32 Purcell Avenue – Property Summary
Key Characteristics & Buyer Profile
This 1912 home in Winnipeg’s Wolseley neighbourhood stands out most for its size. At 2,594 square feet of living area, it ranks in the top 2% citywide and is the largest home on Purcell Avenue. The lot is a more modest 3,398 square feet—below the city average of 6,570—which means the house itself takes up a larger share of the property. The assessed value of $352,000 is essentially average for the street and neighbourhood, and slightly below the citywide comparable average of $390,100.
The appeal here is space per dollar. You’re getting a home that’s nearly double the citywide average living area, at a price that’s under that average. The trade-off is age and land. Built in 1912, it’s older than 92% of homes citywide, which will come with maintenance considerations. The smaller lot also means less outdoor space than many newer suburban homes.
This property suits buyers who prioritize interior square footage over a large yard, and who are comfortable with an older home’s character and upkeep. It would also appeal to someone looking for a Wolseley location—a walkable, established central neighbourhood—without paying a premium for a fully renovated or recent-build house. Value-conscious buyers who see potential in updating an older, generously sized home rather than buying something smaller and newer may find this a practical fit.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How does the living area compare to other homes nearby?
It is the largest home on Purcell Avenue, at 2,594 sqft. The street average is 2,102 sqft, and the neighbourhood average for comparable homes is 1,622 sqft. Citywide, it ranks in the top 2% of similar properties.
2. Why is the assessed value only around average when the house is so much bigger?
Assessed value reflects market factors including location, condition, age, and lot size. While the home is large, it is also over a century old and sits on a lot that is about half the citywide average. Older homes with original features or deferred updates typically appraise lower per square foot than newer construction.
3. Is the small lot a problem for this property?
It depends on your needs. The 3,398 sqft lot is typical for Wolseley and for Purcell Avenue specifically, where the average is 3,423 sqft. It is below the citywide average, but in a central, older neighbourhood, smaller lots are common. If you want a large garden or space for additions, this may feel tight.
4. What should I expect from a home built in 1912?
Older homes often have solid construction, character details, and established landscaping. They also commonly need updates to electrical, plumbing, insulation, and windows. Because this home ranks in the top 8% for age on its street but bottom 92% citywide, it is old even by local standards. A thorough inspection is strongly recommended.
5. How does this property compare to newer homes in the suburbs?
It offers significantly more interior space than most new suburban homes at a similar price point. However, newer homes typically have larger lots, modern systems, and energy efficiency. This property is a trade-off: you get a central location and generous square footage, but you take on an older structure and a smaller yard.