Property Overview: 657 Harstone Road
This unique property is defined by its exceptional land size and established character. Its primary appeal lies in the rare opportunity to own a large, private lot in the city, offering a canvas for outdoor living, expansion, or future development. The home itself is a modestly sized, single-storey bungalow from 1955 with a finished basement, an in-ground pool, and a detached garage.
Key Characteristics & Ideal Buyer
The standout feature is the expansive, approximately 35,000 sqft lot, which ranks in the top 1-2% of properties in Winnipeg for size. This creates a private, park-like setting uncommon within city limits. The appeal is for a buyer who values space and potential over a large, modern footprint. It perfectly suits someone looking for a tranquil retreat with room for gardens, recreation, or future building projects (subject to approvals). It would also fit a multi-generational family or an investor who sees the long-term value in the land itself. A less obvious perspective is that the home's smaller scale (951 sqft) on such a large lot offers a manageable maintenance footprint for the interior, allowing energy and resources to be focused on enjoying the extraordinary outdoor space.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How does the age of the home (1955) affect its condition and value?
While older, the home has been maintained with a finished basement. The value here is heavily weighted toward the land. Buyers should budget for updates to mechanical systems, windows, or insulation common for the era, viewing the house as a solid foundation on a premier lot.
2. Is the pool a major selling point or a liability?
This depends on the buyer. For those seeking a ready-made summer oasis, it's a fantastic feature. Others may see the maintenance and seasonal costs as a consideration. Its presence enhances the recreational appeal of the vast yard.
3. Who is responsible for maintaining such a large lot?
The owner is responsible for all maintenance. This offers total control over the landscape but requires appropriate equipment or service arrangements for lawn care, tree maintenance, and snow clearing on the long driveway.
4. Why is the assessed value notably lower than typical for a top 1% property?
Municipal assessments primarily reflect the value of the current improved property—the house and its condition—not future development potential. The significant disparity between the lot size ranking (top 1%) and the assessment ranking (top 25%) highlights that the official valuation does not fully capture the premium value of the land.
5. What are the possibilities for expanding or rebuilding on this lot?
The lot size certainly offers potential, but any expansion, addition, or new construction would require due diligence. Buyers must consult with the City of Winnipeg’s planning department to understand specific zoning bylaws, setback requirements, and any heritage or environmental considerations that may apply.