCSing to NPS Monterey with Dishan Romine
    Apr 23 2024

    This episode features a conversation with Dishan Romine, a former Navy football player and Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) student, on the Naval Academy Property Network podcast. Dyson shares his military career journey, from his time as a running back at the Naval Academy to his current studies in operations research at NPS. He discusses his initial military role in surface warfare and subsequent transition into the human resources community.

    Dyson also dives into the challenges and strategies of finding housing in Monterey, his experience living in the Dunes community of Marina versus downtown Monterey, and the unique aspects of buying a home as a military member.

    Additionally, he provides insights into the rigorous academic schedule at NPS, the competitive housing market in Monterey, and the benefits of living in Marina, including community amenities and proximity to various attractions. The episode concludes with personal recommendations for those moving to the area, emphasizing the importance of preparedness for Monterey's unique climate and lifestyle.

    Any questions about real estate and living in the location you are PCSing in the Navy and Marine Corps and your host Grant will help you out and direct you to the best information.

    Connect with Grant Vermeer on Linkedin or email him at grant@thevermeergroup.com.

    The USNA Property Network Podcast is powered by sponsorship from The Vermeer Group specializing in assisting the United States Naval Academy community and other select clientele.


    Connect with your host Grant Vermeer on Linkedin or email him at grant@thevermeergroup.com.

    The USNA Property Network Podcast is powered by sponsorship from The Vermeer Group specializing in assisting the United States Naval Academy community and other select clientele.

    Grant is a Bay Area native, being born and raised in Mountain View. He is a graduate of Bellarmine College Preparatory and the great class of 2017 from the United States Naval Academy. During his time at the Naval Academy, Grant was a cyber operations major and a four year member of the basketball team. He then commissioned into the Cryptologic Warfare Community and served in support of Submarine Operations.

    Due to his experience, he brings an expertise on real estate for military members and veterans, including the use of the VA loan. He is licensed in both California and Texas.

    He is the founder of the non-profit 501C3 Academy Insider and host of the Academy Insider podcast.

    The mission of Academy Insider is to guide, serve, and support Midshipmen, future Midshipmen, and their families.


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    30 mins
  • #004 Monterey: Living in Seaside when you PCS to NPS Monterey, CA
    Apr 23 2024

    Navigating Real Estate and PCS Moves in Monterey with Sean Sullivan

    The USNA Property Network Podcast

    Host: Grant Vermeer

    In this episode of the USNA Property Network podcast, powered by The Vermeer Group, we explore the intricacies of PCS moves to the Monterey Peninsula for military personnel. The podcast features guest Sean Sullivan, a Marine Corps officer and electrical engineering master's student at MPS, who shares his personal experience and insights on finding a home in Seaside, California.

    Topics discussed include the real estate investment thought process, selecting a neighborhood based on proximity to the Naval Postgraduate School and lifestyle preferences, and the benefits and challenges of buying vs. renting.

    Sean highlights the importance of considering long-term real estate opportunities, the potential for short-term rentals in Seaside, and offers practical moving tips.

    The conversation also delves into enjoying the natural beauty and attractions of the Monterey area, while also acknowledging the realities and downsides of living in such a sought-after location.

    00:00 Welcome to the USNA Property Network Podcast!

    00:56 Introducing Sean Sullivan: A Marine Corps Officer's Real Estate Journey in Monterey

    01:52 Sean's Military Background and Journey to Monterey

    02:55 The Academic Life at Naval Postgraduate School

    05:23 Choosing Seaside, CA: A Deep Dive into Real Estate Decisions

    14:16 The Benefits of House Hacking and Having a Roommate

    19:22 Unlocking the Potential of Short-Term Rentals

    19:34 Navigating Licenses for Rental Properties

    20:24 The Financial Upside of Short-Term Rentals in Seaside

    21:01 Seaside's Development and Real Estate Appeal

    22:28 The Unique Market Opportunity for Short-Term Rentals

    24:03 Exploring the Beauty of Seaside and Beyond

    28:29 Practical Considerations and Downsides of Living in Seaside

    33:43 Final Thoughts and Advice for Newcomers to Monterey





    Connect with your host Grant Vermeer on Linkedin or email him at grant@thevermeergroup.com.

    The USNA Property Network Podcast is powered by sponsorship from The Vermeer Group specializing in assisting the United States Naval Academy community and other select clientele.

    Grant is a Bay Area native, being born and raised in Mountain View. He is a graduate of Bellarmine College Preparatory and the great class of 2017 from the United States Naval Academy. During his time at the Naval Academy, Grant was a cyber operations major and a four year member of the basketball team. He then commissioned into the Cryptologic Warfare Community and served in support of Submarine Operations.

    Due to his experience, he brings an expertise on real estate for military members and veterans, including the use of the VA loan. He is licensed in both California and Texas.

    He is the founder of the non-profit 501C3 Academy Insider and host of the Academy Insider podcast.

    The mission of Academy Insider is to guide, serve, and support Midshipmen, future Midshipmen, and their families.


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    38 mins
  • #003 Monterey: Living in the City of Monterey Proper with Allyson Franchi '16
    Apr 23 2024

    Living in the City of Monterey Proper with Allyson Franchi

    Host: Grant Vermeer

    This episode of the USNA Property Network podcast, sponsored by the Vermeer Group, features a conversation with Allison Franschi, a Naval Academy graduate and human resources officer, about her experiences moving to and living in Monterey, California, for a master's program at the Naval Postgraduate School. Topics discussed include the local real estate market, rental experiences, the benefits of living in the Monterey area such as proximity to scenic locations, outdoor activities, and the overall lifestyle.

    Additionally, the podcast provides insights into the challenges of finding housing, the older and sometimes smaller living spaces available, and tips for military officers PCSing to Monterey. Allison also shares her favorite local spots and the importance of taking advantage of the unique living experience Monterey offers.

    00:00 Introduction to the USNA Property Network Podcast

    00:58 Exploring Monterey: Insights from a Naval Officer

    02:20 The Academic Life in Monterey

    04:34 Choosing the Right Neighborhood in Monterey

    08:11 Living the Monterey Lifestyle: Pros and Cons

    10:52 Adventures and Excursions Around Monterey

    13:29 Monterey's Hidden Gems: Wineries, Bakeries, and Breweries

    15:19 Renting in Monterey: A Personal Experience

    18:59 Final Thoughts and Recommendations for PCS to Monterey


    Connect with your host Grant Vermeer on Linkedin or email him at grant@thevermeergroup.com.

    The USNA Property Network Podcast is powered by sponsorship from The Vermeer Group specializing in assisting the United States Naval Academy community and other select clientele.

    Grant is a Bay Area native, being born and raised in Mountain View. He is a graduate of Bellarmine College Preparatory and the great class of 2017 from the United States Naval Academy. During his time at the Naval Academy, Grant was a cyber operations major and a four year member of the basketball team. He then commissioned into the Cryptologic Warfare Community and served in support of Submarine Operations.

    Due to his experience, he brings an expertise on real estate for military members and veterans, including the use of the VA loan. He is licensed in both California and Texas.

    He is the founder of the non-profit 501C3 Academy Insider and host of the Academy Insider podcast.

    The mission of Academy Insider is to guide, serve, and support Midshipmen, future Midshipmen, and their families.


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    22 mins
  • #002 Monterey: Living in Pacific Grove While at the Naval Postgraduate School with Kevin Alter '15, USMC
    Apr 23 2024

    Exploring Pacific Grove and Monterey Living for Military PCS Moves

    In this episode of the USNA Property Network podcast, sponsored by The Vermeer Group, host Grant Vermeer and guest Kevin Alter '15, USMC, both Naval Academy alumni, discuss the experience of living in Pacific Grove, California, near the Naval Postgraduate School and Defense Language Institute.

    They cover the importance of understanding local neighborhoods for military personnel planning Permanent Change of Station (PCS) moves. Kevin shares insights into the small-town charm of Pacific Grove, the process of finding housing, commuting to NPS, and the overall lifestyle benefits, including the local dining scene and proximity to natural attractions. The conversation also includes tips for families and singles on choosing locations in Monterey County based on lifestyle preferences.

    00:00 Introduction to the USNA Property Network Podcast

    00:57 Spotlight on Pacific Grove: A Hidden Gem Near Monterey

    01:10 Guest Insights: Kevin Alter Shares His Monterey Experience

    01:39 Exploring Monterey: Lifestyle, Education, and Housing

    11:07 The Charm of Pacific Grove: A Resident's Perspective

    17:54 Monterey County Adventures: From Local Hikes to Wine Country

    22:25 Unveiling Hidden Gems: Exclusive Recommendations

    26:03 Navigating Monterey County: Tips for Newcomers

    28:11 Closing Thoughts and Contact Information


    Connect with your host Grant Vermeer on Linkedin or email him at grant@thevermeergroup.com.

    The USNA Property Network Podcast is powered by sponsorship from The Vermeer Group specializing in assisting the United States Naval Academy community and other select clientele.

    Grant is a Bay Area native, being born and raised in Mountain View. He is a graduate of Bellarmine College Preparatory and the great class of 2017 from the United States Naval Academy. During his time at the Naval Academy, Grant was a cyber operations major and a four year member of the basketball team. He then commissioned into the Cryptologic Warfare Community and served in support of Submarine Operations.

    Due to his experience, he brings an expertise on real estate for military members and veterans, including the use of the VA loan. He is licensed in both California and Texas.

    He is the founder of the non-profit 501C3 Academy Insider and host of the Academy Insider podcast.

    The mission of Academy Insider is to guide, serve, and support Midshipmen, future Midshipmen, and their families.


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    29 mins