Silverton

Silverton sits on the shores of Slocan Lake in the heart of the Selkirk Mountains, where 149 residents have carved out one of BC’s most distinctive mountain communities. This tiny village punches above its weight in character — nearly half the population is over 65, creating a retirement haven where construction and healthcare each employ about 17% of the working residents.

The numbers tell an interesting story. With 94% of homes being single-detached houses spread across just 0.35 square kilometers, Silverton feels more like an exclusive mountain enclave than a traditional town. The median age of 64 reflects what many mountain communities are becoming: retreats for people who’ve earned their mountain views and want to wake up to them every day.

Climate change has been surprisingly kind to Silverton. The area has warmed by a full plant hardiness zone since the 1960s, extending the growing season and making year-round living more comfortable. That’s good news for property values and livability, though the remote location means buyers need to really want the mountain lifestyle.

Slocan Lake provides world-class fishing and boating right outside residents’ doors, while the surrounding peaks offer backcountry skiing and hiking that would cost thousands to access from Vancouver hotels. The village sits along the historic mining route that once made fortunes in silver — hence the name — and today attracts visitors exploring the area’s mining heritage.

For mortgage brokers, Silverton represents the classic mountain community challenge: stunning location with limited resale market. Our 55% maximum LTV reflects this reality. Properties here appeal to a specific buyer — someone seeking isolation, natural beauty, and a community where everyone knows their neighbors. When those buyers appear, they’re typically well-qualified and committed to the lifestyle.

The employment picture is narrow but stable, with construction serving the steady stream of property improvements and healthcare supporting the aging population. It’s not a growth story, but it’s a sustainability story for those who choose mountain living over urban convenience.