Armstrong

Every September, Armstrong, British Columbia, transforms into a bustling hub of cowboy boots and carnival rides with the Interior Provincial Exhibition, a tradition since 1899. This isn’t just a fair; it’s a window into the heart of a small town with big character, nestled in the North Okanagan Valley. For mortgage brokers and borrowers, Armstrong offers more than just a slice of rural charm—it’s a unique spot for alternative lending opportunities, and at Tekamar Mortgage Fund, we’re excited to be part of it.

What sets Armstrong apart from other BC communities? It’s got a deep agricultural heritage, with fertile lands that have supported farming for generations. That mild climate—recently bumped up half a zone due to warming trends—makes it a grower’s paradise. Think sprawling orchards and fields that paint the landscape. But it’s not all about the soil. With a median age of 50 and nearly 30% of the population over 65, Armstrong draws retirees looking for peace, quiet, and a tight-knit community. For brokers, this means a steady demand for properties with rural appeal. And for borrowers, it’s a chance to own a slice of serenity, even if your credit or income doesn’t check every traditional box.

From a lending perspective, Armstrong’s housing market is practical and grounded. Over 69% of homes are single-detached, which means solid, marketable properties for equity lending—our specialty at Tekamar. We’re not chasing commercial deals or multi-family units; we focus on residential mortgages where the numbers make sense. With a maximum loan-to-value (LTV) of 65% in Armstrong, we’re cautious but flexible. Got a deal on a quirky property or bare land? We’ll take a look. Need a bridge loan or debt consolidation? Let’s talk. Our niche is lending where others won’t, especially in smaller towns like this one, outside the Vancouver/Fraser Valley bubble.

Here’s a little insider tip for brokers: Armstrong’s smaller market size can mean less competition for deals, but it also means slower turnover if things go south. That’s why we keep our LTV conservative and always map out a clear exit strategy—think refinance potential down the road. For borrowers, this translates to a lender who’s got your back but won’t overextend. We’re not here to gamble with our friends-and-family-sourced funds; we’re here to make smart, safe loans work.

And let’s not forget the lifestyle draw. Beyond the annual Exhibition, Armstrong is home to gems like the Armstrong Spallumcheen Museum and Art Gallery, where history buffs can geek out over local artifacts. It’s a place where nature and community collide—perfect for those looking to escape the urban grind. For brokers pitching to clients, that’s a selling point. For borrowers dreaming of a quieter life, it’s a reason to call us up and see if we can help make it happen.

At Tekamar, our tagline says it all: “We’ll lend where other MICs won’t.” Armstrong fits our sweet spot—small-town charm with enough economic diversity in health care, retail, and construction to keep things stable, even if manufacturing hiccups (like the Armstrong Cheese closure years back) leave a mark. So, whether you’re a broker with a unique deal or a borrower needing a non-traditional mortgage, give us a shout. We’re ready to dig into the details and make Armstrong home—financially speaking, of course.