Ever driven through a small town and thought, “Who even lives here?” Well, Warfield, British Columbia, might just surprise you. Tucked away in the Kootenay region near Trail, this little community of about 1,750 people has a quiet charm that’s hard to ignore. It’s not just another sleepy spot—it’s a place with real potential for homeowners and savvy mortgage brokers alike. At Tekamar Mortgage Fund, we see Warfield as part of our sweet spot: small-town BC, where we love to lend when others won’t.
What makes Warfield stand out? For starters, it’s got a lifestyle vibe that’s tough to beat, especially if you’re into the outdoors. You’re a stone’s throw from Red Mountain for skiing and the Selkirk Mountains for hiking. It’s no wonder retirees and families looking for a slower pace are drawn here. From a real estate perspective, that translates to steady demand, even in a town this size. For borrowers, that means properties here can hold value over time, even if the market wobbles. And brokers, you’ll appreciate knowing there’s a built-in buyer pool for a quick exit if needed.
Housing here leans heavily on single-detached homes—over 80% of the stock. That’s a big plus for us at Tekamar since these properties are often easier to appraise and sell compared to quirky or niche builds. We’re comfortable lending up to a maximum loan-to-value (LTV) of 60% in Warfield, provided the deal makes sense. That’s not a blanket promise—construction loans or second mortgages might nudge that number down—but it’s a solid starting point. For borrowers, this means you’ve got room to tap into equity for things like debt consolidation or credit repair, even if traditional banks say no. Brokers, if your client’s got a decent down payment and a clear exit strategy, let’s chat.
Another thing to note: Warfield’s got a warming climate trend, which sounds odd to mention in a mortgage piece, but hear me out. A longer growing season and milder winters make it more appealing for year-round living, especially for those downsizing or seeking a lifestyle shift. That’s a subtle boost to property desirability—something I’ve seen matter more than you’d think in smaller markets. Whether you’re a borrower dreaming of a garden that doesn’t freeze by September or a broker sizing up resale potential, it’s a detail worth noting.
Economically, Warfield isn’t a powerhouse, with health care leading local jobs and some manufacturing exposure. That means a bit of risk if resource industries dip, but proximity to larger hubs like Trail helps with access to amenities and services. For us at Tekamar, it’s all about balancing that risk with low LTVs to ensure we can recover funds if things go sideways. Borrowers, if your income’s a bit shaky but your equity’s strong, we’re open to creative solutions. Brokers, bring us those deals—especially where banks balk at non-income-qualifying clients.
Warfield might not have a stoplight, but it fits right into our tagline: “Your MIC for towns without stop lights.” We’ve been lending in places like this for over 20 years, focusing on equity and safe exits over flashy urban markets. If you’re a borrower needing a lender who gets small-town dynamics, or a broker with a deal that’s been turned down elsewhere, Warfield’s the kind of place we want to work in. Give us a call—let’s make it happen.