Kent

Kent sits in the Fraser Valley’s agricultural heartland, where the climate has literally improved over the past decades — warming by a full plant hardiness zone since the 1960s. This shift to Zone 7b means longer growing seasons and better conditions for everything from berry farms to nurseries, making the area increasingly attractive for agricultural investment and lifestyle properties.

The community’s 6,300 residents enjoy something rare in BC’s Lower Mainland: space to breathe. With just 37 people per square kilometer across 168 square kilometers, Kent offers rural tranquility while staying connected to urban amenities. We don’t currently lend in Kent (0% LTV), but the area’s fundamentals tell an interesting story about Fraser Valley’s evolving character.

Agriculture drives much of Kent’s identity, employing nearly 10% of the workforce alongside construction and healthcare. The median age of 48 reflects a community where people settle down — 70% of homes are single-detached houses, perfect for families seeking country living without complete isolation from city conveniences.

Harrison Hot Springs sits nearby, drawing tourists year-round and supporting local accommodation and food service businesses. This proximity creates economic spillover effects while maintaining Kent’s agricultural character. The area’s natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities — from hiking to kayaking — appeal to buyers seeking lifestyle over pure investment returns.

Kent represents the Fraser Valley’s quieter side, where warming temperatures and rural charm create appeal for those escaping urban density. While economic indicators show challenges typical of smaller communities, the combination of agricultural stability, tourism proximity, and lifestyle appeal creates a unique market dynamic that’s worth understanding, even if it falls outside our current lending parameters.