Sayward

Let’s talk about Sayward, British Columbia—a little coastal gem on Vancouver Island that’s got more character than most towns twice its size. Nestled between the mountains and the Johnstone Strait, it’s a place where the ocean breeze is your morning wake-up call and the forest is your backyard. But beyond the postcard views, what does Sayward mean for mortgage brokers and borrowers looking to make deals happen? At Tekamar Mortgage Fund, we’re diving into why this small community of just over 300 folks might be worth a closer look—and how we can help make financing work here.

First off, Sayward stands out because it’s not your typical BC small town. Sure, it’s remote—about an hour north of Campbell River—but that’s part of its charm. It’s a haven for those chasing a quieter life, with killer fishing spots like Kelsey Bay and hiking trails that’ll make you forget the word “stress.” This isn’t just trivia; it’s a selling point for niche buyers, like retirees or vacation home seekers, who want solitude over Starbucks. For brokers, that means a unique market to tap into with the right lender. And for borrowers, if you’ve got a dream of owning a seaside cabin here, we’re the kind of MIC that gets it—provided the numbers make sense.

Now, let’s get real about the housing scene. Most homes in Sayward are single-detached, making up over 75% of the market. That’s a lot of standalone properties with potential for equity lending—our sweet spot at Tekamar. But here’s the catch: with a median household income on the lower side and an unemployment rate that’s higher than average, traditional lenders might shy away. Not us. We’re happy to consider deals in Sayward with a maximum loan-to-value (LTV) of 55%, focusing on equity over income or credit scores. So, borrowers, if the banks have said no, give us a shout. Brokers, if you’ve got a client with a solid property but shaky financials, let’s chat about an exit strategy that works.

What else sets Sayward apart? Its economy leans hard on forestry and fishing, which can be a double-edged sword. It’s a tight-knit community with deep roots, but economic swings can hit hard. That’s why we’re cautious—our “lend where others won’t” motto doesn’t mean we’re reckless. We crunch the numbers on how long it’d take to recover funds if things go south, factoring in interest and local market speed. For brokers, this means we’re a partner who’s thorough, not just a quick yes. And borrowers, it means we’re protecting our investors while still giving your deal a fair shot.

Here’s the bottom line: Sayward isn’t for everyone, but for the right buyer or deal, it’s a hidden opportunity. At Tekamar, we’ve been at this for over 20 years, and we thrive on finding value in towns like this—places without stoplights, where other MICs hesitate. Whether you’re a broker with a quirky property to finance or a borrower dreaming of a life by the Strait, we’re here to talk. Got a deal in mind? Let’s see if Sayward—and Tekamar—can be your next big move.