Property Summary: 159 McDowell Drive
Key Characteristics & Appeal
This is a well-established, spacious family home in Winnipeg's Eric Coy neighborhood. Built in 1981, it is a 4-level split with 1,737 sqft of living space, featuring a finished basement and an attached garage. Its most standout feature is the generous 10,128 sqft lot, which places it in the top 6% of all properties in Winnipeg for land size, offering exceptional outdoor space and privacy that is increasingly rare. The home's recent sale in August 2024 at $483,000, closely aligned with its $492,000 assessed value, suggests a stable and realistic market valuation.
The appeal lies in its balance of space, established community, and value. It outperforms the vast majority of Winnipeg homes for lot size and ranks highly for living area, offering more room both inside and out than typical listings. It suits buyers looking for a "blank canvas" home on a premier lot—whether that means room for children and pets to play, extensive gardening, or future expansion. It’s ideal for a practical buyer who values substantial land over a brand-new build, and who is comfortable with a property that has good "bones" and rankings but may benefit from personal updates over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does the ranking data actually tell me?
The rankings show how this property compares to others in its immediate area and across Winnipeg. For example, being in the top 6% for lot size city-wide is a significant advantage, indicating outsized outdoor space. The mixed rankings in other categories (like being newer than 64% of Winnipeg homes) paint a picture of a solid, above-average property in an established area.
2. Is a 4-level split a suitable layout for my family?
This layout offers good separation of living and sleeping areas across multiple half-levels, which can provide privacy and defined spaces. It's excellent for families who appreciate distinct zones. However, it involves more stairs than a bungalow or two-story, which is a consideration for mobility or very young children.
3. The home was built in 1981. What should I be aware of?
Homes from this era are generally well-built but may have original components, like windows, roofing, or major mechanical systems (furnace, water heater), nearing or due for replacement. A thorough inspection is key to budgeting for any necessary updates or maintenance.
4. Why is the lot size such a highlighted feature?
A lot over 10,000 sqft in the city provides uncommon potential. Beyond simple yard space, it offers long-term flexibility: room for a large shed, a potential future garage, landscaping projects, or even an addition (subject to zoning). It's a feature that is difficult to add later and contributes significantly to property value.
5. How does the recent sale price affect my offer?
The August 2024 sale provides a clear, very recent benchmark for the home's market value. It indicates what a willing buyer paid just months ago, setting a strong precedent. Any current offer would likely be negotiated in close relation to this price, depending on market conditions and the seller's motivation.