Property Overview
658 Dufferin Avenue is a historic one-and-three-quarter storey home in Winnipeg's Dufferin Industrial area. Built in 1909, it offers 1,116 sqft of living space on a 3,681 sqft lot. The home has a basement that is noted as being unrenovated and does not include a garage or pool. Its most recent recorded sale was in January 2019 for $90k, and its current assessed value is $9.10k.
Key Characteristics & Appeal
This property is defined by its historical roots and its position as a modest, no-frills entry point into the Winnipeg market. Its appeal lies in its simplicity and potential, rather than in modern finishes or amenities.
Key Characteristics:
- Historic & Modest: Built in 1909, the home is among the older properties in its immediate area and city-wide. It is a classic one-and-three-quarter storey design with a living area that is reasonably spacious for the neighbourhood.
- Value & Lot: The very low assessed value highlights its role as an affordable option. The lot size is fairly typical for the area, offering standard urban outdoor space.
- Condition: The listing explicitly notes the basement is "not renovated," suggesting the home is likely a fixer-upper or requires updating, which is reflected in its value metrics.
Where Its Appeal Lies:
This home is for a specific buyer looking for a blank canvas or a straightforward investment. Its primary appeal is its affordability and the opportunity it presents. It suits a hands-on buyer comfortable with renovations, an investor seeking a low-cost rental property (with the understanding that the industrial-area location influences tenant type), or someone looking for a minimal footprint with the character of an older home. A less obvious perspective is its potential for someone interested in the history and gradual restoration of Winnipeg's early 20th-century housing stock, accepting the trade-off of a less residential neighbourhood.
Ideal Buyer Profile:
- The practical first-time buyer or investor with a tight budget and a renovation plan.
- The value-focused buyer who prioritizes low carrying costs over modern conveniences.
- Someone seeking a functional property in the Dufferin Industrial area, possibly for its proximity to work or the city core.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is the assessed value so much lower than the last sale price?
Assessed values for taxation purposes can differ significantly from market sale prices, which are influenced by current buyer demand, property condition, and specific market conditions at the time of sale. The 2019 sale price of $90k represents what a buyer was willing to pay then, while the $9.10k assessment is a valuation formula used by the city for calculating property taxes.
2. What does "Dufferin Industrial" neighbourhood mean for living here?
As an industrial-area home, residents should expect a mix of residential and commercial/industrial properties. This can mean more traffic, activity during business hours, and a different streetscape compared to purely residential subdivisions. It often translates to more affordable pricing.
3. The basement is "not renovated." What should I consider?
This indicates the basement is likely in original or utilitarian condition. Potential buyers should budget for possible updates to moisture control, insulation, electrical systems, or finishing. An inspection is highly recommended to understand the scope of any needed work.
4. How does the living space compare to other homes?
At 1,116 sqft, the living area is above average for the immediate Dufferin Industrial area but slightly below the Winnipeg city-wide average. It offers a moderately sized footprint that is efficient and typical for homes of its era.
5. There's no garage. What are the parking options?
The property does not include a garage. Parking would be limited to on-street or any available driveway space. Checking local street parking regulations with the city is advisable for anyone reliant on vehicle storage.