If you’re posted to CFB Trenton, buying a home might be the biggest task on your to-do list. Whether it’s your first posting or you’ve been through this before, every relocation comes with its own set of challenges. That’s why we’re breaking down the most important things you need to know before buying a home in Trenton, including how to choose the right real estate agent, what expenses are covered by BGRS, and how to protect yourself with the right mortgage policy.
And if you’re looking for an even deeper overview of the area, we’ve created a free downloadable military relocation guide to help you get started: quinteliving.com/military.
Choose Your Real Estate Agent Carefully
As soon as you suspect a posting to Trenton, it’s time to connect with a local REALTOR®—but don’t just pick the first name on the TPSP list. While anyone can register with BGRS to appear on that list, not all agents understand the unique timing, paperwork, and financial pressures that come with a military move.
At Quinte Living, military relocations are our specialty. Hillary Robert not only has personal experience with postings but also trains other REALTORS® on CAFRD and BGRS policies. We’ve built dedicated systems to help military families navigate house-hunting trips (HHTs), financing, negotiations, and closing—all under tight timelines.
We recommend interviewing at least two or three REALTORS®, asking questions about their experience with military clients, and reviewing testimonials. Look for someone who makes the process feel smooth and gives you confidence in their knowledge of local market trends and CAF relocation policies.
Real Estate Fees
Under the CAFRD, several purchase-related expenses are covered, including:
✔️ Legal fees (up to posted rates)
✔️ Property inspections (e.g., home, septic, well, asbestos—each covered individually up to the posted rate)
✔️ Land transfer tax
But here’s the important part: buyer agent commissions are not covered.
In most transactions in Trenton, the seller pays the commission to both listing and buyer brokerages. However, that’s not guaranteed. If the seller offers a reduced or no commission, and you’ve signed a Buyer Representation Agreement, you could be on the hook for the difference.
At Quinte Living, we’ve created a policy to protect our military buyers from this exact scenario, ensuring you aren’t left with an unexpected expense. Not every agent offers this—so ask upfront before signing anything.
Get the Right Mortgage Terms (This Part Really Matters)
Getting the lowest interest rate is important—but so is protecting yourself against early termination fees. If you receive another posting before your mortgage term is up, you could face thousands of dollars in penalties—and BGRS only covers up to $5,000.
The good news? Some lenders offer a posting clause that waives penalties if you’re relocated by the CAF. Always ask your mortgage provider if this can be included in your agreement.
If that clause isn’t available, be sure to understand your lender’s penalty structure. Some charge three months of interest; others use more complex formulas. The time to ask is before you sign, not when you receive your next posting message.
Planning Ahead Makes All the Difference
Relocating on a posting can feel overwhelming—but with the right preparation and the right people in your corner, it doesn’t have to be. At Quinte Living, we’ve helped hundreds of military families settle into Trenton and the surrounding areas with clarity, confidence, and care.
Want to dive deeper into the communities, schools, pricing, and timelines around CFB Trenton?
📘 Download our free Military Relocation Guide by clicking here
📩 Ready to plan your HHT or have questions? Let’s chat. We’d be honoured to help.
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Disclaimer: The information in this post is deemed accurate at the time of writing but is not guaranteed. CAF members should verify all relocation details and entitlements with their BGRS representative or Career Manager.