Whistler

So, let’s talk about Whistler, British Columbia—a place that’s practically synonymous with world-class skiing, breathtaking mountain views, and a vibe that’s equal parts rugged and refined. If you’ve ever driven up the Sea to Sky Highway, you’ve felt that shift as the urban sprawl fades and the peaks of Garibaldi Provincial Park start looming. Whistler isn’t just another mountain town; it’s a global destination that’s been drawing adventurers, retirees, and vacation home buyers for decades. But what does that mean for real estate and mortgage opportunities? Stick with me, and I’ll break it down for both borrowers and brokers looking to navigate this unique market.

First off, Whistler’s appeal is undeniable. This isn’t your average small town in BC—it’s a lifestyle hub. Think vibrant village streets lined with après-ski spots like Dubh Linn Gate Irish Pub, where locals and tourists alike swap stories over a pint. The housing mix here tells a story too: you’ve got a near-even split between single-detached homes, row houses, and low-rise apartments. That diversity means options, whether someone’s hunting for a cozy condo or a sprawling chalet. For borrowers eyeing a piece of this paradise, it’s a market with strong resale potential—even in a downturn, out-of-province buyers are likely to swoop in. And brokers? You’ll find clients drawn to Whistler for its allure, but they’ll need guidance on the quirks of a tourism-driven economy.

Now, let’s get real about the economics. Whistler leans heavily on tourism—over a quarter of its workforce is tied to accommodation and food services. That’s great when the ski lifts are humming, but it also means seasonal swings and vulnerability to unexpected shocks. Add in a higher-than-average unemployment rate, and you’ve got a market that looks shiny on the surface but carries some risk beneath. For borrowers, this might mean needing a lender who understands equity over income—someone who can see the value in the property itself. Brokers, on the other hand, will want to dig into a client’s long-term plan here, ensuring there’s a clear exit strategy if things get bumpy.

At Tekamar Mortgage Fund, we’re all about lending where others won’t, with a focus on smaller towns and unique markets across BC. Our tagline, “Your MIC for towns without stop lights,” captures our willingness to look beyond the usual hotspots. But here’s the thing: Whistler’s maximum loan-to-value (LTV) with us is 0%. Why? It’s not that we don’t see the appeal—trust me, we do. It’s just that other lenders know this market inside out, and our niche lies elsewhere. We’re more about the under-the-radar gems where our expertise can really shine. So, borrowers, if Whistler’s your dream, we’ll cheer you on but point you to partners better suited for the area. And brokers, if you’ve got a deal outside the Vancouver/Fraser Valley bubble—say, in Vernon or a quieter corner of BC—give us a call. We cap at 70% LTV in bigger centers like Kelowna, but often aim for 60% elsewhere, always prioritizing a safe exit.

Whistler’s magic isn’t just in its powder or its postcard views; it’s in how it’s carved out a niche as a year-round escape. But from a mortgage perspective, it’s a specialized market best left to specialized lenders. Whether you’re a borrower dreaming of a slopeside retreat or a broker hunting for the right fit, understanding the lay of the land is half the battle. Stick with us at Tekamar, and we’ll help you find the right terrain—just maybe not in Whistler.