By Celia Ruiz, Regional Director – South Florida, Compass Military Division

Last Thursday, May 29, the community at U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) in Doral, Florida came together for an unforgettable day of food, fun, and connection at the Roast & Reel: Pig Roast & Fishing Competition 🎣🔥. I had the honor of sponsoring this amazing event on behalf of the Compass Military Division and my amazing collie Rosa E Napolitano, and let me tell you—it was more than just a cookout and casting lines.

Held just outside the Fitness Center and West Pond, the event was packed with energy as service members, civilian personnel, and families joined for some friendly competition and well-earned camaraderie. Whether you came for the fishing (with prizes for biggest, smallest, and most fish 🐟), the Pig Roast Bowl Series: Military Edition, or the free lunch at 12:30 PM—you felt the strength of this community in every detail.

But beyond the food and fun, there’s something even more important I want to share: supporting our military in building long-term wealth through homeownership—especially using the VA loan benefit.

🏡 A Mission That Doesn’t End in Uniform

As the Regional Director for the Compass Military Division in South Florida, and a proud Marine spouse, I’ve made it my life’s work to support our heroes—not just during their service, but in every stage of life, including when they’re ready to plant roots and invest in their future.

You serve our country. You deserve a real estate agent who serves you—with the same honor, integrity, and commitment.

🔍 Finding a Real Estate Agent That Understands Military Life

Let’s be honest—not all agents understand the unique needs of military buyers. PCS orders, VA paperwork, base access, and tight timelines require experience and sensitivity. You need someone who gets it.

Here's what makes our Compass Military Division different:

• 🎖 Many of us are military spouses, veterans, or family members
• 📍 We know the local South Florida market, especially VA-friendly areas in Miami-Dade, Broward, Homestead, and throughout the country
• 🛠 We understand the VA loan process inside and out
• 🤝 We’ve partnered with lenders, title companies, and inspectors who specialize in military transactions

When you choose an agent who truly cares about military families, you're not just buying a house—you’re gaining a teammate who understands your mission.

💬 Making an Offer with a VA Loan: What You Need to Know

The VA loan is one of the most valuable benefits of your service, but it’s often misunderstood—even by agents or sellers. That’s why it's so important to work with professionals who know how to navigate it.

Here’s how we help:

• 📝 Craft strong offers that align with VA loan terms and still stand out in a competitive market
• 🏡 Work with VA-approved condos (many in Doral, Kendall, Pembroke Pines)
• 💵 Help negotiate closing cost credits and reduce out-of-pocket expenses
• 🧾 Ensure homes meet VA Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs) before appraisal
• 📅 Manage fast closings around PCS timelines

Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to use your benefit again, our goal is to make the process smooth, empowering, and fully optimized for your needs.

📢 Missed Roast & Reel? Join One of Our Upcoming Seminars!

While Roast & Reel was a hit, it was just one of the ways we engage our military community. I personally host VA Home Buying Seminars throughout South Florida—informative, no-pressure events designed specifically for:

• Active duty military
• Reservists & National Guard
• Veterans & retirees
• Spouses and military families

📚 Topics we cover:

• How to get pre-approved with a VA lender
• Understanding entitlements and Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
• Buying a multi-family or investment property with a VA loan
• Tips to build long-term equity and avoid common mistakes

📍 Locations: Shoma Bazzar in Doral or by Google Met 🎟️ These seminars are free and open to all branches—just bring your questions and curiosity!

Interested in attending? Just shoot me a message and I’ll send you the next date and location.

🌴 Why South Florida Is Ideal for VA Homebuyers

South Florida has so much to offer—not just warm weather and beautiful beaches, but also a growing network of VA-eligible homes, strong community support, and access to SOUTHCOM, Homestead ARB, and Naval Ops Support in Miami.

Why veterans and active-duty buyers love South Florida:

• 🏡 Plenty of VA-approved condos and townhomes
• 🏖 Beach lifestyle with easy access to Biscayne Bay, South Beach, and the Keys
• 🧾 Property tax exemptions for disabled veterans
• 🏀 Catch a game from the Miami Heat, Marlins, or Inter Miami CF
• 🌆 Diverse neighborhoods from Doral to Pembroke Pines, Coral Gables, and beyond

We know this market, and we know how to make it work for you.

📲 Ready to Talk About Buying, Selling, or Investing?

If you're ready to use your VA loan or want to learn more about your options, I’m here to guide you.

Whether you’re… ✅ Active duty and PCSing to South Florida ✅ A DoD civilian ready to buy your first home ✅ A veteran interested in using your benefits again ✅ Or simply unsure where to start…

I’ve got your six.

📞 Let’s Connect Today:

📍 Celia Ruiz 📌 Regional Director – Compass Military Division, South Florida 📧 celia@morethanthesale.com 📲 305.965.1882📱 Follow me on Instagram @celiaruiz.realtor for tips, listings & event invites!

🇺🇸 Thank You, SOUTHCOM!

Thank you again to everyone who came out to Roast & Reel—your laughter, your stories, and your service made it a day to remember. I’m honored to serve this community, and I look forward to helping you achieve the dream of homeownership, build wealth, and secure your future—right here in South Florida.

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🎣🏠💙 Because when we support our heroes at home, everyone wins.