Property Overview & Appeal
This one-storey home at 217 Athlone Drive presents a compelling blend of space, updates, and established neighbourhood charm. Its key characteristic is the generous 7,200 sqft lot, which is notably larger than most in the area, offering significant outdoor potential. The home itself features a renovated basement and desirable amenities like an attached garage and a pool. Its appeal lies in this combination of a low-maintenance, single-level layout with modernized spaces and ample room for gardens, play, or expansion. The property’s assessed value has risen steadily, suggesting a well-maintained asset in a stable area.
It would suit a downsizer or empty-nester seeking a manageable layout without sacrificing yard space, or a young family looking for a move-in-ready home with room to grow outdoors. A thoughtful perspective is that while the living area is modest for the neighbourhood, the expansive lot provides a rare opportunity to extend the home or create a private outdoor oasis, something increasingly valuable. Its strong rankings for lot size and newer relative age on the street indicate a standout property on its block.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How does the pool impact insurance and utility costs?
A private pool typically increases both annual insurance premiums and seasonal utility costs for heating, filtration, and water. Prospective buyers should budget for these ongoing expenses and consider the maintenance routine required.
2. The home is older; what should I know about the renovation?
While the basement is noted as renovated, it’s important to verify the scope, permits, and quality of the work. A professional inspection is recommended to assess the integration with the older structure, including updates to plumbing, electrical, and moisture management.
3. The lot is large, but what are the restrictions?
The 7,200 sqft lot is a major asset. Buyers should check the municipal zoning bylaws to understand the full potential for additions, outbuildings, or lot division, as these rules dictate what can actually be built.
4. How does the assessed value relate to the likely selling price?
The $400k assessed value is for municipal tax purposes and is not a market appraisal. Current sale prices are influenced by market conditions, the home’s updated condition, and its desirable lot size, which may command a premium above the assessed value.
5. The home ranks lower for living area; is the layout efficient?
While the square footage is below the street average, the presence of a renovated basement effectively adds usable living space. Viewing the home in person is essential to understand if the main-floor layout and finished lower level meet your spatial needs.