Property Overview: 842 Burnell Street, Winnipeg
Section 1: Key Characteristics & Appeal
This one and three-quarter storey home, built in 1916, presents a classic character property in the Daniel McIntyre neighbourhood. With 1,243 square feet of living space, it offers a practical footprint that is competitively sized for both its immediate street and the wider area. A key feature is the existing, unrenovated basement, which presents a clear opportunity for future expansion or customization to suit a buyer's needs.
The primary appeal lies in its value proposition and potential. The home’s assessed value is notably below the citywide average, positioning it as an accessible entry point into the Winnipeg market. It suits first-time homebuyers or practical investors looking for a character home with solid fundamentals and the space to add value over time. The lot, while smaller than some on its street, is still a manageable size for low-maintenance outdoor space. A thoughtful perspective for this property is to view it as a "blank canvas within a historic shell." Its around-average metrics for size and age in the neighbourhood suggest it hasn’t been extensively modernized, meaning a buyer can shape it to their tastes without paying a premium for someone else’s renovations.
Section 2: Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does "one and three-quarter storey" mean for this home?
This is a common architectural style for homes of this era. It typically means the second floor has full-height ceilings under the roofline at the front, but the ceilings may slope or the space may be configured differently at the rear under the roofline, often creating cozy bedrooms or unique spaces.
2. The assessed value seems low. What does this indicate?
The assessed value is for municipal tax purposes and is not the market price. A value below city and street averages can reflect the home’s age, the unrenovated condition, and its specific location. It often translates to relatively lower property taxes, which is a positive for ongoing affordability.
3. What are the implications of an unrenovated basement?
This means the basement space is functional but likely lacks modern finishes. It offers significant potential for future development (like creating a family room, suite, or additional storage) but will require investment. A pre-purchase inspection is crucial to check for foundational integrity, moisture, and updating needs for plumbing/electrical.
4. How does the land size affect this property?
At 2,816 sqft, the lot is smaller than many in Winnipeg but is fairly typical for the central Daniel McIntyre area. This means lower outdoor maintenance, but it may limit options for large additions, decks, or extensive landscaping compared to properties on larger lots.
5. The home is over 100 years old. What should I be most concerned about?
While charm is a major draw, key due diligence items for a century-old home include the condition of the foundation, roof, wiring, plumbing, and insulation. An inspection is non-negotiable to understand what maintenance or updates are immediately necessary versus those that can be planned for the future.