Montrose

Montrose sits quietly in the Kootenays, where nearly 98% of homes are single-detached houses and the median household income hits $94,000. That’s not an accident—this small community of just over 1,000 people has carved out something rare in rural BC: economic stability without the chaos.

The numbers tell a story most MICs miss. Manufacturing drives 21% of local employment, healthcare another 18%, and retail rounds out the top three. Translation? People here have real jobs that pay real wages, not seasonal gig work or tourism dependency. The unemployment rate sits at 4.4%, which beats most urban centers.

Here’s what makes Montrose different: it’s close enough to Trail to access services and employment, but far enough away to avoid the industrial noise. The community’s aging slightly—median age is 44.8 years—but that’s creating opportunities as older residents look to unlock equity for retirement or downsizing.

The housing market reflects this stability. With 435 total dwellings and almost zero diversity in housing types, you’re looking at a pure single-family market. No condos, no row houses, just detached homes on decent lots. That simplicity works in our favor when evaluating security.

Climate change has actually improved Montrose’s appeal. The area has warmed by a full plant hardiness zone since the 1960s, extending growing seasons and making outdoor living more attractive year-round. The Antenna Trail draws hikers, and proximity to the US border adds convenience for cross-border shopping or travel.

Tekamar offers a maximum 55% LTV in Montrose, reflecting the smaller market size but recognizing the community’s underlying stability. For brokers with clients who need equity-based lending, second mortgages, or debt consolidation in the Kootenays, we’re here when the big players won’t venture outside their urban comfort zones.