Our Canadian Immigration Story (IV)

In Canada, we were recommended a local realtor (Estate Agent). He helped us find a plot of land and reputable builder to build the house of our dreams. We arranged a mortgage (with 35% down you don’t need to have a job for approval) and agreed on the deal – all that was missing was the cash! Eventually, the house sale went through, the money arrived into our Canadian bank in 72 hours. I was astonished (and thankful) at how the transfer went like clockwork.

It was time to spend!!!! We went in to sign the house deal with the realtor and wrote out the house purchase agreement. The realtor handled all the negotiations on our behalf but always made sure we agreed to everything. We put down the 10% deposit needed to secure the deal (the rest is paid at possession) and put the house building process into gear.

The day after we returned, we gathered up our documents and photo’s and sent them recorded delivery to the High Commission in London. It would take approximately 3 weeks to process and then we’d be on our way. We researched and chose the shipping company for our Golden Retriever which would cost us more to ship than our one way tickets!

These one way flights were booked for the 11th January 2003 and it seemed strange paying more to ship a dog than a family of four! The rest they say, is history! We’ve been here 18 months now and can honestly say it has worked out better than we had ever imagined.

The first 8 months or so had more stress than I have ever had before and times were extremely hard but now we are settled it’s hard to imagine being back in the UK. The air is clean, scenery amazing and there is so much to do there’s no spare time! The beer isn’t too clever but you can’t have everything!

I hope this will give you an insight into Canadian Immigration and inspire rather than disturb!! If you decide to give it a go – good luck!

About the Author:
The author immigrated to Canada in 2003 and has constructed a free information website http://www.onestopimmigration-canada.com/ about Canadian Immigration and life in Canada based on his family’s experiences.