Property Overview
This bi-level home at 1-658 Toronto Street presents a distinct profile within Winnipeg's Daniel McIntyre neighborhood. Its primary appeal lies in a compelling contrast: it is a modern structure in a historic area, offering a low-maintenance footprint with a recently renovated basement. Built in 2013, it is a rarity on its street and in the wider community, where most homes are over a century old. With 968 sqft of living space, it is comfortably sized for its locale, though its lot is compact compared to city-wide averages.
The property is particularly suited to first-time buyers, downsizers, or pragmatic investors seeking a newer build without the premium of a suburban location. It offers freedom from the major maintenance concerns typical of century homes, while placing the owner in a central, established community. A thoughtful perspective is that this home represents an efficient, "right-sized" urban living option, where the value is in the structure itself rather than the land. Its elite-ranked, low assessed value is a double-edged sword, suggesting very manageable property taxes but also indicating it sits in an area where market values have not yet risen to reflect its modern condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is the assessed value so much lower than the city-wide average?
Property assessments are based on market value within specific areas. This home's "elite" low assessment within Daniel McIntyre reflects the neighborhood's current overall market values, not the home's modern build quality. This typically results in significantly lower annual property taxes.
2. What does the "bi-level" design mean for daily living?
A bi-level typically has a short flight of stairs leading to the main living area (kitchen, living room) and another short flight down to the basement and/or up to bedrooms. It offers good separation of space but involves more stairs than a bungalow. The renovated basement adds valuable functional living area.
3. How does the modern build (2013) impact insurance and maintenance?
A home built to recent codes often qualifies for more favorable home insurance rates due to updated electrical, plumbing, and structural standards. Major systems like the roof, furnace, and windows will likely be younger, providing a predictable maintenance schedule and cost savings in the near to medium term.
4. The lot is noted as below average in size. What are the implications?
The 2,320 sqft lot means smaller outdoor spaces for gardening or entertaining. However, it also translates to less yard work and lower landscaping costs. It's a practical, low-maintenance urban lot, not a sprawling one.
5. Who might this property not be suitable for?
It may not suit buyers looking for a large yard, extensive outdoor space, or the classic character and architectural details of the older homes that dominate the street. Those needing extensive room for a growing family or multiple vehicles (with no garage) might also find it limiting.