31 Bernier Bay – Property Summary
Key Characteristics & Buyer Profile
This is a 1956-built home with an 816 sqft living area and a notably large 8,402 sqft lot. The living space is smaller than average on its street, within its community (Windsor Park), and citywide (Winnipeg), ranking in the bottom 10% or lower across all three levels. Its assessed value of $355,000 is close to the average for the neighbourhood and the city, suggesting the pricing aligns well with local norms rather than being inflated or undercut. The standout feature is the land: the lot is in the top 4% of the community and top 10% citywide, significantly above average. The construction year, while older than much of the surrounding area, is actually very early within its own street (second earliest out of 54 homes), indicating it may be one of the original builds in that stretch.
The appeal lies in the land-to-living-space ratio. A buyer here isn’t paying for square footage inside—they’re paying for outdoor space at a reasonable valuation. This suits someone who values yard area, gardening, possible expansion or outbuilding potential, or simply wants more separation from neighbours without moving to a more expensive district. It may also appeal to buyers who prefer an older character home as a base for future renovation, especially given the lot’s size allows for redevelopment options that tighter parcels wouldn’t. It’s less suited to buyers seeking a move-in-ready, larger interior or a newer structure.
Five Possible FAQs
1. How does the living area affect resale value?
The home’s living space is small relative to most comparable properties in the area, which could be a limiting factor for buyers who prioritise interior size. However, the lot size is a strong compensating asset. Resale value will likely depend on how the property’s land is used, and whether the house is upgraded or expanded to better match the lot’s potential.
2. Is the assessed value of $355,000 reasonable?
Yes. The assessment is close to the average for the neighbourhood and somewhat below the citywide average. Given the land is large and the house is small, the valuation reflects the structure’s age and size while still accounting for the lot’s prominence. It’s a balanced figure, not a bargain or an overreach.
3. What’s the condition of a 1956-built home likely to be?
That depends on maintenance history, which isn’t provided here. Homes from that era in Winnipeg often have updated mechanicals, but not always. A 1956 build may have original wiring, plumbing, or insulation that needs attention. A thorough inspection is advisable, especially given its age relative to newer homes in the broader community.
4. Can I build an addition or a secondary suite on this lot?
The lot at 8,402 sqft is larger than most in the area, which may offer more flexibility for additions, a garage, or a secondary dwelling. However, zoning rules and setbacks in Windsor Park would determine what’s actually allowed. It’s worth checking with the city before planning any major changes.
5. How does this property compare to others on Bernier Bay?
On its own street, this home has one of the smallest living areas and one of the largest lots. In terms of assessed value, it’s near the average. The building is also the second oldest on the street. So it stands out as a smaller, older house with a generous yard—somewhat of an outlier in a street where other homes are generally more uniform in size and age.