Property Overview & Key Characteristics
This home at 653 Garfield Street N in Winnipeg's Minto neighbourhood presents a distinct profile defined by its history and land. Built in 1905, it is notably older than most area homes, offering classic character but also implying a need for thorough maintenance and potential updates. With 755 square feet of living space, the house itself is compact, ranking below average in size for the street, area, and city. This creates a cozy, efficient footprint that minimizes upkeep.
The property's primary appeal lies in its generous 3,842 sqft lot, which is significantly larger than most on Garfield Street and in the Minto area. This above-average outdoor space is a valuable asset in an established inner-city neighbourhood, offering room for gardening, expansion, or simply enjoying private outdoor living. The assessed value is consistent with local norms, suggesting a market-aligned entry point.
This home would best suit a pragmatic buyer—perhaps a first-time homeowner, downsizer, or hands-on investor—who values land over square footage. It’s for someone who sees potential in the sizable lot and is prepared for the realities of a century-old structure, whether that means embracing its historic charm or planning for thoughtful renovations.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does the "below average" ranking for Year Built practically mean?
It means this 1905 home is among the oldest 1-2% of houses on its street and in Minto. Buyers should prioritize inspections for foundational integrity, plumbing, electrical systems, and energy efficiency, as standards and materials from over a century ago differ greatly from modern builds.
2. The living area is small, but the lot is large. What are the implications?
This combination suggests the potential for future expansion, such as an addition, a garden suite (subject to zoning), or creating extensive outdoor living space. The value proposition is shifted from immediate interior space to long-term land utility and flexibility.
3. The assessed value is around average locally but far below the city-wide average. Why?
City-wide averages are skewed by newer, larger homes in suburban areas. The assessment here aligns closely with values in the immediate Minto area, reflecting the local market for older, character homes on established streets, rather than a low valuation.
4. How reliable is the sold price range shown from 2023?
The range is based on public data, which in Manitoba often shows broad price brackets rather than exact figures. For precise historical sale prices to inform your offer, you must request the exact data via the provided email service.
5. What should I consider about the neighbourhood based on the comparable properties listed?
The "similar assessed value" homes shown are spread across different neighbourhoods (Vialoux, Varsity View), not just Minto. This indicates that at this price point, you have options in various areas, so it's wise to compare the specific street appeal, lot size, and community amenities of each location beyond just the financials.