Property Overview: 468 St Jean Baptiste Street
Section 1: Key Characteristics & Appeal
This is a classic one-and-a-half storey home in Winnipeg's Central St. Boniface neighbourhood, built in 1920. It sits on a roughly 3,900 sqft lot, which is a comfortable, average size for the area. The home itself offers 998 sqft of living space and features a detached garage and a basement that is present but not renovated.
Its primary appeal lies in its location and potential. St. Boniface is a historic, culturally rich community with strong character. The property’s lot size is a solid asset for the neighbourhood, offering space for gardening, expansion, or simply more privacy than newer infill lots. The notably low assessed value, compared to both the street and city averages, suggests this could be an entry point into the area for a buyer comfortable with a home that likely requires updates. This property would suit a practical first-time buyer, an investor looking for a hold-and-renovate opportunity, or someone seeking a land-value play in a desirable central neighbourhood. It’s not a move-in-ready showhome, but a grounded property with the foundational appeal of location and lot size.
Section 2: Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does "below average" assessed value really indicate?
While the assessed value is significantly below averages, this typically reflects the home’s age, condition, and features as seen by the municipal assessor. It often correlates with a lower property tax bill, but also suggests the interior and systems may be dated, budgeting for modernization should be a key part of your planning.
2. How does the lot size compare to newer homes?
At 3,903 sqft, the lot is genuinely spacious for a central neighbourhood. It’s larger than many contemporary infill lots and provides a tangible advantage over newer builds in the area in terms of outdoor space and potential.
3. What should I expect with a 1920s build?
Character comes with considerations. You can expect solid construction but should proactively plan for inspections of foundational masonry, original wiring and plumbing, and insulation standards. The unrenovated basement is common for the era and represents both a project and an opportunity.
4. The home last sold in 2020 for $28,500. Is that relevant today?
That sale price, close to the current assessed value, is a useful data point showing it was considered a land-value or project property even then. It underscores the home’s primary value has been in its location and lot, not its finishes, for some time.
5. Who would this property NOT be suitable for?
It’s likely not a match for someone seeking a turnkey, low-maintenance home, or for those who would be strained by the costs and decisions of a renovation. The compact living area also means it may not suit a growing family without plans for an addition.