Property Overview: 285 Harbison Avenue W
Key Characteristics & Appeal
This is a very compact, century-old home (built 1910) on a modest lot in Winnipeg's Chalmers neighborhood. The data clearly defines its niche: with only 576 sqft of living space and a lot size of 1,943 sqft, it ranks in the bottom 1-2% of the city for both metrics. The assessed value is correspondingly low, placing it at the absolute bottom of the scale compared to other homes. There is no basement, garage, or pool.
Its primary appeal is its extreme affordability and minimal footprint, presenting a unique opportunity. This property would not suit a typical family buyer. Instead, it is a candidate for a specific, budget-conscious purchaser such as an investor looking for a straightforward rental property, a buyer seeking the absolute lowest entry point into homeownership, or someone interested in a small-scale redevelopment project, given the lot size, which is larger than the home itself. It represents a utilitarian real estate holding rather than a conventional family home.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is the assessed value so low compared to the city average?
The assessed value reflects the property's very small size, age, and basic characteristics relative to the broader market. It is priced for its land and existing structure as-is, not for comparability with standard family homes.
2. What type of renovation or repair should I expect with a 1910 build?
Buyers should budget for and anticipate updates to fundamental systems. While the roof, wiring, and plumbing may have been updated over the decades, a professional inspection is essential to understand the current condition and necessary investments.
3. Is this property suitable as a primary residence?
It could serve as a very basic primary residence for a single person or couple with minimal space needs. The lack of basement storage and small square footage requires a minimalist lifestyle. Its suitability is highly dependent on the buyer's tolerance for a compact living environment.
4. What are the potential uses for the land?
The lot, while below average in size, is significantly larger than the footprint of the current house. This discrepancy may interest buyers with a long-term view toward eventually replacing the existing structure, subject to local zoning and bylaws.
5. How does the recent sale history inform the current value?
The property sold for $8,300 in June 2021, which is closely aligned with its current assessed value. This recent transaction supports the valuation as a stable, low-cost asset in its segment of the market.