# Kelowna, BC

> **Lending here.** Maximum LTV: 70.0%.

## Lending snapshot

Kelowna is a powerhouse regional hub where we offer up to 70% LTV. The economy is highly diversified—anchored by healthcare and UBCO—and backed by constant demand from Lower Mainland buyers. Strict geographic boundaries also limit new supply, keeping property values rock-solid.

## Key facts

- **Region:** Central Okanagan
- **Maximum LTV:** 70.0%
- **Population:** 144,576
- **Economic score:** 7/100
- **Desirability score:** 9/100

## About Kelowna

### Kelowna Market Analysis

Kelowna serves as the administrative and economic hub of the BC Interior, far surpassing its reputation as just a resort destination or a landing pad for Vancouver expats. With a population of 144,576—representing a 13.5% growth rate since 2016—this is a mature, liquid market. While we joke at Tekamar about being the MIC for towns without stoplights, Kelowna is a core market for us. The high population density of 682.4 people per square kilometer and steady real estate transaction volumes give us the confidence to offer flexible solutions here that we cannot justify in deeper rural areas.

The local economy is built on stable, non-resource sectors. Healthcare and social assistance leads employment at 14.9%, anchored by Kelowna General Hospital. Retail trade follows at 12.6%, and construction employs 10.5% of the local workforce. This diversified economic base keeps the employment rate steady at 60.2%. Underwriting here means looking at a year-round economy that remains resilient long after the summer tourists pack up and leave.

Geography physically constricts the housing market. Okanagan Lake lies to the west, and steep benchlands rise to the east, limiting sprawl across the 211.85 square kilometers of land area. Consequently, the housing inventory has evolved. While single-detached homes still make up 42.5% of the market, low-rise apartments under five storeys now account for 28.6%. Row houses and duplexes make up another 18.6%. This inventory constraint, paired with steady inbound migration, protects local property values from the sharp, sustained drops seen in single-industry towns.

For mortgage brokers, Kelowna presents a consistent stream of borrowers who possess strong equity but fall outside the strict parameters of A lenders or credit unions. We frequently see self-employed tradespeople, hospitality business owners, and professionals needing debt consolidation. Bridge financing is also common here, particularly for retirees downsizing or buyers managing tight closing timelines on their sales.

Because of the area's liquidity and a solid economic score, we view Kelowna as a low-risk region. If a file defaults, we know we can exit the property quickly compared to isolated rural pockets. This predictable exit profile allows us to push our leverage. For strong Kelowna properties, Tekamar offers a maximum LTV of **70.0%**.

We fund our mortgages using capital from friends and family, meaning capital preservation dictates every file we approve. We do not stretch past our guidelines, and we always underwrite for worst-case scenarios. But if you have a Kelowna deal with real equity that needs a practical, common-sense look, send it our way. We know the local neighborhoods and will give you a fast, straight answer.

## Mortgage products available in Kelowna

| Product | Max LTV | Terms |
|---|---|---|
| [Bare Land and Unique Properties](/mortgage_products/bare-land-or-odd-properties.md) | 65.0% | Standard product terms |
| [Bridge Financing](/mortgage_products/bridge-financing.md) | 70.0% | Standard product terms |
| [Credit Repair and Debt Consolidation](/mortgage_products/credit-repair-and-debt-consolidation.md) | 70.0% | Standard product terms |
| [Equity Lending / Refinance](/mortgage_products/equity-lending.md) | 70.0% | Standard product terms |
| [Purchases](/mortgage_products/purchases.md) | 70.0% | Standard product terms |
| [Variable Income](/mortgage_products/variable-income.md) | 70.0% | Standard product terms |

## Frequently asked questions

### What's the max LTV in Kelowna, and why is it set there?

Our max LTV is 70% because of the market's deep liquidity. If a foreclosure ever happens, there is always an equity-rich Vancouver buyer or retiree waiting in the wings to buy the property.

### What's the local economy like, and how does that affect getting a deal done?

It is highly stable and diversified, anchored by healthcare, construction, and UBCO rather than just tourism. This strong economic mix means your clients have more reliable, diverse income sources to support their files.

### What would sink a deal here?

We reserve our maximum 70% LTV for strong properties and qualified borrowers. If the property has major structural issues or the borrower lacks a clear exit strategy, we won't be able to fund it.


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