Property Overview: 921 Manitoba Avenue, Winnipeg
Section 1: Key Characteristics & Appeal
This two-storey home, built in 1913, presents a compelling mix of space, value, and potential. Its standout feature is its generous 1,824 sqft of living area, which ranks in the top 4% of homes on its street and the top 2% within the Burrows Central neighbourhood. This offers significantly more interior room than most comparable properties in the immediate area. The lot size of 3,587 sqft is solid and typical for the locale, providing adequate outdoor space.
The appeal here is rooted in practicality and opportunity. The home sits on a stable, established street with a very low assessed value, suggesting a potentially manageable property tax burden. It suits a hands-on buyer or investor looking for a spacious canvas. The property is ideal for someone comfortable with a home that has an unfinished basement and likely requires updates, viewing these not as drawbacks but as a chance to add value according to personal taste. It’s a pragmatic choice for those prioritizing interior square footage and lot location over modern finishes, offering a chance to secure a large footprint in the city at an accessible entry point.
Section 2: Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does the "Elite" ranking for living area actually mean?
It means this home has more interior space than 96% of similar properties on Manitoba Avenue and 98% in the Burrows Central area. You are getting a house that is physically larger than almost all its direct neighbours.
2. The assessed value seems very low compared to the last sale price. Why?
Municipal assessed value for taxation purposes often lags behind market sale prices and is calculated using a different formula. The 2020 sale price of $210k is a more current indicator of its market value, while the low assessment could indicate a relatively lower property tax bill.
3. What are the implications of the home’s age (1913)?
While it offers classic character and sturdy construction, buyers should budget for age-related maintenance. Key systems like plumbing, electrical, or the roof may need inspection or updating. The unrenovated basement is typical for homes of this era.
4. How does the lack of a garage affect daily life and value?
This is common for older homes in the neighbourhood. Buyers should plan for street parking and consider the cost of adding a garage or sheltered parking in the future if desired. It keeps the purchase price accessible but is a lifestyle trade-off.
5. The home sold for $210k in 2020 after selling for $20.5k in 2016. What happened?
The 2016 sale price is exceptionally low and not indicative of market value—it may have been a non-arms-length transfer between family members, a sale for back taxes, or another unusual circumstance. The 2020 price is the relevant, market-based benchmark.