877 Bannatyne Avenue

Key Characteristics & Buyer Profile

This 1929 home on Bannatyne Avenue in West Alexander offers 1,273 square feet of living space on a notably large 5,137-square-foot lot. The property sits in an older, established neighbourhood where most homes were built between 1920 and 1940. What stands out here is not the house itself but the land: the lot ranks in the top 18% on its street and top 12% within the neighbourhood, meaning it's significantly larger than typical properties nearby. The assessed value of $244,000 is above average for both the street and the neighbourhood, reflecting that land premium. However, compared to citywide averages—where newer, larger homes push the median assessed value to $390,000—this property is priced well below.

The appeal lies in the trade-off. You get a modest older home on an unusually generous lot in a central neighbourhood, at a price that undercuts much of the city. It would suit buyers who prioritize outdoor space, garden potential, or future expansion over a move-in-ready, updated interior. It could also appeal to someone looking for a solid entry point into the market without stretching into higher-priced newer subdivisions. The 1929 construction means character details are likely, but so are maintenance considerations—this is not a house for someone expecting modern finishes or low upkeep. It suits a buyer who sees value in location and land, and is comfortable with a home that needs attention over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How does the assessed value compare to other homes in the area, and what factors drive it?
On Bannatyne Avenue, the assessed value of $244,000 ranks in the top 28% (above the street average of $210,600). Within West Alexander, it ranks in the top 17% (above the neighbourhood average of $187,300). The higher value is likely driven by the larger-than-average lot rather than the house itself, since the living area and age are close to neighbourhood norms. Citywide, however, it falls well below average—the median assessed home in Winnipeg is $390,100—which reflects how affordable this property is relative to the broader market.

2. What does "below average" citywide ranking for year built mean for maintenance or renovations?
The house was built in 1929, placing it in the oldest 17% of homes citywide. This means you can expect older systems (electrical, plumbing, heating) that may not meet current codes, along with windows, insulation, and roofing that could be nearing end-of-life. The upside is that many pre-war homes in Winnipeg were built with durable materials like solid wood framing and brick, so the bones can be good. A thorough inspection is essential to understand what's original and what's been updated.

3. The lot is 5,137 square feet—what can you realistically do with that space in this neighbourhood?
That's roughly 50% larger than the average lot on the street (3,898 sqft) and in the neighbourhood (3,591 sqft). Options include a substantial garden, a detached garage or workshop, a patio, or even a secondary suite if zoning allows. In an older, central area like West Alexander, large lots are becoming rarer, so the potential for expansion or redevelopment adds long-term value—but always check local zoning and setback rules before planning any major changes.

4. How does the living area compare to typical homes in West Alexander, and does it feel cramped?
At 1,273 square feet, this home is close to the neighbourhood average of 1,299 sqft. It ranks in the top 46% citywide, meaning it's not unusually small or large for Winnipeg. For a couple or small family, it would feel comfortable. The actual layout matters more than the raw number—older homes often have separate rooms rather than open-concept spaces, which can make the square footage feel different. If you're used to modern layouts, it's worth visiting in person to judge flow and storage.

5. What type of buyer typically ends up choosing a property like this?
Often it's someone who values a central location and outdoor space more than a turnkey home. First-time buyers looking to build equity through gradual improvements, or people with renovation experience who can handle older systems, are common. It also appeals to those who want to avoid the cookie-cutter feel of newer subdivisions—there's a character to a 1920s house that's hard to replicate. Less obvious: it might suit a buyer who plans to hold the property long-term and eventually subdivide or build on the oversized lot, given the land's strong relative value in the neighbourhood.