Kent

Ever driven through a small town in BC and thought, “This place has a vibe I can’t quite put my finger on”? That’s Kent for you—a hidden gem tucked away in the heart of the province, just a stone’s throw from the soothing waters of Harrison Hot Springs. It’s not your typical urban hub, and that’s exactly why it’s worth talking about. For mortgage brokers and borrowers alike, understanding a place like Kent can open up unique opportunities—or at least spark a good conversation over coffee.

Let’s get straight to the meat of it. Kent, with its population hovering around 6,300, is a tight-knit community that thrives on small-town charm. What makes it stand out from other BC spots? For starters, its climate is a quiet superstar. Sitting in Plant Hardiness Zone 7b, Kent boasts a warm, long growing season that’s a dream for agriculture—one of the area’s top industries alongside construction and tourism. This isn’t just trivia; it’s a signal of stability. A diverse local economy, even in a smaller market, often means steadier property values over time. For brokers, that’s a tidbit to tuck away when pitching deals in similar communities. And for borrowers, it’s a reminder that a home here isn’t just a roof—it’s a stake in a resilient little ecosystem.

Now, housing. Single-detached homes dominate the landscape at over 70%, which tells you Kent is a place for folks who value space and a bit of elbow room. Retirees, making up a solid chunk of the population, are drawn to the peace and proximity to natural attractions like hiking trails along the Fraser River or a quick dip at Harrison Hot Springs. That lifestyle appeal keeps demand ticking, even if it’s not a bustling market. From a mortgage perspective, this kind of desirability can be a safety net—properties in scenic, retiree-friendly spots often hold their own during resale. Brokers, you might not have a deal here with us (more on that in a sec), but it’s worth noting for clients eyeing lifestyle over hustle. Borrowers, if you’re dreaming of a quieter life, Kent’s got the backdrop for it—just chat with your broker about the right lender fit.

Here’s the catch, though, and I’ll lay it out plain. At Tekamar Mortgage Fund, we’ve got a tagline—“We’ll lend where other MICs won’t”—and we mean it when we say we love small towns and big ones alike, from Vernon to Victoria. But Kent? Our maximum loan-to-value (LTV) here is 0%. That’s not a knock on the town—it’s a stunner with a lot going for it. We just don’t lend in this specific area because others know the market better than we do. Our niche is low-risk equity lending with a clear exit strategy, often at 60% LTV or lower, and we stick to regions where we can confidently assess recovery timelines. Brokers, if you’ve got a Kent deal, give us a call anyway—we’re happy to point you to resources or chat about other towns we cover. And borrowers, don’t let this discourage you; there are lenders out there for every corner of BC, and your broker can help navigate that maze.

So, why write about Kent if we don’t lend here? Because understanding places like this—small, unique, and full of character—helps us all make smarter decisions. Whether you’re a broker building trust with clients or a borrower hunting for the right spot to call home, knowing the lay of the land matters. Kent’s not just another pin on the map; it’s a lesson in what makes BC’s smaller communities tick. Got questions about where we do lend? Hit us up. We’re all ears.