Invermere

Let’s talk about Invermere, British Columbia—a small town with a big personality, tucked into the Columbia Valley. If you’re picturing just another sleepy spot in the Rockies, think again. This place is a hidden gem for lifestyle seekers, and for mortgage brokers and borrowers alike, it’s a market worth understanding. At Tekamar Mortgage Fund, we’re excited to lend here, and we’ve got the inside scoop on why Invermere stands out.

First off, Invermere isn’t your typical small-town story. With a population just shy of 4,000, it’s got a tight-knit feel, but it punches above its weight thanks to its proximity to Lake Windermere and Panorama Mountain Resort. This isn’t just scenery—it’s a lifestyle magnet. Retirees, vacation home buyers, and outdoor enthusiasts flock here for the lakefront views, skiing, and nearby hot springs like those at Fairmont. For brokers, that translates to a steady demand for properties, even in softer markets. And borrowers? If you’re looking to buy or refinance in a place with strong resale potential, Invermere’s appeal is hard to beat.

What makes this town unique compared to other BC communities is its balance of seclusion and accessibility. You’re not in the hustle of Kelowna or Victoria, but you’re still just a few hours from Calgary. That sweet spot draws a diverse crowd—think second-home buyers or folks wanting to escape urban sprawl. From a lending perspective, this diversity adds stability. At Tekamar, we see Invermere as a safe bet for equity lending, especially since our maximum loan-to-value (LTV) here is a comfortable 60%. We’re not chasing risky deals; we’re looking for solid exits. So, brokers, if you’ve got a client with a unique situation—say, a credit hiccup but decent equity—give us a call. And borrowers, if the banks have turned you down, we’re often the “yes” you’ve been waiting for, as long as the numbers make sense.

Here’s a little industry insight: small towns like Invermere often get overlooked by bigger lenders who stick to urban centers like Vancouver or the Fraser Valley. That’s not us. Our tagline, “We’ll lend where other MICs won’t,” isn’t just a catchy phrase—it’s our mission. We avoid the Greater Vancouver Area entirely, focusing instead on places like Invermere where we can assess risk with a clear eye. We’re picky about low LTVs to ensure we can recover funds if things go sideways, factoring in everything from foreclosure timelines to interest accrual. It’s not sexy, but it keeps everyone’s money safe.

One local tidbit? Keep an eye on the seasonal ebb and flow around Lake Windermere. Summer brings a surge of tourists and part-time residents, which can spike property interest. It’s a great time for brokers to pitch deals and for borrowers to consider equity plays. Another spot to note is the growth near Panorama—vacation rentals are hot, and that’s a niche we can work with if the equity’s there.

So, whether you’re a broker hunting for a lender who gets small-town dynamics or a borrower needing a creative solution, Invermere’s on our radar at Tekamar. We’ve been at this for over 20 years, sourcing deals from friends and family funds, and we’re growing by partnering with sharp brokers like you. Got a deal in mind? Let’s chat—Invermere’s just the kind of place we love to say “yes” to.