Saanich

So, let’s talk about Saanich, British Columbia—a place that’s got a lot more going for it than just being next door to Victoria. If you’re a mortgage broker scouting unique markets for clients, or a borrower looking for a spot to plant roots with some equity lending support, Saanich deserves a hard look. It’s got a vibe that blends suburban calm with just enough urban access, and for us at Tekamar Mortgage Fund, it’s exactly the kind of community we love to lend in.

First off, Saanich stands out with its lifestyle appeal. We’re talking endless green spaces, beaches like Cadboro Bay where you can actually dip your toes without freezing, and a mild climate that lets gardeners grow stuff most of BC can only dream of. That Plant Hardiness Zone 9a isn’t just a number—it means a longer growing season and a quality of life that pulls in retirees and families alike. For brokers, this translates to steady demand and strong resale value on properties, which is music to our ears when we’re assessing risk. And for borrowers? It means you’re buying into a place where your home isn’t just a roof—it’s a lifestyle investment.

From a real estate angle, Saanich offers a mix that’s hard to beat. You’ve got a solid chunk of single-detached homes—nearly half the housing stock—alongside duplexes and low-rise apartments. This variety gives borrowers options, whether you’re after a fixer-upper or a cozy family spot. For brokers submitting deals to us, know that we’re game for a range of property types here, as long as the numbers make sense. Our max loan-to-value in Saanich is 70%, but we often target closer to 60% for comfort, especially on trickier files like second mortgages or bare land. We’re all about equity lending, so if your client doesn’t quite pass the bank’s income test but has a clear exit strategy, let’s chat.

What also catches our eye is Saanich’s economic stability. With heavy hitters like health care, public administration, and retail driving jobs, it’s not a one-trick pony. Being close to Victoria doesn’t hurt either—it’s like having a big-city safety net without the big-city chaos. For us at Tekamar, that diversity means lower risk when we’re underwriting. We’re not just tossing money out there; we’re calculating how long it’d take to recover funds if things go sideways. Saanich checks our boxes for a safe exit. Borrowers, this stability is your friend too—it’s easier to plan a future here without worrying about a local industry tanking.

And hey, let’s not forget the little things that make Saanich special. Ever been to the Saanich Fair? It’s one of the oldest agricultural fairs in Western Canada, and it’s a reminder of the community’s deep roots. That kind of heritage adds intangible value to properties—something I’ve seen buyers gravitate toward over and over. Brokers, highlight that charm in your pitches to clients. Borrowers, it’s the kind of detail that makes a house feel like home.

At Tekamar, our tagline is “We’ll lend where other MICs won’t,” and Saanich fits our sweet spot perfectly. We steer clear of the Vancouver/Fraser Valley frenzy, focusing instead on places with character and solid fundamentals. If you’ve got a deal in Saanich—whether you’re a broker with a unique file or a borrower needing a non-traditional lender—give us a shout. We’re here to make it work, provided the equity’s there and the exit’s clear. Let’s build something together in a place as promising as this.