1903 Mcdermot Avenue W

Property Overview

This is a compact, one-storey home built in 1915 on a standard city lot in Brooklands. Its key appeal lies in its position as an affordable entry point into the Winnipeg market, particularly for a detached property with a garage. At 830 sqft, the living space is modest and efficient. The home presents as a straightforward opportunity: it has an unrenovated basement and a detached garage, but no pool. The lot size is typical for the immediate street but smaller than the citywide average. Given its age and condition, it is likely best suited for buyers looking for a hands-on project, an investor seeking a rental property with land value, or a first-time buyer prioritizing ownership of a house and land over move-in-ready finishes. Its very low assessed and recent sale value highlight its role as a value-play rather than a premium home.

Key Details & FAQs

Key Characteristics & Appeal

• Profile: A 111-year-old, one-storey home with 830 sqft of living space, an unrenovated basement, and a detached garage on a 2,498 sqft lot.
• Primary Appeal: Exceptional affordability for a detached property. It offers the foundational benefits of land ownership and a classic house structure at a very accessible price point, making it a clear candidate for renovation, rental, or a low-barrier entry into homeownership.
• Ideal Buyer: This property suits the practical first-time buyer, the hands-on renovator, or the value-focused investor. It's for those who see potential in the structure and location and are prepared to invest sweat equity or capital into updates. It is less suited for those seeking modern, low-maintenance, or spacious accommodations immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What does "unrenovated basement" typically imply?
It usually means the basement is in original or rough condition, likely with concrete floors and walls, basic utilities, and unfinished ceilings. It presents both a blank canvas and a project, potentially requiring moisture-proofing or structural assessment before finishing.

2. How does the lot size affect future plans?
At 2,498 sqft, the lot is standard for the street but below the city average. This is sufficient for the existing home and garage but may limit possibilities for large additions or sprawling outdoor amenities. It emphasizes efficient use of space.

3. Given the age, what should be prioritized in an inspection?
With a home from 1915, an inspection should focus on the fundamentals: the condition of the foundation, roof, wiring, plumbing, and heating systems. These core elements are critical for safety and long-term viability, even before cosmetic updates are considered.

4. The assessed value is significantly lower than the city average. Is that a concern?
Not necessarily. It primarily reflects the home's modest size, age, and condition relative to the broader market. For a buyer, it can mean lower property taxes, which is a financial advantage. It underscores that the value here is in the land and the structure's potential, not in recent upgrades.

5. Is the detached garage a significant advantage?
Yes, especially in this price range. It provides secure storage, workshop space, or parking separate from the house—a feature not always available with older, affordable homes and one that adds practical utility and potential future value.