CF Members, you’ve come to the right place.
- Get started with a step-by-step “Before, During and After Your Move” To Do List.
- Bruce Johnson is listed with the Brookfield GRS. Learn all about the BGRS here.
- If you are being posted to CFB Borden, contact Bruce regarding the most attractive options for home buying in the area. Bruce has served military members on both the buying and selling side of the equation, and Mary, having worked in a civilian role at Base Borden for 7 years, has a unique perspective on the positives and challenges of a Base Borden posting.
- Learn about the CAFRD (Canadian Armed Forces Relocation Directive) on the official CF site here.
- Released members must communicate with their CF Relocation Co-ordinator.
- Relocation assistance is available! Be sure to visit this comprehensive site for information and resources.
Planning your HHT? Here are some tips from the CF on a successful house-hunting trip:
CFB Borden Official WebsiteTip #1 – Once you have reviewed the Relocation Directive and are ready to go on your HHT, ensure you have sufficient funds for your anticipated HHT expenses. The finances section of Your Move Profile will show you an estimated budget based on your profile and allow you to request an advance of funds before you leave.
Tip #2 – Pick an appropriate time to conduct your HHT. If you’re planning to buy, we recommend going 60-90 days before your anticipated possession date to allow appropriate time to settle on a closing date. If you’re planning to rent, this timeframe can be shortened to 30-60 days because it is generally easier to sign a lease on short notice than it is to buy a property.
Tip #3 – Before you leave, make arrangements with any third-party service providers (TPSPs) you might need. If you’re planning to buy, contact a lawyer and make sure they are prepared to handle your purchase, and take the opportunity to meet with them while you’re there. Start working with a realtor/broker® well in advance of your departure: They can narrow down potential homes and make sure you’re focused and ready to roll on arrival. If you’re planning to rent, contact a rental search agent before you leave so they can understand your needs and find rental properties tailored to you.
Tip #4 – If necessary, be ready to make a firm offer or sign a lease without a firm sale or dispossession date on your home at origin. Getting pre-approved for a second mortgage can bring its own complications, so confirm with your bank before you leave to make sure there are no problems once you are ready to place an offer.
Tip #5 – Your HHT isn’t only about finding a new home. Plan also to visit important places based on your family’s needs. You can use the HHT to make arrangements with schools, churches, clinics, and financial institutions.
Tip #6 – When choosing your new accommodation, remember the three most important things in real estate: location, location, location. Check out the Choosing a Neighbourhood tab to help walk you through what you should consider when making this decision.
Bonus Tip: Contact Bruce to learn the inside scoop on the pros and cons of living in Wasaga Beach, Collingwood, and surrounding areas. He has been a full-time professional real estate agent with RE/MAX By the Bay Brokerage since 1997. Bruce and Mary raised two amazing kids through schools in Wasaga Beach and Collingwood.