Property Overview: 749 Selkirk Avenue
Key Characteristics & Buyer Profile
This is a 767-square-foot home built in 1905, situated on a 2,592-square-foot lot in Winnipeg’s William Whyte neighbourhood. Compared to nearby properties on Selkirk Avenue, it’s smaller than average in both living area and lot size, and older than most homes on the street. The assessed value sits at $112,000—well below the street average of $193,800.
The appeal here is straightforward: it’s a lower-cost entry point in a mature central neighbourhood. The assessed value ranks near the very bottom citywide (top 99% of lowest values), which keeps property taxes relatively modest. For a buyer who’s comfortable with an older, smaller home and wants to avoid the price pressures of newer or larger properties nearby, this represents a budget-friendly option. It would suit first-time buyers with limited funds, investors looking for a lower-cost rental property in an established area, or someone willing to take on renovation work. That said, the below-average rankings across living area, land, and age mean you’re trading space and modern finishes for affordability—there’s no hidden upside in square footage or lot size to bank on.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How does this home’s assessed value compare to others in the city?
The assessed value of $112,000 places it in the bottom 1% of homes citywide. That’s significantly lower than the Winnipeg average of $390,100. Within the William Whyte neighbourhood, it’s roughly average—ranking 1,148 out of 1,707 properties.
2. Is the 1905 build date a concern?
It’s older than 98% of homes in Winnipeg, and older than most on its street (average build year is 1938). This means potential for outdated electrical, plumbing, or foundation issues. A thorough inspection is advisable, especially for knob-and-tube wiring or lead pipes common in homes of this era. On the plus side, older homes in this area often have solid wood framing and character details.
3. Why is the living area so much smaller than average?
At 767 square feet, it’s about 300 square feet smaller than the typical home on Selkirk Avenue and nearly half the size of the citywide average. This isn’t unusual for a 1905 worker’s cottage—many original homes in the neighbourhood were built compact. It means less usable space for living, storage, and entertaining, but also lower utility and maintenance costs.
4. What does the lot size mean in practical terms?
The 2,592-square-foot lot is below average for both the street and neighbourhood. You’ll have a small yard—suitable for a garden or small patio, but not for large gatherings, multiple vehicles, or a detached garage without sacrificing outdoor space. Check zoning for any potential lane or secondary suite opportunities, though the lot size may limit options.
5. How does this property rank as an investment?
The low assessed value suggests limited immediate appreciation pressure, but it also means lower holding costs. The William Whyte neighbourhood has seen some reinvestment in recent years, though it’s not a high-demand area by city standards. Rental yields could be reasonable given the purchase price, but resale value will depend on whether you improve the home or the area sees broader revitalization. It’s a speculative play, not a sure bet.