BGRS Military Relocation Realtor
Imagine you’re in the military or RCMP, and you get the news – you’re moving! That can be super stressful, right? Well, that’s where BGRS approved realtors come in. They’re like super helpful real estate agents who are also experts in military moves.
Think of them as your guide through the complicated world of military relocations. They’re not just any realtors; they’ve got special training and know all about the rules and
requirements for military families. They understand how important it is to make your move as easy as possible, so they work hard to help you find the perfect home. These realtors are authorized military relocation experts, dedicated to making your move as stress-free as possible.
These realtors have lots of local knowledge, so they can help you find the best neighborhood for you and your family. They’re also familiar with the BGRS system, which is a program designed to help military families move. They can help you with things like planning your house-hunting trip, finding a place to stay, and getting a mortgage. They can even connect you with other important people, like lawyers and home inspectors, to make the whole process smoother. They are listed with the Integrated Relocation Program (IRP), and are experts in their local area.
Basically, a BGRS approved realtor is like your personal moving assistant when you’re in the military or RCMP. They’re there to take some of the stress off your shoulders and make sure you find a great new home. Some of these realtors even have a special “Military Relocation Professional” title, which means they’re extra-skilled in helping military families move. They understand the planning stages of a military move, including screening for specific postings and ensuring compliance with requirements such as living within a certain radius of the base. They also are able to provide you with a relocation package.
BGRS – Frequently Asked Questions
Canadian Armed Forces Relocations: A Guide to the Integrated Relocation Program
1. What is BGRS and what role do they play in military relocations?
BGRS (formerly Brookfield Global Relocation Services) is the Canadian Armed Forces’ relocation partner. They provide a range of services to help military members and their
families move to new locations when required. This includes assistance with planning, budgeting, and arranging various aspects of the move, such as finding housing, managing expenses, and accessing support services. They also maintain a directory of approved real estate professionals familiar with the unique needs of military relocations.
2. What are some of the unique challenges faced by military families during relocations?
Military families often face several challenges during relocations. These include short notice and limited lead time, making it difficult to secure new housing quickly. Low housing inventory can force families to compromise on their preferences. There can be immense pressure to find a home fast, leading to rushed decisions. Selling their current home quickly can also be a challenge, potentially resulting in lower offers or the burden of double mortgage payments. Additionally, military relocations can bring emotional challenges, including children adjusting to new schools and the loss of community connections, plus spouses often have to find new employment.
3. What is a House Hunting Trip (HHT) and how can it help military families?
A House Hunting Trip (HHT) is a key component of a military relocation, designed to help personnel and their families secure housing in their new location. These authorized trips are typically five days long and allow families to travel to their new posting, explore different neighbourhoods, view properties, and make arrangements for their move. The goal of an HHT is to facilitate a smooth transition and help families find suitable housing efficiently.
4. What are the core relocation benefits offered to Canadian Armed Forces members?
The Canadian Armed Forces Relocation Directive (CAFRD) provides several benefits to help offset the costs associated with moving. Core relocation benefits cover housing-related costs such as real estate commissions, legal fees, early lease termination fees, home appraisals, inspections, and professional cleaning services. There are also custom benefits to cover expenses such as accommodation, meals, transportation, and shipping. Additionally, housing grants can provide up to $15,000 to help offset any losses on the sale of a home, and Temporary Dual Residence Assistance (TDRA) helps cover the cost of owning two properties if the home doesn’t sell prior to the move.
5. How can a qualified REALTOR® assist with a military relocation?
A qualified REALTOR® experienced with military relocations can significantly ease the process. They understand the complexities, timelines, and specific needs of military families. They can efficiently curate house hunting tours to maximize time, prioritize properties that fit the family’s needs and budget, connect them with reputable third-party providers, and guide them through each stage of the relocation. These REALTOR’s can also help navigate the Integrated Relocation Program (IRP) and ensure compliance with requirements like living within a specific radius of the base. Some REALTORs even earn the Military Relocation Professional designation.
6. What is the Integrated Relocation Program (IRP) and how does it relate to BGRS?
The Integrated Relocation Program (IRP) is the official program that manages the relocation of Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) and RCMP members. BGRS is the contracted service provider that delivers the services and supports outlined in the IRP directives. The IRP is designed to make moves as stress-free as possible and ensure military families have the resources they need when transferring to a new post.
7. How does the new BGRS system impact real estate commissions and the relocation process?
The new BGRS system, which is transitioning away from personnel contact to a call-out center, introduces some changes. While not explicitly defined in all sources, one mention indicates it appears to include a reduction of real estate commission fees paid to realtors. This change along with payment using a cash debit card could impact realtors who participate in the program. It also shifts the support model to a call center environment, which may feel less personalized compared to the prior system, according to one source.
8. How do military members register for relocation services with BGRS and how early should they plan their move?
Military members can pre-register for relocation services on the BGRS website (www.irp-pri.com) once they receive their posting message. They will need their last name and service number. After pre-registration, the employer must authorize the file which can take up to one week. Following authorization a password and User ID will be sent and then they can complete the registration. A BGRS Advisor will then contact them within two business days to begin the planning process. It’s advised to plan the house hunting trip about 8-9 weeks ahead of the Change of Station (COS) date, considering that the average closing date is about 6 weeks to 2 months in most markets.
