Relocating for a new posting can be both exciting and overwhelming. Whether you are a member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police or the Canadian Armed Forces, understanding how the Brookfield Global Relocation Services (BGRS)program works is essential to making your move smooth, efficient, and financially supported.If you are relocating to key military and RCMP hubs on Vancouver Island—such as Victoria, Comox, Esquimalt, or Nanaimo—this guide will help you understand what BGRS covers, how the process works, and how to make the most of your relocation benefits.
What Is Brookfield Global Relocation Services (BGRS)?
Brookfield Global Relocation Services (BGRS) is the third-party provider that manages relocation programs for RCMP and Canadian Armed Forces members across Canada. Their role is to coordinate, administer, and reimburse costs associated with a government-approved move.BGRS acts as the central hub for your relocation by:- Managing your relocation file and budget
- Coordinating appraisals, inspections, and moving services
- Approving and reimbursing eligible expenses
- Guiding you through policy rules and timelines
What Does the BGRS Relocation Program Cover?
One of the most important aspects of the BGRS program is understanding what expenses are covered. While benefits vary depending on your specific posting and status, most relocations include the following:1. Home Sale and Purchase Costs
BGRS helps offset many of the financial burdens of buying and selling a home, including:- Real estate commissions
- Legal and notary fees
- Appraisal and inspection costs
- Mortgage penalties (if applicable)
- Equity assistance in certain situations
2. Travel and House Hunting Trips (HHT)
Members are typically eligible for funded travel to secure housing before their move. This may include:- Flights or mileage
- Accommodation
- Meals and incidentals
3. Moving and Transportation Costs
BGRS coordinates and covers the physical move of your household goods:- Professional movers and packing services
- Storage (if required)
- Vehicle transportation
4. Temporary Accommodation and Living Expenses (TAL)
If there is a gap between selling your home and taking possession of your new one, BGRS may cover:- Short-term accommodations
- Meals
- Miscellaneous living expenses
Key Differences: RCMP vs Canadian Armed Forces Relocation Benefits
While both RCMP and military members use BGRS, there are important differences in how their relocation benefits are structured.RCMP Relocation Program
- Often includes more flexibility in certain expense categories
- May have different thresholds for equity loss coverage
- Typically tailored to policing relocations and timelines
Canadian Armed Forces Relocation Program
- Structured under the Canadian Forces Integrated Relocation Program (CFIRP)
- Divided into clearly defined funding envelopes
- More rigid policy guidelines and spending categories
Core vs Customized Benefits: What’s the Difference?
A key concept within the BGRS relocation program is the distinction between core benefits and customized benefits.Core Benefits
These are essential, fully funded benefits required for your relocation. They typically include:- Transportation and moving costs
- Real estate fees within approved limits
- Basic travel expenses
Customized Benefits
These provide flexibility based on your individual needs and are drawn from a set budget. They may include:- Home staging and marketing enhancements
- Additional travel expenses
- Upgraded accommodations or services
Relocating to Vancouver Island: What You Need to Know
Vancouver Island is a highly desirable posting location, offering a mix of urban and coastal lifestyles. However, each area presents unique real estate challenges:- Victoria and Esquimalt: High demand, limited inventory, and higher price points
- Comox Valley: Growing market with strong appeal for military families
- Nanaimo: More affordable options with increasing demand
