Property Overview: 788 Municipal Road, Winnipeg
This Betsworth bi-level home presents a unique opportunity on a large, private lot. Its appeal lies in the balance of established neighborhood character, generous outdoor space, and specific amenities that cater to a particular lifestyle. The home itself, built in 1971, features a finished basement and a modest 802 sqft of living space, but is distinguished by its nearly 11,766 sqft lot and an in-ground swimming pool.
The property would best suit buyers who prioritize land and recreation over square footage. It's ideal for someone seeking a private backyard oasis for family summers, or for a hands-on owner who sees potential in the existing structure and land. The data suggests it's a home with strong fundamentals in its location (ranking highly within Winnipeg for lot size and assessed value), but one that may appeal more to a value-conscious buyer or an investor looking for a property with land-based potential rather than a move-in-ready showcase.
Key Characteristics & Ideal Buyer
- Spacious Lot & Outdoor Focus: The nearly quarter-acre lot is the star here, offering exceptional privacy and room for gardening, play, or expansion. The in-ground pool transforms the yard into a private summer retreat, a rare find that adds significant lifestyle value.
- Established & Efficient Footprint: The bi-level design and modest main-floor living area suggest a home that is efficient to maintain and heat. The finished basement adds practical living space. It's a layout that works well for smaller households or those who spend more time outdoors.
- Value & Potential: With an assessment significantly higher than its last sale price in 2016, the property appears to hold solid intrinsic value for its lot and location. It represents an entry point into a well-ranked neighborhood for buyers comfortable with a home that may require personalization or updates. The very high city-wide rankings for lot size (top 4%) and assessed value (top 28%) indicate a property that outperforms most in Winnipeg on these key metrics.
This home is not for those seeking ample above-grade square footage or a modern, open-concept layout. Instead, it perfectly suits a buyer who values land, privacy, and the classic Canadian summer experience a pool provides, and who views the house itself as a solid canvas.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How does the smaller living area (802 sqft) work with a finished basement?
The bi-level design typically places the main living areas on one level and bedrooms on another, with the basement adding recreational or utility space. The finished basement effectively doubles the usable space, making the home feel larger than the main-floor square footage suggests, though ceiling heights and layout are key to see in person.
2. What should I consider with a 55-year-old home and a pool?
A professional inspection is crucial. Focus should be on major systems (roof, foundation, plumbing, electrical) due to the home's age, and a specialized pool inspection to assess the equipment, liner/concrete, and safety compliance. Budgeting for ongoing maintenance for both is essential.
3. The lot is large, but what are the costs and rules for using it?
A lot of this size means higher property taxes and potentially more work for upkeep (lawn care, landscaping). You should check with the city for any zoning bylaws regarding future sheds, garages, or additions, and review neighborhood covenants, if any, regarding pools and fences.
4. The assessed value is $435K; what does that mean for my offer?
Municipal assessments are for tax purposes and reflect a mass appraisal from a prior date. They are a useful data point but not a direct market valuation. Your offer should be based on a current market analysis, the home's condition, recent comparable sales, and the unique value of the pool and lot size.
5. Why are the rankings for "Living Area" so low, while "Land Area" is so high?
This highlights the property's unique profile. It ranks low for interior space because many homes have larger footprints. However, it ranks exceptionally high for land because very few properties in the city offer a lot of this size. This data clearly shows you are buying primarily for the land and outdoor potential.