638 Burrows Avenue – Property Summary
Key Characteristics & Buyer Profile
This is a 1,364 sqft single-family home on a 2,727 sqft lot, built in 1907. The property stands out most clearly in its immediate neighbourhood. Within William Whyte, its assessed value of $228,000 ranks in the top 10% – significantly above the neighbourhood average of $149,100. The living area is also above average for both the street (top 18%) and the neighbourhood (top 24%), giving it more interior space than many nearby homes.
The lot size, however, is on the smaller side – below average on the street, in the neighbourhood, and citywide. The year built (1907) is older than most comparable homes in all three scopes, which is typical for this area but worth noting for maintenance expectations.
The primary appeal is getting more house for a relatively moderate assessed value, especially compared to citywide averages. You're paying a premium within William Whyte, but the home offers above-average square footage and sits in a pocket where values have outpaced the surrounding area. It's less suited for buyers seeking a large yard, modern construction, or a move-in-ready property with no age-related considerations. It would suit someone comfortable with an older home who prioritizes interior space and is looking for a property that already reflects some of the neighbourhood's upward value trend – not a fixer-upper priced at the bottom, but not a fully renovated showpiece either.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is this home in a heritage or conservation district that would restrict renovations?
The property data does not indicate any overlay designations. Given the 1907 build date and William Whyte's mix of pre-war homes, it's worth checking with the city's zoning and permits office before planning major exterior changes, but nothing in the rankings suggests a protected status.
2. The assessed value is above the neighbourhood average but well below the city average – does that mean it's undervalued?
Not necessarily. The neighbourhood average ($149,100) is low relative to the city ($390,100), so being in the top 10% of William Whyte still lands well below the citywide median. It suggests this is one of the stronger-valued properties in its immediate area, not that it's a hidden bargain relative to the whole city.
3. How do the living area and lot size compare to other 1907 homes in Winnipeg?
The citywide data groups homes by "comparable" characteristics, not by year alone. However, the year built ranking (bottom 4% citywide) means this is older than 96% of comparable homes across Winnipeg. Smaller lots are also common for older inner-city properties, and this lot is smaller than 92% of comparable citywide homes – so the pattern is consistent with its age and location.
4. What would typical upkeep look like for a home built in 1907?
Foundations, electrical, plumbing, and insulation are the main areas where a home this age may need attention unless previously updated. The property's assessed value being above the street average suggests it's not in derelict condition, but a proper inspection should focus on knob-and-tube wiring, lead pipes, and whether the original foundation has been reinforced. Older homes in William Whyte vary widely in how much modernization has been done.
5. Why is the street-level value ranking only average (top 49%) if the neighbourhood ranking is so high (top 10%)?
The street (Burrows Avenue) has a significantly higher average assessed value ($227,300) than the broader neighbourhood ($149,100). So while this home performs well against the neighbourhood, it's merely average for its own street – meaning Burrows Avenue is one of the stronger corridors within William Whyte. You're buying into a relatively high-value block, but not the top end of it.