Property Summary: 1963 Alexander Avenue, Winnipeg
Section 1: Key Characteristics & Appeal
This home is defined by a significant contrast: it sits on a very large, 5,909 sqft lot that ranks in the top 1% for size on its street, yet the house itself is modest at 722 sqft of living space. Built in 1949, it is an older one-storey property with an unrenovated basement and a detached garage. The appeal here is fundamentally in the land. For the price, you are primarily acquiring a substantial piece of property in Brooklands with a livable structure on it. The assessed value is notably low compared to the city-wide average, which suggests a lower property tax burden.
This property would suit a specific type of buyer. It's ideal for someone with a vision for the land itself—whether for future expansion, building a new home, or creating extensive outdoor space. It could also appeal to an investor or handy homeowner willing to live in the compact existing home while planning a longer-term project. The low living area makes it less suitable for those needing immediate, spacious accommodation without renovation or addition.
A less obvious perspective is that this property represents a "blank canvas" opportunity in an established neighbourhood. The large lot offers privacy and potential not found in newer subdivisions, while the existing home provides a functional starting point. Its value is more tied to future potential than to its current state.
Section 2: Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does "unrenovated basement" typically mean?
It generally indicates the basement is in its original or functional state, likely lacking modern finishes. It may be suitable for storage, laundry, or mechanicals, but not as a finished living space without significant work.
2. How can the lot be in the top 1% but the living area be below average?
This highlights the property's unique character. Many older neighbourhoods have homes on large lots, but the houses themselves were often built more modestly. This discrepancy is the core feature of this listing, offering land value over current interior space.
3. Is the low assessed value a good thing?
It has two sides. It typically results in lower annual property taxes, which is a positive for carrying costs. However, it also reflects the municipality's valuation of the property in its current, modest state, which may influence lending or perceived market value.
4. What should I consider about the 1949 build date?
While the structure is older, the data shows it's actually newer than many homes on its street. Still, a pre-1950 home will likely have older building materials, systems (like wiring and plumbing), and require a thorough inspection to understand the condition and any needed updates.
5. Who determines the "rankings" and what do they mean?
The rankings are generated by comparing this property's metrics (like lot size) against all other similar properties in three geographic circles: its immediate street, the broader Brooklands neighbourhood, and city-wide Winnipeg. They are a tool to show how this property compares contextually, not an official appraisal.