Do you have any money to put down? VA loans often do not have the best interest rates and there are fees (which vary based on many factors) so while you are saving on PMI, you may end up spending nearly as much (or more) on fees. That's what our research turned up at least. We ended up going with a conventional loan.
So I guess my tip is to do your research and consider non-VA options as well.
Also, you may be hard pressed to find much in SoCal for $300k, unless you live waaaay far out. There are probably some exceptions, but that's definitely well below the average norm, even for non-McMansions. Maybe you've already done the research, but if not, start managing those expectations now. Many areas of SoCal appear on lists of least affordable housing, even sometimes when compared to places like NYC or SF. Houses are super expenses, and wages not super high. Since you aren't heading there for a great job, can you perhaps consider another area?