Ever driven through a place so steeped in raw, rugged history that it practically dares you to stop and look around? That’s Lytton, British Columbia—a tiny town of just over 200 souls nestled at the confluence of the Fraser and Thompson Rivers. It’s not your typical mortgage market, and that’s exactly why we at Tekamar Mortgage Fund are drawn to places like this. With our tagline, “We’ll lend where other MICs won’t,” we’re here to talk about what makes Lytton unique for both borrowers and mortgage brokers looking for alternative lending solutions.
First, let’s get real about Lytton’s story. This isn’t just another small BC community—it’s a town that’s been through the wringer. In 2021, a devastating wildfire wiped out much of the village, making national headlines and leaving a community to rebuild from the ashes. That’s not ancient history; it’s a fresh challenge that shapes the real estate landscape today. For borrowers, this means potential opportunities to invest in a rebuilding effort, but with serious caveats. For brokers, it’s a chance to work with a lender like us who understands the risks and isn’t scared off by a town without all the shiny amenities of Kelowna or Victoria.
What sets Lytton apart isn’t just its dramatic history—it’s the geography and climate. Sitting in a warm pocket of BC with a long growing season, this place is a hidden gem for anyone dreaming of rural acreage or agricultural potential. Think orchards or small-scale farming, not just another suburban lot. I’ve seen deals where a borrower’s vision for bare land in a spot like this can turn into something special, even if the banks won’t touch it due to income or credit hurdles. That’s where Tekamar steps in with equity lending, focusing on a clear exit strategy. Brokers, if you’ve got a client with a solid plan but unconventional numbers, give us a call—we cap our loan-to-value (LTV) at 55% in Lytton to keep things safe, but we’re open to creative deals.
Now, let’s talk nuts and bolts. Lytton’s housing stock is almost entirely single-detached homes—no apartments or row houses here. That’s a plus for borrowers wanting a straightforward property, but the marketability took a hit post-fire. Rebuilding is underway, and spots like the historic Lytton Ferry site remind us of the town’s deep roots as a transportation hub along the Fraser Canyon. Still, the economic base is narrow, leaning heavily on transportation and warehousing. For borrowers, this means you’re not buying into a tourist hotspot—yet. For brokers, it’s a reminder that we’re cautious but not closed off. Our max LTV reflects the risk, and we adjust based on deal type, whether it’s bare land or a second mortgage.
Here’s the deal: Lytton isn’t for every lender, but it’s in our wheelhouse. Founded over 20 years ago, Tekamar avoids the Vancouver and Fraser Valley hype, focusing on smaller towns and bigger cities alike—anywhere in BC with the right LTV. We’re not chasing commercial or multi-family files; we’re about helping folks who don’t fit the bank’s cookie-cutter mold. Borrowers, if you’ve got equity but not the credit score, we’re listening. Brokers, if you’ve got a deal that’s been turned down elsewhere, let’s chat. We’re building a network of referring brokers, and we’re serious about making deals work—safely.
Lytton’s a town with grit, a place rebuilding its future one step at a time. If you’re looking to be part of that story, Tekamar’s here to help make it happen. Got a deal in mind? Let’s talk.