Property Overview
This 1910 two-and-a-half storey home on Lilac Street in Earl Grey offers a classic Winnipeg character home experience. With 1,272 sqft of living space and a 2,520 sqft lot, its size is consistently average or slightly below average for its immediate street, neighbourhood, and the wider city, positioning it as a manageable, midsize property. Its appeal lies in its established location within a sought-after neighbourhood and the potential inherent in a well-maintained but unrenovated basement. The home’s assessed value is modest relative to the city, suggesting a potentially accessible entry point into the Earl Grey area.
This property would best suit a buyer who values neighbourhood character over modern size standards and is comfortable with a home whose origins are over a century old. It’s a practical fit for first-time buyers or downsizers seeking a foothold in a mature community without the premium of a fully updated or larger lot. A thoughtful perspective is that its very "averageness" in key metrics for the area could represent stability and a realistic valuation, rather than standing out as an over-improved or under-sized anomaly.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does "basement not renovated" typically imply?
It generally means the basement is in functional, original condition. Expect a concrete floor, basic finishes, and older mechanical systems (like the furnace or plumbing). It presents both a blank canvas for future finishing and a potential budget item for updates or moisture management.
2. How does the lack of a garage affect daily life and value?
On-street parking is the norm here. This is a common trade-off in older, central neighbourhoods and contributes to the lower assessed value. Buyers should consider their comfort with street parking year-round and the potential for adding a parking pad, subject to city bylaws.
3. The home is older than most on the street and in the city. Should I be concerned?
Its 1910 build date places it in the older tier locally. This primarily means potential for older wiring, plumbing, and insulation. A thorough inspection is essential, but many homes of this era in Earl Grey have been steadily maintained and updated over time.
4. The lot is smaller than many in Winnipeg. Is that a drawback?
The lot is compact by wider city standards but is closer to the norm for the central Earl Grey area. This means lower maintenance and less outdoor upkeep, which can be a benefit for some, but limits possibilities for large additions or extensive landscaping.
5. The assessed value seems low compared to sale prices. Why?
Manitoba’s assessed value for tax purposes often lags behind market value and is based on a mass appraisal system. The last recorded sale was in 2022 for $35,200, which is closer to a current market indicator than the $33,100 assessed value. Always base your offer on recent comparable sales, not the assessment.