Tumbler Ridge

Let’s talk about Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia—a small town with a big personality, tucked away in the northeast corner of the province. This isn’t your typical postcard-perfect coastal community; it’s a rugged, resource-driven spot with a story to tell and some unique opportunities for the right mortgage brokers and borrowers. At Tekamar Mortgage Fund, we’re all about lending where others won’t, and Tumbler Ridge fits that bill perfectly with its off-the-beaten-path charm and untapped potential.

What sets Tumbler Ridge apart? For starters, it’s the only town in BC with UNESCO Global Geopark status, thanks to its jaw-dropping landscapes, dinosaur fossils, and world-class waterfalls like Kinuseo Falls. People move here for the lifestyle—think hiking, snowmobiling, and embracing the kind of quiet you just don’t find in bigger centers. That outdoor appeal draws a niche crowd, often retirees or families looking for affordable homes with a side of adventure. For borrowers, this means properties with character, often at lower price points than urban markets. And for brokers? It’s a chance to work with clients who need creative financing solutions in a market that’s anything but cookie-cutter.

From a real estate perspective, Tumbler Ridge’s housing stock leans heavily on single-detached homes—nearly 70% of dwellings—which tells you this is a place for folks who value space and independence. But here’s the catch: the economy hinges on mining and resource industries, which can be a rollercoaster. The coal mine closure a few years back hit hard, and while sectors like wind power and tourism are gaining ground, stability isn’t guaranteed. For us at Tekamar, that means we approach lending here with caution. Our maximum loan-to-value (LTV) in Tumbler Ridge is 55%, reflecting the need for a safe exit strategy if things go sideways. We’re not here to take reckless risks—our funds come from friends and family, and we protect that trust fiercely.

That said, we see opportunity where others might hesitate. Maybe you’re a borrower with a less-than-perfect credit score, but you’ve got equity in a quirky property near Tumbler Ridge’s stunning trails. Or perhaps you’re a broker with a client who doesn’t fit the bank’s rigid income tests but has a clear path to refinance down the road. We’re open to those deals—think equity lending, credit repair, or even bare land—if the numbers make sense. Our sweet spot is keeping LTV low for safety, often targeting below our max, and always ensuring there’s a way out.

Here’s a little local flavor: if you’ve ever visited, you know the vibe at the Tumbler Ridge Visitor Centre is pure small-town warmth—they’ll load you up with maps for trails and fossil sites before you can say “mortgage application.” It’s that kind of community spirit that makes this place special, even if the harsh winters (we’re talking Zone 3b cold) aren’t for everyone. For mortgage brokers, it’s a reminder that clients here aren’t just buying a house—they’re buying a lifestyle. And for borrowers, it’s a nudge to work with a lender like us who gets the unique dynamics of smaller towns.

At Tekamar, our tagline is “We’ll lend where other MICs won’t.” Tumbler Ridge is a prime example. We skip the Vancouver hustle and focus on places like this, where deals need a bit of extra care and creativity. Got a client or a property in mind? Let’s chat. We’re here to make it work, one small town at a time.