Lions Bay

Ever driven up the Sea-to-Sky Highway and caught a glimpse of a tiny village nestled between towering mountains and the shimmering Howe Sound? That’s Lions Bay, British Columbia—a hidden gem that feels like a secret handshake among those in the know. It’s not just another stop on the map; it’s a place where nature and community collide in the best way possible. For mortgage brokers and borrowers, Lions Bay offers a unique slice of real estate opportunity, even if it’s not in our lending zone at Tekamar Mortgage Fund. Let’s dive into what makes this place tick and why it’s worth a closer look.

First off, Lions Bay is small—really small. With just over 1,300 folks calling it home, it’s the kind of place where everyone knows your name, or at least your dog’s. But don’t let the size fool you. The housing stock here is almost entirely single-detached homes, many with jaw-dropping views of the ocean and mountains. We’re talking properties that scream “lifestyle investment”—perfect for retirees or families craving peace and quiet. For brokers, this means dealing with high-value, low-turnover properties where buyers often need creative financing to make their dream a reality. And for borrowers? If you’re eyeing a spot here, know that equity in these homes can be a goldmine, even if traditional lenders get jittery about the small market size.

What sets Lions Bay apart from other BC communities isn’t just the scenery (though, wow, is it something). It’s got a vibe—think sustainability and bird-friendly certifications that attract a specific kind of buyer. Add in trails like the ones around Lions Bay Beach Park, and you’ve got a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. From a real estate perspective, this niche appeal can drive demand, even in a tiny market. I’ve seen deals where buyers will stretch their budgets just to wake up to that view every day. Brokers, you might find clients who need a lender willing to think outside the box for these unique properties. Borrowers, if your credit or income doesn’t check all the bank’s boxes, alternative lenders could be your ticket to snagging a piece of this paradise.

Now, a quick heads-up from us at Tekamar: while we love the charm of places like Lions Bay, our maximum loan-to-value (LTV) here is 0%. That’s right—we don’t lend in this specific spot. Why? It’s not about desirability (trust me, it’s high). It’s about our niche. We’re the MIC that says, “We’ll lend where others won’t,” focusing on smaller towns and bigger centers outside the Vancouver/Fraser Valley bubble. Lions Bay just falls outside our risk profile, as other lenders know this micro-market better. For brokers, if you’ve got a deal elsewhere in BC—say, Vernon or a town without a stoplight—give us a call to chat about low LTV options. Borrowers, if you’re outside the big metro areas, we’re eager to help with equity lending or non-income qualifying solutions.

Economically, Lions Bay holds its own with a strong base in professional services and a median household income that’s nothing to sneeze at. It’s a stable, if small, community—ideal for those looking to plant roots. For anyone in the mortgage game, understanding these quirks is key. Lions Bay isn’t about quick flips; it’s about long-term value. So, whether you’re a broker hunting for the right lender or a borrower dreaming of a coastal escape, keep this village on your radar. Just know that when it comes to financing here, you’ll need to look beyond our roster—but we’ve got your back in plenty of other BC towns. Where’s your next deal hiding? Let’s talk.