Military & RCMP Relocation

During the APS, military members and their families face the task of finding suitable housing in their new posting location while navigating tight timelines and logistical complexities. As your trusted real estate professional, I specialize in assisting military families during this season of change. I am well-versed in the specific needs and requirements of military relocations, allowing me to streamline the process and alleviate the stress often associated with finding a new home.

With a comprehensive knowledge of the housing market in Winnipeg and surrounding areas, I can help you explore various neighborhoods, identify suitable properties, and negotiate favorable terms. I understand the importance of proximity to military bases, schools, amenities, and other factors that impact the daily lives of military families. Whether you are looking to rent or buy a home, I will work closely with you to find the perfect fit for your unique needs and preferences.

Beyond assisting with the physical aspects of your relocation, I am also well-connected within the military community. I can provide you with valuable resources, connect you to local support networks, and offer insights into the local area to help you settle in smoothly. My goal is to ensure that you and your family feel supported, informed, and confident as you embark on this new chapter in your military journey.

With my expertise and personalized approach, you can trust that your APS relocation will be handled with the utmost care and professionalism. Together, we will navigate the complexities of the Canadian Forces APS, making the transition as seamless as possible, and ensuring that you find a place you can truly call home. Contact me today to get started and let's make your APS relocation a positive and successful experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I meet with someone at BGRS on Base to discuss my family's future? No. As of December 1, 2017, BGRS no longer provides in-person representatives at any base in Canada. Instead, they encourage the use of their BGRS App. After completing a few steps in the app, a BGRS Representative will be assigned to your file.
2. I've been officially posted! When do I register with BGRS? After receiving your Posting Message with your Change of Strength (COS) date, register online with BGRS. They will provide official authorization, specific checklists, and steps you need to take. You will also learn about your HHT benefits and entitlements.
3. Why this BGRS FAQ? If you are on Military IRP with an upcoming HHT, you need to navigate BGRS effectively. After meeting with your Career Manager, you'll have an idea of the bases you may be posted to. Once you receive your official Posting Message, choose your Realtor and pre-register with BGRS. Use their mobile app to complete a Preliminary Relocation Assessment and book a Planning Session. Visit the Finances section to see your Move Budget and navigate other posting tools. Also, consider getting pre-approved for a mortgage to be ready for securing your home on HHT.
4. Is pre-registration the same as registration? Once your file is authorized, the system will match the information from your employer with your pre-registration and send your password and User ID via email. You can then complete the registration process.
5. How do I register with BGRS for my COS? If you have received your Posting Message and know your COS, you can proceed to register with BGRS. Detailed registration information is available on their website. Generally, within one business day, you will receive a Relocation Assistance Package called the "APS 22 Relocation Package," which includes important relocation, BGRS, and HHT information, and a Relocation Assistance Document (RAD) to help you navigate the next steps.
6. What’s next after I’ve registered and have the App? Navigating BGRS can be confusing, frustrating, and stressful. Important information is often only accessible through their App. With no BGRS Rep on Base, it creates more questions, especially for military personnel on their first COS. The BGRS App is improving, but it’s crucial to know your COS and sign up for the app. Once a Rep is assigned, the process becomes easier.
7. I would like even more detailed information on BGRS, my HHT, my entitlements, and more... There is a comprehensive government document available that covers topics such as Military HHT & DIT Benefits, Interim Lodgings, Meals & Misc Expenses (ILM&M), Sale and Purchase of a Residence, and Specific moves within Canada.
8. What is the BGRS Canadian Forces Phone Number? The hard-to-find BGRS phone number is 1-844-447-5520. Like most businesses today, they prefer to handle inquiries digitally.
9. Is there a BGRS Summary Book? Yes, there is a detailed relocation summary BGRS Guide Book available in PDF format.
10. I have further questions on HHT. On successful registration, a Brookfield Advisor will be assigned and will contact you within a few business days to discuss your relocation intentions and book your first Planning Session. To stay ahead of other buyers on your HHT, consider getting a mortgage pre-approval with a BGRS familiar Mortgage team.
11. I believe I am being posted, can I call BGRS with my questions? Officially, no, but yes. BGRS has hidden their phone numbers because their new mandate is to provide customer service only after:
    • You have received your Posting Message.
    • Your CAF Chain of Command has authorized the move.
    • You have created an account with BGRS. That said, access the “CAF Relocation Program Overview” presentation for more Q&A online.

I have my posting message but haven’t connected with my BGRS rep yet, can I still list my home? Yes. During the peak of Posting Season, some military members experience long waits in working with BGRS. You can list your home for sale or even sell your property before finalizing everything with your Brookfield rep. Our Realtor team can help you through this process.

Is BGRS pre-registration the same as the registration? Once your file has been authorized, the system will match the information from your employer with your pre-registration and send your password and User ID via email. You will then be able to complete the registration process.

How far ahead of my COS date should I plan my HHT? Ideally, plan your HHT a few months ahead. This allows sellers at your posted designation enough time to find their new home and opens up more options. Generally speaking, the closer your HHT is to your COS date, the better. Your HHT Realtor will help with the process.

Should I list and sell my current residence prior to booking an HHT? Ideally, ensure your home is sold (not pending) before contacting your BGRS Rep for your new HHT. Our local HHT Realtors can help you list your home as soon as possible. The more time you have between your HHT and your COS dates, the more properties will be available for you to consider.

Do I need permission from BGRS to list my home? No, but it is recommended that you liaise with BGRS as there may be specific capped ceiling rates and eligibility requirements that apply to home sale benefits. Ensure you communicate timelines so you aren’t excluded from eligibility for certain benefits.

What are TPSP or BGRS approved suppliers? Third-Party Service Providers (TPSP) and Brookfield Global Relocation Services (BGRS) approved Realtors are service suppliers who have registered with BGRS and provide specialized services such as real estate services, appraisals, property inspections, and lawyer services for your HHT across Canada.

Am I charged for my HHT, even if I don’t find a home? No, a military member who has taken an HHT and subsequently decides not to relocate will not be required to reimburse the cost of the HHT.

Can I book my own travel and moving company? Not exactly. BGRS is not authorized to reimburse travel you have booked and paid for yourself. Commercial travel via train and air must be facilitated through BGRS to American Express Travel once DND has approved the travel and supplied a Travel Authorization Number (TAN).

Mortgage wise, what is the DND Clause and should I get pre-approved? Yes, ideally you should get pre-approved before your HHT. Work with a mortgage broker or bank familiar with military needs and offers the DND Clause. We have a team of mortgage brokers who have worked with others just like you and are ready to share our knowledge, connections, and expertise with you. 

How does relocation funding work? CAF members add their banking information to their profile on the Member Secure Website. They must then request an advance or make a claim through BGRS to receive the funds. The money is then distributed through EFT. It is important for CAF members to request an advance of funds in anticipation of incurring expenses. Once an advance of funds is approved by BGRS, it takes approximately 7 business days (or less) for the funds to be sent.

What happens if I can’t sell my current residence? There are relocation benefits in place to assist with the financial burden of dual residency. Your advisor will discuss the temporary dual residence assistance benefits with you and review your options so you can decide which is best for you and your family. If your property is sitting vacant, it’s a good idea to have someone check on it for insurance purposes and peace of mind.

Can I submit more receipts even though I’ve done my final move claim? Yes, it's possible for CAF members to submit another claim for eligible relocation expenses as long as they are within CAF RP policy and meet the time limitation.