Property Overview: 1023 Burrows Avenue, Winnipeg
Section 1: Key Characteristics & Appeal
This is a compact, one-storey home built in 1933, situated on a standard city lot in the Burrows Central neighbourhood. Its key characteristic is its modest scale, with a living area of 527 sq ft, which is notably smaller than most homes in the city. The property features a basement that is present but not renovated, and there is no garage or pool.
The primary appeal lies in its position as an accessible entry point into the Winnipeg housing market. With a historically low assessed value and a recent sale price well below the city average, it represents one of the most affordable home ownership opportunities available. Its appeal is for utility and potential, not for its current condition or size.
This property would best suit a very specific type of buyer: a hands-on investor looking for a rental property with minimal initial capital outlay, or a highly budget-conscious first-time buyer willing to live in a compact, no-frills space while building equity. It is not suited for those needing move-in-ready finishes, multiple bedrooms, or ample living space. A thoughtful perspective is that this home’s significant affordability may offset the costs and effort required for eventual updates, making it a pragmatic foundation for a long-term financial strategy rather than an immediate lifestyle choice.
Section 2: Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is the assessed value so much lower than the city average?
The assessed value reflects the property's very small living area, its age, and the market values in its immediate area. It ranks in the bottom tier city-wide for both size and value, which results in this low assessment.
2. What does "basement, not renovated" typically mean for a home of this age?
For a Winnipeg home built in 1933, this usually indicates a basic, unfinished concrete basement used for utilities and storage. It may have low ceilings, minimal lighting, and require attention to moisture control or insulation.
3. Is the land size a redeeming feature?
The lot is approximately 2,281 sq ft, which is smaller than the average for the street, neighbourhood, and city. While it provides outdoor space, its size is not an exceptional feature compared to the property's other metrics.
4. Who might be my neighbours in terms of property types?
Nearby properties on Burrows Avenue and the surrounding blocks are a mix of similar small, older homes and some larger dwellings. Listing comparisons show a range of sizes and conditions, suggesting a neighbourhood with diverse housing stock and likely a mix of long-term owners and investors.
5. What is the most important thing to consider before viewing this property?
Manage expectations around space and condition. The living area is significantly smaller than a typical modern apartment. A viewing should focus on the structural integrity of the foundation and main floor, the state of major systems (roof, wiring, plumbing), and realistically assessing the cost and scope of any desired improvements against the low purchase price.