Here is the property summary for 222 Harper Avenue, written for direct display.
Key Characteristics & Buyer Profile
This 1961 bungalow in Windsor Park offers a compact, functional footprint with a living area that sits slightly above both the street and neighborhood averages. Its real standout feature is its age—it is one of the older homes on Harper Avenue (Top 9%)—which often signals solid original construction and mature landscaping. The trade-off is lot size and assessed value: the 2,664 sqft lot is significantly smaller than the surrounding average (5,435 sqft on the street), and the assessed value at $260,000 is well below both the neighborhood ($354.2k) and citywide ($390.1k) medians.
The appeal lies in the intersection of lower market entry cost and a living space that is not cramped. Buyers are paying for interior square footage, not land or recent renovations. This property would suit someone who wants a home that is already comfortably sized for daily living but is willing to accept a modest lot and an older structure that may need system updates. It is also a strong candidate for a buyer looking to build equity over time through gradual interior improvements, rather than flipping or chasing a turn-key finish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What does the below-average assessed value actually tell me about the house?
Assessed value in Winnipeg reflects market conditions as of a fixed date, but it is not a direct replacement for a private appraisal. A value of $260,000—ranking in the bottom third across the city—likely reflects the smaller lot size and the home’s age more than its condition. It can be a useful anchor for property taxes, but expect the actual sale price to vary depending on competition and recent interior updates.
2. How much does the small lot limit future expansion or outdoor living?
At 2,664 sqft, the lot is roughly half the size of the typical Windsor Park property. This usually means limited side yard space and a smaller backyard, which may restrict adding a detached garage or a large deck without a variance. However, it also means less yard maintenance and a smaller footprint for snow clearing and lawn care.
3. Is a 1961 build a liability or an advantage for a first-time buyer?
It depends on the maintenance history. Homes from the early 1960s in Winnipeg often have robust foundations and good-quality lumber, but they may lack modern insulation, have aging electrical systems, or outdated plumbing. A buyer should budget for a thorough home inspection and consider whether windows, furnace, and roof have been replaced. The upside is that original materials in these homes were often built to last, and the layout is usually simpler and easier to renovate.
4. Why is the living area listed as “above average” on the street but “around average” in the neighbourhood?
Harper Avenue itself has a slightly lower average living area (1,069 sqft) than the broader Windsor Park neighbourhood (1,091 sqft). This means the home’s 1,092 sqft makes it a larger option on this particular street, while still being typical for the area as a whole. The ranking mostly matters for resale: homes with above-average space for a given street often attract more interest.
5. Would this property work as a rental investment?
Given the low assessed value relative to the citywide average, the purchase price can potentially support a lower mortgage. The living area is comparable to a small two-bedroom or compact three-bedroom unit, which is common for rental demand in Windsor Park. The main drawback for a landlord is the small lot—it leaves less room for adding a secondary suite or for tenants who need a large yard. The property is best suited as a single-family rental targeting a single person or a couple.