Property Overview: 864 Kildonan Drive
Section 1: Key Characteristics & Appeal
This one-and-a-half storey home, built in 1945, presents a classic Winnipeg character property with one standout, modern advantage: an exceptionally large, renovated basement. Its living space of 1,357 sq ft is comfortably average for the city, but the home’s true distinction lies in its land. The lot is over 20,500 sq ft, placing it in the top 1-2% of properties citywide for size. This offers rare potential for gardening, expansion, or simply enjoying substantial private outdoor space.
The appeal here is grounded in space and value. The assessed value is modest relative to the land holding, suggesting room for equity growth. It suits a practical buyer who values a large yard over a large house—perfect for families, hobbyists, or those seeking a manageable home with room to breathe and customize. The detached garage and renovated basement add functional, ready-to-use space. It’s a property for someone who sees the land as the primary asset and the solid, older home as a comfortable foundation.
Section 2: Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the large lot a benefit or a burden?
While offering exceptional privacy and potential, a lot of this size requires more maintenance and may have higher associated costs (e.g., landscaping, fencing) than a standard city lot. It’s a major perk for those who want the space, but a consideration for those seeking low upkeep.
2. How does the 1945 construction date impact the home?
The home is older than most on its street and in the city. Buyers should anticipate character-building details but also ensure professional inspections focus on aging components like the roof, foundation, and original plumbing/wiring, which may need updating.
3. The assessed value seems low for such a large lot. Why?
Municipal assessments often weigh the building’s value and features heavily. The modest assessment likely reflects the home’s older, average-sized structure. This can be an opportunity, as property taxes may be relatively lower than for a newer home on a similar lot, but the market sale price will ultimately reflect the land’s premium value.
4. What does "renovated basement" specifically mean?
The listing confirms the basement is renovated but does not specify the scope. It’s essential to ask for details: was it a cosmetic update or a full structural and moisture-proofing renovation? This clarifies its suitability as living space and informs long-term maintenance.
5. The last sale was in 2017. Should that be a concern?
Not inherently. The eight-year ownership period suggests the sellers were settled, not flipping the property quickly. It does, however, mean market conditions and prices have changed significantly since that last sale, so a current comparative market analysis is crucial to determine its present value.