Brandon Military Relocation Realtor

Brandon Military Relocation Realtor Brian Baker is the Brookfield Relocation Specialist for Military & RCMP personnel posted in or out of Brandon.  Whether you’re buying or selling, I can help you with all your Brandon and area real estate needs. I’m an experienced professional who knows the area well and can help you negotiate the best possible price. I’ll offer you sound advice, and can connect you with the best home-related suppliers in the business.

Brandon Military Relocation Realtor – BGRS

Brian Baker is your Local Expert when it comes to Military and RCMP Relocations in or out of Brandon.

• I find out what you’re looking for in a new home and how much you want to spend, then send you current viewing options based on your wish list
• I can pre-book your meetings and appointments before you arrive to help maximize your time once you arrive in the Comox Valley
• If you have other needs with utility providers, storage or movers, we can help point you in the right direction

  If you’ve been fortunate enough to be posted to Brandon, then I’d be happy to help you transition as an approved service provider to the DND Integrated Relocation Program.

I’ve lived in the Brandon most of my life and I will answer all of your questions about our wonderful community, the diverse neighborhoods and amenities. In short, I’m here for you – from your first house-hunting trip to your final move-in. Discover the difference of working with a Brookfield Relocation Specialist for your RCMP or military transfer to Brandon!

Choosing a Neighborhood

You’re not just buying a home – you’re buying a location. And even the most perfect house won’t feel right if you’re in the wrong neighborhood. Educate yourself about the area so you’ll choose wisely – and end up being happy with your decision.

• Are you close to shopping and recreation? Being close to stores, parks, recreational facilities, a post office and dry cleaners will save you time.
• Do people in the area take care of their homes? Explore the neighborhood, keeping an eye out for signs of neglect (overgrown lawns, houses in need of paint, trash and junked appliances littering yards). A run-down neighborhood can drive down your property value.
• Are there schools nearby? If you have children, the proximity and quality of schools is key. Some schools will provide data (i.e. average test scores) that can determine quality. Talking to neighbors with children can be helpful, too.
• Is there good access to transportation? Living near public transport and/or major highways can mean an easier commute to work.
• Is it safe? Check with the local police department – they may be able to provide statistics about break-ins or other crimes.
• Will the home increase in value over time? Homes in some neighborhoods appreciate faster than others. Research the selling prices of homes in over the past decade or so to predict future trends. Your agent may be able to provide helpful data.
• Is it quiet? Listen for traffic noise, barking dogs, airplanes and any other noises that might bother you. Return to the neighborhood at different times of the day to get an accurate impression.

8 Things to Look for When You Buy

When you fall in love with a home, the things you like about it can blind you to its problems. Next time you go to an open house or tour a property with an agent, keep your eyes open with these top tips:

1. Take a look at general upkeep. Is it clean? Are lawns left uncut? Do walls need paint? If the small stuff hasn’t been taken care of, there’s a good chance that bigger issues have been ignored as well.
2. Test it. Try out lights, faucets, toilets, air conditioning and major appliances.
3. Check for water damage. Look at ceilings and drywall for stains and bulges. Water that works its way in through a leaky roof or a cracked foundation can rot wood, create mildew and destroy possessions.
4. Watch for “spongy” floors. Take note of soft, springy sections, squeaky or uneven areas – these can be a sign that costly floor repairs are needed.
5. Check doors and windows. Make sure they fit snugly in their jambs and operate smoothly. Feel for drafts. Look for flaked paint and loose caulking – if wood isn’t protected from moisture, it will rot.
6. Look at the foundation. If you see deep cracks or loose mortar and bricks, there may be a significant structural problem. Soggy areas near the foundation are also a warning sign.
7. Make sure there’s enough storage space. If you are moving from a home with large closets and a shed, make sure your new house is able to store an equivalent amount of belongings.
8. Measure. Make sure your furniture will fit into your new house.

These tips are for your own first (or second) look at a home. For true peace of mind, you should always hire a certified home inspector before you buy.

Determine What You Can Afford

Buying a home involves both one-time costs and more regular monthly expenses. It’s important that you take both into account when you’re figuring out how much you can spend on a home.

The largest one-time cost is the down payment, which usually represents upto 25% of the total price of the property. Then, in addition to the actual purchase price, there are a number of other expenses that you may be expected to pay for.

Typical One-Time Expenses

• Mortgage application and appraisal fee (paid at time of application)
• Appraisal fee (paid at inspection)
• Property inspection (optional) (paid at closing)
• Legal fees (paid at closing)
• Legal disbursements (paid at closing)
• Deed and/or mortgage registration (paid at closing)
• Property survey (sometimes provided by seller) (paid at closing)
• Land Transfer, Deed Tax or Property Purchase Tax (in Quebec within3 months following signing) (paid at closing)
• Mortgage interest adjustment and take over fee (if applicable) (paid at closing)
• Adjustments for fuel, taxes, etc. (paid at closing)
• Mortgage insurance (and application fee if applicable) (paid at closing)
• Home and property insurance (paid at closing and on-going)
• Connection charges for utilities such as gas, water and electricity (paid on date of move)
• Moving expenses (paid on date of move)

Other costs may include landscaping, decorating, furnishings, appliances and repairs. Typical monthly costs include mortgage payments, maintenance, insurance, condo fees, property taxes and utilities.