Naval Base Kitsap PCS Guide
Moving to Naval Base Kitsap?
A homebuying guide for military families making their move to Kitsap County
A military move comes with a lot of decisions. Where should you live? What will your monthly payment look like? Can you use your VA home loan benefit? And can you get pre-approved before you arrive?
Whether you’re relocating from San Diego with the USS Abraham Lincoln or receiving orders to Naval Base Kitsap from another duty station, I’m here to help you understand your options and make a plan that works for you and your family.
Welcome to Kitsap County
Kitsap County is home to beautiful waterfront communities, mountain views, outdoor recreation and a strong military community. It also offers a variety of places to live, from established neighborhoods near Bremerton to communities around Silverdale, Poulsbo and Port Orchard.
I grew up in Central Kitsap and have spent more than 28 years helping people understand their home financing options. As an independent mortgage broker with Vantage Mortgage Brokers, I help clients compare loan options and develop a plan based on their goals, not just the maximum amount they may qualify to borrow.
If you’re moving to the area, I can help you understand the financing side of your move before you arrive.
Can I get pre-approved before I move?
Yes. You can start the pre-approval process while you’re still at your current duty station.
We can meet by phone or video to discuss your plans, review your financing options and identify the documents needed for your situation.
Together, we can work through:
- Your comfortable monthly payment and estimated purchase price range
- Your VA loan eligibility and available entitlement
- Estimated closing costs and funds needed to purchase
- What to consider if you already own a home
- The steps needed to complete your pre-approval
Once the necessary review is complete, I can provide a pre-approval letter when appropriate so you’re ready to make an offer when you find the right home.
Understanding your VA home loan benefit
A VA loan can be a valuable benefit for eligible service members, veterans and surviving spouses. Depending on your eligibility and the transaction, benefits may include:
- No down payment in many situations
- No monthly private mortgage insurance
- Competitive financing options
- The ability to use your VA home loan benefit more than once
A VA loan still has eligibility, credit, income and property requirements. Closing costs and a VA funding fee may apply, although some borrowers are exempt from the funding fee.
I’ll help you understand how the VA loan works and provide a detailed comparison so you can make an informed decision.
Already have a VA loan? You may be able to use your benefit again.
If you currently own a home with a VA loan, you may still be able to use your VA benefit to purchase another home in Kitsap County.
We can review your remaining entitlement, your plans for your current home and whether a down payment would be needed for your next purchase. If you’re planning to sell, we can also discuss how paying off your existing VA loan and restoring entitlement may fit into your timeline.
Every situation is different, so I’ll help you work through the numbers before you decide what to do.
What should I plan for beyond the monthly payment?
A VA loan with no down payment doesn’t necessarily mean there are no costs to purchase a home.
You may need to plan for closing costs, prepaid property taxes and insurance, inspections, moving expenses and other items. Depending on the transaction, seller concessions or lender credits may help cover some eligible costs.
I provide a detailed cost analysis so you can compare the estimated monthly payment and cash needed to close before deciding what works for you.
Where should I live near Naval Base Kitsap?
The right location depends on where you report, your work schedule, your budget and your family’s priorities. Communities to consider include:
- BremertonClose to Naval Base Kitsap-Bremerton, with established neighborhoods, waterfront areas and ferry access to Seattle.Explore Bremerton
- SilverdaleCentrally located with shopping, medical services, parks and access to several Kitsap communities.Explore Silverdale
- Port OrchardLocated across Sinclair Inlet from Bremerton, with a waterfront downtown and a variety of surrounding neighborhoods.Explore Port Orchard
- PoulsboA waterfront community with a historic downtown, local shops and access to outdoor recreation.Explore Poulsbo
Commute times and routes can vary, so it’s worth exploring different areas before deciding where you feel most at home.
If you need help finding a local real estate agent, let me know. I’m happy to help you connect with someone who fits your needs.
Should I buy or rent?
Buying isn’t automatically the right decision for every family, especially when a military move involves uncertainty.
Your expected time in the area, monthly budget, savings, future plans and comfort level all matter. I’m happy to help you understand the numbers so you can compare your options and decide what makes sense.
For information about military housing and other relocation resources, you can also contact the Naval Base Kitsap Housing Service Center and Fleet & Family Support Center.
Let’s make a plan before you arrive
Whether you’re ready to get pre-approved or simply have questions about your upcoming move, I’m here to help.
Let’s talk about your goals, review your options and put together a plan that makes sense for you and your family.
Frank Ellerbroek | NMLS #128726
Vantage Mortgage Brokers | NMLS #35986
Serving Washington, Oregon, and Idaho
Loan approval is subject to eligibility, credit, income, property and lender requirements. This page is an independent resource and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Navy or the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Equal Housing Opportunity. Pre-approval is conditional and is not a commitment to lend. Rates, terms, and programs are subject to change. Licensing and disclosures.