961 Telfer Street N

Property Overview

This home at 961 Telfer Street N in Winnipeg’s Minto neighbourhood presents a specific and practical value proposition. Its key characteristic is its compact size, with 676 sqft of living space, which is notably smaller than most homes on its street, in Minto, and across the city. Built in 1958, it is a relatively newer structure compared to many in its immediate area. The lot size of 3,374 sqft is a positive differentiator, offering above-average outdoor space for the street. With a recently sold price in the $200k-$250k range and a low assessed value, its primary appeal lies in affordability and lower ongoing property taxes. This property would suit first-time buyers seeking an entry point into homeownership, investors looking for a rental property with a manageable overhead, or downsizers who prioritize a smaller interior footprint but still want a decent-sized yard without a high tax burden.

A less obvious perspective is that this home represents an efficient use of space in a mature neighbourhood. Its newer build date (compared to neighbours) could mean fewer immediate concerns with outdated infrastructure common in century-old homes. The significant lot size also offers potential for future expansion or landscaping, providing a tangible asset that the interior square footage alone does not reflect.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why is the living area so much smaller than the neighbourhood average?
This is a compact, likely one-storey or bungalow-style home built in the post-war era, designed for efficiency. Many surrounding homes in Minto are larger, older character homes, making this property stand out for its modest interior scale.

2. What does the sold price range ($200k-$250k) and low assessed value ($23.7k) mean for me?
The recent sale indicates the market value is significantly higher than the city’s assessed value for tax purposes. This generally translates to lower annual property taxes, which is a key ongoing cost saving for the owner.

3. Is the 1958 build date an advantage?
Potentially, yes. While not new, it is a more modern build than many homes in Minto (where averages date to the 1920s-30s). This could mean updates to core systems like electrical or plumbing have already been addressed, and it may lack some of the maintenance challenges of a true century-old home.

4. Who would this property not be well-suited for?
It would likely not suit buyers who need multiple bedrooms, dedicated home office space, or who prefer a larger, more modern interior layout. Growing families or those who entertain frequently might find the living area constraining.

5. The lot is larger than average for the street. What are the implications?
This is a notable feature. It offers more private outdoor space than neighbours, room for gardening, storage sheds, or recreational use. It also provides a buffer from adjacent homes and could be a factor for future renovation potential, subject to local zoning bylaws.