Property Summary: 4 Thorn Drive, Amber Trails
Section 1: Key Characteristics & Appeal
This well-maintained, one-storey home in Amber Trails offers a practical and comfortable living space. Its key characteristics include a renovated basement, an attached garage, and a generous 5,498 sqft lot, placing it in the top half of the street for land size. Built in 2004, the house is newer than most in Winnipeg, offering modern construction fundamentals.
The primary appeal lies in its balance of space, recent updates, and established neighbourhood setting. The renovated basement adds valuable finished living area, increasing the home's functionality. While the living area is modest compared to some neighbours, the large lot provides excellent outdoor space and potential. The home suits first-time buyers or downsizers looking for a manageable single-level layout without extensive maintenance. It also appeals to value-conscious buyers who appreciate a move-in-ready basement and prefer a home that is newer than the city average, potentially meaning fewer near-term major repairs.
A less obvious perspective is the property's interesting position in the market. It sold for $550k in mid-2023, yet its assessed value is significantly lower. This may attract buyers looking for a perceived value opportunity or indicate unique features the assessment doesn't capture, warranting a closer look.
Section 2: Frequently Asked Questions
1. How does the living space compare to the neighbourhood?
At 1,262 sqft, the living area is smaller than most homes on Thorn Drive and in Amber Trails, ranking in the top 4% and 16% respectively (meaning 96% and 84% of comparable homes are larger). This suggests a more efficient or compact floor plan.
2. What does the "newer than most" build year mean for me?
Built in 2004, the home is newer than 82% of properties in Winnipeg. This typically suggests modern building codes, materials, and systems, which can mean greater energy efficiency and less immediate worry over aging components like roofing or major mechanicals.
3. Why is there a large gap between the 2023 sale price and the assessed value?
The assessed value ($48.10k) is for taxation purposes and is not a market valuation. The $550k sale price from August 2023 reflects the actual market value at that time. This discrepancy is common and highlights the importance of using recent comparable sales, not tax assessments, to determine current value.
4. Is the lot size a significant feature?
Yes. The lot is over 5,400 sqft, which is larger than half the lots on the street. This provides ample backyard space for gardening, recreation, or future additions like a deck or shed, which is a valuable asset in a newer neighbourhood.
5. What is the immediate neighbourhood like?
The listing shows several nearby properties on Thorn Drive and Templeton Avenue, indicating a tight-knit, residential street pattern typical of the Amber Trails area. The proximity of similar homes suggests a consistent, established community feel.