Property Overview: 133 Masson Street, Central St. Boniface
Section 1: Key Characteristics & Appeal
This is a well-maintained two-storey character home built in 1926, offering a blend of historic charm and modern updates. Its key feature is a renovated basement, adding valuable finished space to the home's 1,368 sqft of living area. The property sits on a modest, manageable lot that is smaller than most in the area, which translates to less exterior upkeep.
The appeal lies in its location within Central St. Boniface—a vibrant, historic neighbourhood—coupled with a house that has been thoughtfully updated. It suits first-time buyers or downsizers seeking a character home without a massive yard to maintain, and investors or renovators looking for a property with a solid foundation (a renovated basement) in a desirable area. A less obvious perspective is that its below-average land size for the neighbourhood might offer a relative value opportunity, as you're paying for the location and home itself rather than extensive land. The assessed value is strong for the area, suggesting the property is viewed favorably compared to its immediate neighbours.
Section 2: Frequently Asked Questions
1. How does the lot size impact this property?
The land is compact, especially compared to other lots in St. Boniface. This means lower maintenance, but also limited potential for expansions like a large addition or garage. It prioritizes the home and location over outdoor space.
2. What does the "renovated basement" entail?
The listing confirms the basement is renovated but does not specify the extent. Buyers should inquire about the quality of the renovation, ceiling height, legal egress, and whether it includes a bathroom or kitchenette to understand its full functionality and value.
3. The home is nearly 100 years old. What should I check?
While updated, a home of this age requires attention to its core systems. A thorough inspection should focus on the foundation, original plumbing and electrical updates, roof age, and historical insulation standards to anticipate any future projects.
4. There's no garage. What are parking options?
The property has no garage. Prospective buyers should verify on-site parking (likely a driveway or rear lane access) and review any street parking permits or restrictions with the city, as this is a central neighbourhood.
5. Why did the assessed value rise significantly between 2017 and 2021?
The sharp increase from a sale price of $35.6k in 2017 to $410k in 2021 likely reflects a major renovation or change in condition (such as the basement renovation) during that period, combined with strong market appreciation. It underscores the importance of understanding what improvements were made.