NDHQ Pearkes · Downtown Ottawa · CAF relocation
Before you book showings, confirm where you will actually report to work. The Major-General George R. Pearkes Building at 101 Colonel By Drive is downtown, and that makes its housing and commuting trade-offs different from a posting to NDHQ Carling or CFS Leitrim.
Watch the full relocation video
Get oriented before your House Hunting Trip. Watch the video, then use the guide below to build a shortlist around your family, budget and daily commute.
The Major-General George R. Pearkes Building is located at 101 Colonel By Drive in downtown Ottawa. Your commute may involve downtown traffic, parking arrangements, transit transfers or a combination. Check the latest workplace and parking information with your unit.
Compare Ottawa DND and CAF work locations →
There isn't one right answer for every Pearkes posting. Here are three different starting points depending on your priorities.
Consider central housing if proximity to downtown, walkability and less reliance on a car matter more than having a large suburban home.
An east-end suburban option with a variety of family-oriented housing. Compare the door-to-door downtown commute and transit connections before deciding.
South and southwest options if you prefer suburban space and amenities. Evaluate commute times, transit connections and any second household commute.
Also compare other central, east-end or west-end communities based on budget, housing type and school needs. Explore the Ottawa neighbourhood guide →
Before your HHT, agree on a realistic housing budget, preferred property type, acceptable commute and family must-haves. Shortlist homes by neighbourhood, then check commute options at your actual reporting time. If you have a spouse or partner commuting elsewhere, plan around both workplaces.
Read the CAF House Hunting Trip guide →
I'm Dwayne Desveaux, a 25-year Canadian Armed Forces veteran and Ottawa REALTOR® with eXp Realty. I help CAF members and their families compare neighbourhoods, plan HHTs and make informed housing decisions.
Working at another Ottawa location? Read the CFS Leitrim guide or explore the best places to live for an Ottawa posting.
We'll compare your commute, housing options and HHT priorities before you arrive.
Book a call with Dwayne