Where does the Foundation get its funds?

When someone buys a home, a deposit is often placed in trust. If the deposit is a large one, like a down payment, or likely to be on deposit for more than 30 days, the deposit is placed in a segregated account and the interest accrues to the purchaser. However, if the deposit is a small amount and likely to be on deposit for less than 30 days, it goes into "unassigned trust deposits" or "pooled trust accounts", held by real estate agents. The interest from all of these accounts in British Columbia goes to benefit the community at large through the Real Estate Foundation.

How do I apply for a grant?

Before applying, submit a letter of intent by e-mail, fax or mail summarizing your project idea. If the proposed project matches the Foundation's funding interests, you will be asked to submit a formal application. Please note that as of December 12, 2003, the Foundation is reviewing its grant making criteria and priorities. We invite non-profit organizations planning to undertake real estate and/or land use related projects to send a letter of intent to our office. Potential applicants should not use lists of grants approved in the past as indication of the kinds of projects that will be approved in the future. (This may or may not be the case.) New or updated funding criteria will be posted on this website soon after the first quarter of 2004, when they have been finalized. Note that the Foundation will have an amended grants meeting schedule in 2004.

What is a "letter of inquiry"?

This is a 2-3 page letter outlining your project idea. The letter should include a statement of need, project goal(s), the objectives that would achieve the goal(s), and the expected benefits. Append an approximate budget and list other funding sources, if applicable.

What are the names of the Foundation Governors?

As of April 1, 2004, The Governors are Mr. Cal Ross (Chair), Dr. V. Setty Pendakur (Vice-Chair), Ms. Theresa Eichler, Mr. Barry Brown-John and Mr. Charles Northrup.