Williams Lake

Williams Lake sits at the heart of the Cariboo region, where the forestry industry built a community that’s learned to adapt and evolve. With nearly 11,000 residents and a maximum LTV of 60%, this city offers mortgage opportunities in a market shaped by both traditional resource economics and emerging diversification.

The famous Williams Lake Stampede draws visitors from across North America each July, but it’s the year-round outdoor recreation that keeps people here. Mountain biking trails wind through forests that change dramatically with the seasons, while nearby lakes provide summer recreation and winter ice fishing. The community’s location makes it a natural hub for the surrounding Cariboo region, supporting a retail sector that serves a much larger population than the city limits suggest.

Healthcare and social assistance employ nearly 15% of the workforce, reflecting Williams Lake’s role as a regional service center. This diversification beyond the traditional forestry base provides some economic stability, though manufacturing still accounts for over 10% of employment. The median household income of $76,500 sits below provincial averages, but housing costs remain reasonable with single-detached homes comprising nearly half of all dwellings.

Property demand benefits from the community’s appeal to retirees drawn by outdoor recreation and lower living costs. The climate has warmed significantly over recent decades, extending the growing season and making the area more attractive to those seeking four-season recreation without extreme weather.

For mortgage brokers, Williams Lake represents opportunities in a stable regional center where Tekamar’s equity-focused lending fills gaps that traditional lenders often miss. The combination of recreational appeal, regional service role, and reasonable property values creates a market where our 60% LTV approach aligns well with local conditions.