Harrison Hot Springs

If you’ve ever driven through British Columbia’s interior, you might’ve stumbled upon Harrison Hot Springs—a tiny gem of a town that punches way above its weight. Nestled near the southern end of Harrison Lake, this place isn’t just a pretty postcard; it’s a unique spot for real estate and lifestyle that’s worth a closer look, even if Tekamar Mortgage Fund has to sit this one out on the lending front. Let’s dive into what makes this community stand out and why it could matter to you, whether you’re a mortgage broker scouting unique markets or a borrower eyeing a slice of small-town paradise.

First off, Harrison Hot Springs is famous for its namesake hot springs—naturally heated pools that draw tourists and retirees like moths to a flame. With a population just shy of 2,000, the town’s seen nearly 30% growth since 2016. That’s a signal of strong appeal, especially for folks looking to escape the hustle of bigger cities like Vancouver. From a real estate perspective, this growth hints at solid demand, particularly for single-detached homes, which make up 65% of the housing stock here. For brokers, that’s a market with potential for equity-rich properties; for borrowers, it’s a chance to invest in a home with lasting value—provided you’ve got the right lender lined up.

What sets Harrison apart from other small BC towns isn’t just the mineral-soaked waters. It’s the lifestyle. Think scenic lake views, hiking trails, and events like the Harrison Festival of the Arts that give the town a cultural kick. Plus, its proximity to Agassiz and even the Lower Mainland means you’re not as isolated as you might feel in other rural spots. I’ve seen deals in similar towns where location near a bigger hub can make or break resale value—and Harrison’s got that edge. If you’re a borrower dreaming of a vacation home or retirement spot, this could be your sweet spot. Brokers, keep this in mind for clients wanting something off the beaten path but still sellable.

Now, let’s talk numbers—without drowning in them. The median age here is 57, with over 32% of residents over 65. That’s a retiree-heavy demographic, which often means stable, long-term homeowners sitting on equity. But here’s the flip side: median household income is around $74,000, and unemployment hovers at 8.3%. For mortgage pros, that’s a red flag for income-qualifying challenges under traditional bank rules. Borrowers, if you’re in this boat, alternative lenders who focus on equity over income could be your ticket—though, full disclosure, Tekamar’s maximum loan-to-value in Harrison Hot Springs is 0%. We’re upfront about where we lend, sticking to our niche of smaller towns and bigger centers outside Vancouver, with LTVs capped at 60-70% elsewhere. Our tagline, “We’ll lend where other MICs won’t,” holds true—just not here, where other lenders know the turf better.

Still, Harrison’s appeal isn’t diminished. Tourism and retail drive the local economy, and spots like the Harrison Lakefront walkway aren’t just Instagram bait—they’re proof of a town that invests in its charm. For brokers, that’s a market with steady visitor interest, potentially boosting short-term rental plays. Borrowers, it’s a reminder that even if Tekamar can’t step in, Harrison Hot Springs offers a unique real estate story worth exploring with the right partner.

So, while we at Tekamar admire Harrison from afar, we’re confident there’s value here for the right deal. Got a client or a property in another BC town? Give us a shout—we’re all ears for equity-driven deals where others hesitate. Harrison might not be in our lending zone, but it’s a shining example of why small-town BC deserves a second look.