Property Overview & Key Characteristics
This one-and-a-half storey home, built in 1914, presents a practical opportunity in Winnipeg's Chalmers neighbourhood. Its primary appeal lies in its efficient use of space and its position on a decent-sized lot. With 1,040 sqft of living area, the home is notably larger than many comparable houses on its own street and within Chalmers, offering more interior room than one might initially expect for a home of this era. The property includes a detached garage and an unrenovated basement, presenting a classic "blank canvas" scenario.
The home’s assessed value is significantly below average at every comparison level—street, neighbourhood, and city-wide. This positions it as an accessible entry point into the market. The lot, while below the city average, is actually around the average size for Dearborn Avenue itself, suggesting a streetscape of consistent, manageable properties.
This property would suit a first-time buyer or an investor looking for a straightforward, no-frills home where value is defined more by land and square footage than by modern finishes. It’s also a candidate for someone with a vision for gradual renovation, starting with the basement and cosmetic updates, without the premium of a previously modernized home.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does the "below average" assessed value mean for property taxes?
A lower assessed value typically translates to lower municipal property taxes compared to similar-sized homes with higher assessments, which can be a meaningful ongoing saving.
2. The basement is "not renovated." What condition should I expect?
This typically indicates a foundational, utilitarian space. Expect a concrete floor, basic walls, and mechanical systems like the furnace and water heater. It’s functional for storage and laundry but would require investment to become finished living space.
3. The home is older (1914). Are there any potential advantages to that?
Homes from this period often feature solid construction, higher-quality lumber, and architectural character (like the one-and-a-half storey layout) that can be appealing. Its above-average ranking for year-built on its street suggests it is actually one of the newer homes in that immediate block.
4. How does the lot size compare practically?
At 2,587 sqft, the lot is very typical for Dearborn Avenue. It provides adequate outdoor space for a garden, patio, or play area, but is not an unusually large or sprawling property. It matches the neighbourhood scale.
5. Is the living area spread over multiple floors?
As a one-and-a-half storey home, the 1,040 sqft is distributed over the main floor and a partial upper level. This often means cozy, character-filled bedrooms in the upstairs "half" storey, which is a common and efficient design for homes of this age.