Houston

Houston sits at the crossroads of resource industry opportunity and small-town practicality in north-central BC. The town’s economy runs on manufacturing and forestry—nearly 35% of the workforce depends on these sectors, which explains both the solid median household income of $84,000 and the 12.4% unemployment rate that reflects the boom-bust nature of resource work.

What makes Houston different isn’t just its location along the Bulkley River or its reputation as a steelhead fishing destination. This community has figured out how to maintain stability despite economic volatility. The housing market shows this pragmatic approach: 60% single-detached homes with a surprising 15% in movable dwellings, suggesting residents adapt to economic cycles rather than fight them.

The climate tells an interesting story too. Houston’s moved from hardiness zone 3b to 4a over recent decades, opening up new agricultural possibilities that smart residents are already exploring. Agriculture and forestry combined employ nearly 35% of the workforce, but the manufacturing base provides crucial diversification that many similar-sized communities lack.

For mortgage brokers, Houston represents the classic northern BC lending scenario where equity matters more than income verification. Our 55% maximum LTV reflects the reality of a resource-dependent market where property values can shift with commodity cycles. The town’s 3,000 residents aren’t going anywhere—they’ve chosen Houston for the outdoor lifestyle, reasonable housing costs, and the kind of work that pays well when it’s available.

Tekamar’s equity-based lending products work particularly well here, where seasonal employment and resource industry income patterns don’t always fit traditional lending boxes. Houston borrowers typically understand real estate as a long-term play rather than a quick flip, which aligns perfectly with our conservative approach to protecting investor capital.