Property Overview: 244 Elmhurst Road, Varsity View, Winnipeg
Key Characteristics & Appeal
This 1940s one-and-a-half storey home sits on a notably large, 7,644 sqft lot in the established Varsity View neighborhood. With 973 sqft of living space, no basement, and no garage, it presents a specific and compelling profile. Its primary appeal lies in its generous, flat land—a significant asset in a central area—offering immense potential for gardening, expansion, or future redevelopment. The home itself is a straightforward, no-frills canvas, ideal for a buyer comfortable with a project or seeking to minimize ongoing maintenance on auxiliary structures.
It would suit a practical, land-value-focused buyer such as a builder, an investor looking for a lot with an existing income-producing structure, or a first-time homeowner who prioritizes outdoor space and location over turnkey finishes. The property’s rankings highlight its unique position: while the home is older and modest in size compared to local averages, the lot size ranks in the top 13% city-wide, making it a standout. This is a property where the land is the central feature, and the house offers functional shelter with the freedom to renovate, add on, or eventually replace it according to the new owner's vision.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does "one-and-a-half storey" mean for this home?
Typically, it indicates a design where the second floor has sloped ceilings following the roofline, creating cozy but potentially space-efficient bedrooms. Given the era, expect original layout and character.
2. Are there any major concerns with a house built in 1940?
While offering charm, it necessitates a thorough inspection for aging components like the roof, wiring, plumbing, and insulation. The absence of a basement means all mechanical systems (furnace, water heater) are on the main floor, which affects space but can make access easier.
3. How can the large lot be utilized?
Beyond a spacious yard, the lot presents options for a significant addition, a detached garage or workshop, or even subdivision if local zoning allows (requiring separate verification). It's a long-term asset.
4. What is the impact of having no garage?
This lowers maintenance but requires consideration for vehicle parking and storage. The lot size, however, provides ample room to add a garage if desired, subject to permits.
5. The assessed value seems low relative to the lot size. Why?
Municipal assessments often weigh the existing dwelling's characteristics heavily. The modest, older home likely keeps the assessment lower, but the market value will strongly reflect the premium lot, potentially leading to a sale price significantly above the assessment.