275 Burrows Avenue – Property Summary
Key Characteristics & Buyer Profile
This is a large, older home on an unusually generous lot. The living area is 3,592 square feet—by far the biggest on its street and in the surrounding neighbourhood, ranking in the top 1% in both categories citywide. The land is similarly exceptional: 6,529 square feet, placing it in the top 2% on the street and top 1% in the area, though citywide the lot size is just above average for comparable homes.
The house was built in 1911, which makes it older than most properties on the street, in the neighbourhood, and across Winnipeg. The assessed value tells a mixed story: it’s above average for the immediate street and well above the neighbourhood average, but sits below the citywide average for comparable homes. This likely reflects the age and condition of the structure relative to larger or newer homes elsewhere.
The appeal here is straightforward for the right buyer: you get a massive house and a very large lot in a neighbourhood where most properties are much smaller on both counts. That means more interior space to work with and more outdoor land than typical, at a price that—based on assessment—hasn’t yet caught up to citywide levels. It would suit a buyer looking for square footage and lot size over modernity, someone willing to take on an older home in a transitional or up-and-coming area. It’s less suited for someone wanting a turnkey, low-maintenance property in a prime location unless they’re prepared to invest significantly in updates.
Five Possible FAQs
1. How is the assessed value so much lower than the citywide average if the house is so large?
The citywide average assessed value ($390k) includes many newer homes in higher-demand areas. This property’s age (1911) and its location in a neighbourhood with a lower average value ($149k) likely keep its assessment relatively moderate, despite its size. Assessed value isn’t just about square footage—location, condition, and recent sale comparables all factor in.
2. Is the living area truly usable, or is some of it basement or attic space?
The data provided lists 3,592 square feet as “living area,” which typically refers to finished, above-grade space. That said, for a house built in 1911, you’d want to confirm how much of that is original layout versus finished later, and whether any rooms have quirks like low ceilings or awkward access.
3. The land area is very large for the street and neighbourhood—does that mean it could be subdivided?
It’s possible, but not guaranteed. City zoning, lot dimensions, and access to utilities would all determine whether subdivision is allowed. A 6,529 sqft lot is generous, but you’d need to check local land-use policies and whether the lot meets minimum size requirements for a second dwelling or parcel.
4. Why is the year built ranked “below average” citywide but “around average” in the neighbourhood?
The neighbourhood (William Whyte) has an average build year of 1927, so a 1911 house is relatively close to that median. Citywide, the average is 1966, making this house substantially older than most homes in Winnipeg as a whole. In the neighbourhood, old homes are the norm; citywide, they’re an exception.
5. What are the risks of buying a home that ranks so high for living area and land but lower for assessed value?
The main risk is that the property may need significant work—older homes often have outdated systems, foundations, or layouts that don’t match modern expectations. The low assessment relative to size might reflect deferred maintenance or neighbourhood stigma. The upside is that you’re buying a lot of physical asset for the price, and if the area improves, the value could rise faster than smaller, newer homes.