Property Overview: 4930 Wilkes Avenue, Winnipeg
Key Characteristics & Appeal
This is a unique property defined by a striking contrast. The home itself is a modest, 816 sqft one-storey bungalow built in 1950, featuring an unfinished basement and no garage. Its appeal lies not in the house, but in the extraordinary land it sits on: a vast 8.64-acre (376,282 sqft) parcel in the Wilkes South area of Winnipeg. This land size places it in the top 0% of all properties in the city, offering immense privacy and space exceedingly rare within city limits.
The property suits two distinct types of buyers. First, it is ideal for a visionary owner-occupant who sees the potential to build a new, substantial residence on a truly private estate while possibly utilizing the existing house during construction or for ancillary use. Second, it is a prime candidate for developers or investors, given the sheer scale of the land, which could present future subdivision or development opportunities, subject to city zoning and approvals. Its value is fundamentally in the land, offering a blank canvas that is almost impossible to find elsewhere in Winnipeg.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the land actually usable, or is it environmentally protected?
Prospective buyers must conduct thorough due diligence. While the size is exceptional, the usability for building or subdivision depends on zoning bylaws, potential environmental factors (like soil conditions or drainage), and city planning regulations. A professional review is essential.
2. Why is the house so small compared to the lot?
The property represents a historical land holding from a time when the area was less developed. It has remained as a single holding for decades, with the original home preserved, making it a unique relic of the city's growth.
3. What are the annual property taxes like?
Taxes are based on the $416,000 assessed value. While the house is modest, the assessment reflects the tremendous value of the land. Buyers should budget for a tax bill that corresponds with a higher-value property.
4. Can I subdivide the property?
Subdivision is a complex process requiring approval from the City of Winnipeg. Its feasibility is not guaranteed and would be a primary question for any developer or investor. The current rankings suggest the lot is an outlier, which can sometimes facilitate or complicate such processes.
5. Is this a good option for someone just wanting a large backyard?
It's important to be realistic about maintenance. An 8.6-acre property requires significant upkeep (mowing, landscaping, snow clearing) which can be costly and time-consuming unless left in a natural state. It's far beyond a typical "large backyard."