530 Stiles Street – Property Summary
Key Characteristics & Buyer Profile
This 1,224 sqft home on Stiles Street in Wolseley was built in 1910 and sits on a 2,194 sqft lot. The assessed value for tax purposes is $325,000.
Where the appeal lies: The property performs well relative to others on the same street. Its assessed value ranks in the top 20% of Stiles Street, and its living area sits slightly above the street average. The location offers a chance to own in Wolseley, an established inner-city neighbourhood with character, without paying a premium for a larger lot or a newer build. The trade-off is clear: the land is small (bottom 2% in the neighbourhood, bottom 1% citywide), and the house is old (built before most of the city’s housing stock). This is not a property for someone looking for space or a turnkey modern home. It’s a home for a buyer who values the street, the neighbourhood context, and possibly the bones of an older house—and who is willing to work within the constraints of a compact lot.
Who it suits: Buyers who are comfortable with an older home in a central, established area. First-time buyers looking for something smaller and more affordable than the Wolseley average. Renovators or owners who see potential in updating a house that’s priced below the neighbourhood median. Not ideal for families wanting a large backyard, or for investors focused on land value appreciation.
Five Possible FAQs
1. How does the property compare to others in Wolseley?
The home is smaller than the Wolseley average for both living area (1,224 sqft vs. 1,622 sqft) and lot size (2,194 sqft vs. 3,434 sqft). The assessed value is close to the neighbourhood median. In short, it’s a more modest property within a desirable area.
2. Is the assessed value of $325,000 a reliable indicator of market price?
Assessed value is used for property tax calculation and reflects the city’s estimate of market value as of a certain base date. It can be a useful benchmark, but market prices depend on condition, upgrades, demand, and recent sales. A property that’s smaller and older than the neighbourhood average may sell for less than assessed, or more if it’s been well-maintained and updated.
3. What does the 1910 build date mean practically?
It means the house is over 110 years old. Mechanical systems, insulation, wiring, and plumbing may be original or updated at various points. Buyers should budget for a thorough home inspection and possible upgrades. The house is older than 94% of properties citywide, so age-related maintenance should be expected.
4. The lot is very small. What are the implications?
The 2,194 sqft lot is well below average for the street, the neighbourhood, and the city. Outdoor space will be limited. There’s little room for expansion, and the property may not appeal to buyers who prioritize a large yard. On the positive side, smaller lots typically mean less yard maintenance and a lower purchase price relative to larger properties in the same area.
5. How does this property fit into the Wolseley neighbourhood overall?
Wolseley is known for its older homes, tree-lined streets, and proximity to the river and shops on Portage Avenue. This particular home is on the smaller, older side, even for Wolseley. It’s a moderately valued property in a neighbourhood where values vary widely. The location gives access to the area’s character and convenience, but the house itself is not representative of the larger, more expensive homes that define the upper end of the market here.