Squamish

Here’s the reality about Squamish: it’s the kind of place where a $1.2 million townhouse sells in three days because someone fell in love with the Chief looming over their morning coffee. This isn’t your typical BC mountain town struggling with seasonal economics—it’s become Vancouver’s adventure-loving younger sibling, complete with tech workers who commute south and retirees who finally escaped the city grind.

The numbers tell a story that mortgage professionals should notice. With 22% population growth since 2016 and a median household income of $111,000, Squamish has transformed from a logging town into what locals call “the outdoor recreation capital of Canada.” The Sea-to-Sky Highway didn’t just bring the 2010 Olympics traffic—it brought permanent residents who realized they could have mountain biking trails in their backyard and still make Vancouver meetings.

What makes Squamish different from other mountain communities is its year-round appeal. That Zone 8b climate means you’re hiking the Stawamus Chief in February, not just summer weekends. The economy reflects this diversity too: professional services and construction each represent 12% of employment, while tourism adds another layer without dominating everything.

The housing market here moves with Vancouver’s rhythm but at a different price point. Single-detached homes make up 40% of the housing stock, though apartments and row houses are filling in as density increases. When Vancouver buyers look north for space and lifestyle, Squamish consistently lands on their shortlist.

Currently, Tekamar’s maximum LTV in Squamish is 0.0%—we don’t lend here. The proximity to Vancouver’s lending market and the community’s rapid growth trajectory place it outside our typical service area. For mortgage brokers working with Squamish clients, we’d suggest exploring our lending options in communities throughout the BC Interior and Vancouver Island where we actively provide alternative mortgage solutions.