Cumberland

Ever driven through a small town and felt an unexpected pull to stay a while? Cumberland, British Columbia, has that kind of charm. Nestled in the Comox Valley on Vancouver Island, this isn’t just another sleepy spot—it’s a hidden gem with a gritty past and a vibrant present. For mortgage brokers and borrowers alike, Cumberland offers unique opportunities in a market that’s as dynamic as its mountain biking trails. Let’s dive into what makes this place tick and why Tekamar Mortgage Fund is excited to lend here.

First off, Cumberland’s history gives it a character you won’t find in cookie-cutter suburbs. Once a coal mining hub in the late 1800s, it’s transformed into a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and retirees seeking that elusive “small-town vibe” with big-time recreation. Think world-class trails at Cumberland Community Forest and a quick jaunt to the amenities of Courtenay or Comox. This lifestyle appeal isn’t just a feel-good story—it translates to solid resale demand, even if the market takes a dip. For brokers, that means deals here have a safety net; for borrowers, it’s a reminder that your investment has staying power.

From a lending perspective, Cumberland checks a lot of boxes. At Tekamar, we’re thrilled to offer a maximum loan-to-value (LTV) of 70% in this community. That’s not a number we throw around lightly—it reflects our confidence in the area’s stability and growth. With a population bump of over 18% since 2016, and a diverse economy leaning on health care and construction rather than just one industry, there’s a resilience here that’s rare in smaller towns. Borrowers, if you’ve got equity but maybe not the perfect credit score, we’re open to creative solutions with a clear exit strategy in mind. Brokers, if your client’s deal fits our sweet spot—think first or second mortgages, equity lending, or even odd properties—give us a call. We’re all ears.

What sets Cumberland apart in BC’s real estate landscape? It’s not pretending to be a mini-Vancouver or a tourist trap like some coastal spots. Housing here is still dominated by single-detached homes, making up nearly 65% of the market, which means there’s room for families and investors to plant roots. Plus, the median household income of $86,000 signals a community that’s got some financial muscle without the inflated costs of bigger centers. For us at Tekamar, that’s the kind of balance we look for—enough economic stability to mitigate risk, but not so overheated that values are out of whack.

Here’s the kicker: Cumberland isn’t on every lender’s radar, but that’s exactly why we’re here. Our tagline, “We’ll lend where other MICs won’t,” isn’t just a slogan—it’s our mission. Unlike many BC Mortgage Investment Corporations fixated on Vancouver or the Fraser Valley, we seek out places like Cumberland, where the story is still being written. Borrowers, if you’re feeling stuck with traditional lenders, we get it, and we’re ready to help with non-income qualifying or debt consolidation options. Brokers, if you’ve got a client in a unique situation out here, let’s chat about making it work.

So, whether you’re a broker hunting for a lender who gets small-town dynamics, or a borrower eyeing a property near the legendary Jumbo’s Cabin trailhead, Cumberland—and Tekamar—have got something for you. This town’s got roots, recreation, and real potential. We’re betting on it. How about you?