I am a native Californian. I grew up in Huntington Beach and moved to San Clemente 37 years ago to raise my family.
I was named by the Orange Country Register as one of the 125 Most Influential People in Orange County in 2021 for my work with USA Surfing to help earn the USA the world's first Gold Medal in Women's Surfing. I had the honor of greeting Gold Medalist Carissa Moore at the water's edge and chairing her up the beach with Coach Brett Simpson.
I began my career as one of the youngest California State licensed contractors at 19 years old and ran Green Scene Landscaping until I was 25 Years old. I then transitioned into publishing and media, running my own successful publishers' representative firm for 25 years, selling major advertising programs to Michael Dell of Dell Computer, Larry Ellison of Oracle and Steve Jobs when he started NeXt Computer.
I am a lifelong surfer and began volunteering for surfing organizations in 2005 when my daughter became interested in competing. I helped coach the Shorecliffs Middle School Surf Team to two NSSA National Championships in 2005 and 2006. I volunteered with the Western Surfing Association from 2005 to 2020 as a board member helping to turn the organization around to being the largest amateur surfing association in the country. I started the Prime Surf Series 2008 as a way to help prepare our best young surfers for success in the professional ranks. The series was instrumental in returning USA surfers to international dominance, especially the women.
I served as Executive Director of Surfing America from 2011 to 2017. I started a new non-profit, USA Surfing, in 2017 and applied for and received United States Olympic Committee recognition as the National Governing Body of Surfing in the United States. I was named CEO of USA Surfing and began preparations for our debut in the 2020 (2021) Tokyo Olympics. This was extremely complicated as we had to negotiate new COVID protocols. Our event site was in a remote area of Japan and I found the best accommodations for our surfers and outfitted our house with a commercial kitchen and recovery/training center and also worked out host city agreements that allowed us to train in the ocean and new wave pool in Makinohara. We came out of the Olympics with Women's Gold and tied for first with Brazil as a team. Our social media engagement was ranked 4th out of all Summer sports. Our accommodations for the Olympics were so good they were featured in Architectural Digest
I have been investing in Real Estate since I bought our first home in 1980. Over the years I have bought a home using a lease option, rehabbed a 1913 Craftsman Bungalow, bought land and built a new home, remodeled several homes, added land to a lot through a lot line adjustment, built accessory buildings and Accessory Dwelling Units, dealt with probate and am now living in a generational property. I have a life full of real estate experience through all kinds of economic conditions and real estate markets. My construction background allows me to help my clients realize what is possible with a property. What I bring to you is firsthand knowledge of most of the neighborhoods in beautiful San Clemente, a work ethic second to none, a fierce tenacity, and the ability to seek unique solutions to bring wins to all parties.
I look forward to going to Olympic efforts for you to help you sell your home or find your dream home, and have fun in the process!
Designations
Fine Homes and Estates Specialist
Client Reviews (8)
5.0 out of 5
(5)
Seller Review
Tom R, Barrington IL
Greg was very communicative thoughout the process. He provided care and services beyond just marketing the property. He helped with donating and moving additional furniture from the sale. I felt he acted more than "just the realtor"
8 days ago
Buyer Review
Ming Ye, Orange County, CA
Greg has been an outstanding realtor. Over the years, he has helped me not only find the perfect home within my budget, but also help me find reliable renters for my property. His professionalism, expertise, and patience have always impressed me. Greg's friendly and approachable nature makes working with him a true pleasure. He genuinely listens to your needs and and works hard to find the perfect fit. I look forward to continuing to work with him and wholeheartedly recommend him.
4 months ago
Seller Review
Seth & Christiane Honeycutt, San Juan Capistrano, CA
Greg is an exceptional real estate agent who truly goes above and beyond. From the very beginning, his tenacious, can-do attitude and unwavering confidence put us at ease. Greg is incredibly knowledgeable and took the time to understand every detail of our needs and expectations. His meticulous attention to detail and proactive approach ensured we felt informed, supported, and confident throughout the entire process.
What truly sets Greg apart is his very personal approach and commitment to success. He doesn’t just go the extra mile; he goes well beyond it. He is a friend you can count on.
No question was too small, no challenge too big. His dedication, expertise, and personal investment in achieving the best outcome for us were clear every step of the way.
We will recommend him again and again to anyone, anytime!
He is a true professional and an outstanding advocate to have in your corner.
We are very grateful to you Greg, Thank You!!
4 months ago
Buyer Review
Lauren Fedman, Irvine, CA
We had an incredible experience working with Greg Cruse. From start to finsih, h went above and beyond - always available to answer questions, offer advice, adn advocate for us. His genuine care made the process smooth and stress-free. We couldn't have asked for a better agent!
