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Approved BGRS Military Realtors

As Approved Military Relocation Realtors we understand that the process of moving can be particularly challenging for military families. OurBGRS-Relocation-Realtor dedicated Local Experts provide a range of tailored solutions designed to address your unique relocation needs. Our goal is to facilitate connections with Approved BGRS realtors who specialize in military moves and offer essential insights into the best neighborhoods, the best schools and areas of employment while helping you adapt quickly to your new environment. We are here to support you at every step of your relocation, striving to ensure a smooth and efficient transition. With us, your comfort and peace of mind are our number one priority as you embark on this new chapter in your career.

Canadian Military & RCMP Relocation Guide

Navigating a military relocation can feel like embarking on an uncharted journey, but with our BGRS approved real estate agents by your side, you’re not alone. These seasoned professionals bring unparalleled expertise and a deep understanding of the intricacies involved in military moves, ensuring that every step of your transition is managed with care and precision. They are committed to providing personalized support, adeptly handling everything from identifying the perfect neighborhood that meets your family’s needs to streamlining the paperwork required for a smooth relocation process. With their guidance, you can focus on what truly matters: settling into your new home and embracing the exciting opportunities that lie ahead. Trust our network of military relocation specialists to turn your move into a seamless and rewarding experience, helping you feel at home from day one.

Purpose of Approved BGRS Military Realtors

To provide their expertise in the implementation of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) and RCMP relocation process, focusing on the role of Brookfield Global Relocation Services (BGRS) and key aspects of the Integrated Relocation Program (IRP).

1.  Integrated Relocation Program (IRP) & BGRS:

Centralized Relocation: The CAF and RCMP relocation process is primarily managed through the IRP, currently contracted to BGRS (formerly Brookfield GRS). BGRS acts as the central point of contact for members and provides online tools, support services and access to approved vendors.
Digital Process: A significant shift has moved the relocation process to a digital platform through the BGRS website and mobile app. Members are expected to use these for most of the relocation process.
BGRS Support: While in-person representatives are no longer available on bases, BGRS provides support through online resources, a call center (8 am – 8 pm Eastern time), and assigned agents. They aim to offer professional advice, information, and assistance to maximize the benefits available under the CAF Relocation Directive.

Contact BGRS   1-844-447-5520: This is the BGRS Canadian Forces phone number.

“BGRS aims to offer support, information, and aid to military personnel throughout their House Hunting Trip (HHT) process.”

2.  Importance of BGRS-Approved Realtors:

Expertise: BGRS-approved realtors are essential because they possess in-depth knowledge of the IRP, CAF Relocation Directive, and the specific requirements of military and RCMP moves. They are familiar with timelines, allowances and regulations.

Streamlined Process: Using an approved realtor helps ensure a smooth and efficient relocation. They are familiar with paperwork and are better positioned to ensure eligible expenses are maximized.

Simplified Reimbursement: They understand the financial guidelines of the IRP, which simplifies the documentation required for reimbursements and reduces errors that could lead to non-reimbursable expenses.

Market Knowledge: They have experience with military moves, understand time constraints, base locations and neighbourhoods popular with military families.

Time Saving: These realtors can quickly locate suitable homes within a given area and budget.

Choose BGRS Approved Realtors that are familiar with Military IRP and Veteran moves.

1.  Relocation Process – Member Responsibilities:

  • Posting Message: The process starts when a member receives their Posting Message.Approved-BGRS-Military-Realtor
  • Pre-Registration: Members must register online at the BGRS website (bgrsguide.bgrs.ca) or via the mobile app, following the instructions provided on their Posting Message. “You can Pre-register once you receive your posting message, proceed to http://www.irp-pri.com and pre-register”.
  • Preliminary Relocation Assessment (PRA): The first step in the online platform.
  • Planning Session: After registration, members can book a planning session with a BGRS agent to discuss their specific situation. Booking the first session right away is recommended to avoid delays.
  • Banking Information: Members must enter their banking information in their BGRS profile for Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) of relocation funds.
  • Claim Submission: Members are responsible for submitting receipts and expense claims through the online portal.
  • Task Completion: Members are responsible for completing the personalized relocation tasks that are generated by BGRS.
  • HG&E Form: Members are responsible for completing and submitting forms for the movement of their household goods and effects.
  • “All our Realtors are Authorized Military Relocation experts who are dedicated to putting their knowledge of DND requirements to ensure your next posting as “STRESS FREE” as possible.”

2. BGRS Responsibilities:

  • Facilitation: BGRS is responsible for facilitating the relocation experience.
  • Clarification: They are responsible for clarifying the process and the Relocation Directive.
  • Support: BGRS provides bilingual agents to assist members.
  • Prioritization: They are responsible for generating personalized tasks to help prioritize the relocation.
  • Funding: BGRS will estimate funds, create a move budget and advance funds as requested by the member. They also review expenses and receipts.
  • Travel: They arrange commercial travel through Global Business Travel (GBT)
  • “BGRS can offer our services once official authorization from your employer has been received. Answers to specific questions regarding benefits and entitlements are based on the information contained in that authorization.”

3.   Key Relocation Benefits:

  • House Hunting Trip (HHT): A 5-day, 5-night trip is available for members to secure accommodation at their new post, plus two days for travel. Expenses for the HHT (lodging and a daily meal allowance) are covered under the IRP. “During the HHT, CAF Members receive a reimbursement based on the meal entitlement.”
  • Interim Lodgings, Meals and Miscellaneous (ILM&M): Benefits that cover costs when a member’s HG&E has been moved. This includes meals, lodging and a miscellaneous allowance.
  • Household Goods and Effects (HG&E) Shipment: The CAF arranges and pays for the shipment and storage of HG&E. BGRS assists with completing the required paperwork for the move.
  • Movement Grant: A $650 non-accountable allowance to offset minor losses during the move.
  • Travel by PMV: Members may be authorized to travel by personal vehicle and are paid a kilometric allowance as well as lodging and meals. “CAF Members authorized to use a Private Motor Vehicle (PMV) or motorcycle and to tow a trailer are paid a kilometric allowance.”
  • Third Party Service Providers (TPSPs): The BGRS directory includes approved providers such as appraisers, home inspectors, lawyers and realtors. Using approved providers ensures compliance and reimbursement.
  • Relocation Directive: This is a key document and is referenced throughout the process. Members are expected to read and understand it. The official document can be found at http://www.forces.gc.ca/en/about-policies-standards-benefits-relocation/toc-byyear.page

1.  Financial Aspects:

  • Core Funding Account: The CAF RP has a core funding account for direct reimbursement of expenses considered essential to a relocation.
  • Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT): Funds are distributed to members via EFT after requesting an advance or making a claim. “Once an advance of funds is approved by BGRS, it takes approximately 7 days for the funds to be received in the CAF Member’s bank account.”
  • Receipts: Members must keep all receipts, which can be uploaded to their electronic file. (Exceptions are for daily allowances like meals). “All expenses are required to have a receipt attached in order to be submitted for reimbursement (as per article 2.9.04) unless the CAF Relocation Directive states receipts for a specific entitlement are unnecessary.”
  • Temporary Dual Residence Assistance (TDRA): In some cases, if a member owns a home and must maintain it while living in their new location, they are eligible for TDRA which covers interest, property tax, utilities, insurance and property maintenance.

2.  Potential Challenges:

  • Digital Shift: The shift to a fully digital process may be challenging for some members.
  • New BGRS Processes: The change from Brookfield GRS to BGRS may present challenges.
  • Absence of On-Base Reps: The lack of in-person representatives may require members to be more proactive in seeking information.
  • Delays: Delays in processing can happen. For instance, it can take up to 5 business days for BGRS to receive an authorization file and approximately 7 days for funds to be received in an account after they are approved.

 

 

Important Actions for Relocating Members:

  • Review Posting Message: Carefully review the posting message for instructions.
  • Register Immediately: As soon as the posting message is received, register with BGRS at the designated website or app.
  • Complete PRA: Complete the Preliminary Relocation Assessment online.
  • Book Planning Session: Book the first planning session promptly.
  • Review CAF Relocation Directive: Familiarize yourself with the CAF Relocation Directive.
  • Use BGRS-Approved Realtors: Select a BGRS-approved realtor from the provided directory.
  • Keep Receipts: Maintain all receipts for expenses.
  • Plan Ahead: Coordinate disposal/acquisition of residence to align with the Change of Strength date for a smoother move.

Conclusion:

The CAF and RCMP relocation process is comprehensive but requires diligent adherence to the procedures outlined by the IRP and BGRS. Understanding the process, working with approved professionals, and leveraging the online tools can contribute to a more seamless relocation experience. This system can be overwhelming but the goal is to make moves easier and less stressful for members and their families.

This briefing document should provide a solid foundation for understanding the complex landscape of military and RCMP relocations.  Your Approved BGRS Realtor can help understand and meet all the requirements pertaining to a relocating posting.