Ashcroft

Ashcroft sits at the crossroads of the Thompson River and Highway 1, where the desert meets opportunity. This isn’t your typical BC retirement town — it’s where folks discover they can actually afford to live well on their pensions.

The numbers tell a story that mortgage brokers should pay attention to: 37% of residents are seniors, but the population grew 7.2% since 2016. That’s unusual for rural BC and suggests people are choosing Ashcroft, not just aging in place. With 876 private dwellings and nearly 65% being single-detached homes, there’s real estate substance here.

What makes Ashcroft special? It’s one of the few places in Canada where you can grow cacti outdoors year-round. The climate has actually improved over the past 30 years — a full hardiness zone better than previous decades. While other communities worry about harsh winters, Ashcroft residents enjoy mild temperatures that keep heating costs down and spirits up.

The town’s economy runs on practical foundations: retail trade, accommodation services, and mining operations provide steady employment. Sure, the median household income of $63,600 isn’t Vancouver money, but housing costs aren’t Vancouver prices either. The unemployment rate sits at just 3.4%, which means people who want to work can find it.

Ashcroft’s proximity to Kamloops — just 50 kilometers away — gives residents access to urban amenities while maintaining small-town affordability. The historic downtown, complete with heritage buildings and the Ashcroft Museum, attracts tourists who appreciate authentic western Canadian culture.

For mortgage brokers working with clients who need equity-based solutions, Ashcroft represents solid collateral territory. The community’s appeal to retirees and recreational property buyers creates consistent demand. Tekamar offers our full range of mortgage products here with a maximum LTV of 60%, reflecting the stable but smaller market dynamics of this desert gem.