Property Overview: 884 Mountain Avenue, Winnipeg
Section 1: Key Characteristics & Appeal
This home is a classic one-and-a-half storey character property built in 1920, situated on a standard city lot in the Burrows Central neighbourhood. Its key appeal lies in its role as an affordable entry point into homeownership or as a straightforward investment property. The house presents a "blank canvas" opportunity, featuring a modest 740 sqft of living space and an unrenovated basement, making it well-suited for a buyer with renovation plans or one comfortable with a functional, no-frills home.
The property’s standout characteristic is its land. While the house itself is smaller and older than many in the city, its lot size is notably above average for the Burrows Central area. This offers valuable outdoor space and potential for future expansion, gardens, or parking—a less obvious advantage in an older neighbourhood. It would suit first-time buyers seeking a lower barrier to entry, hands-on investors looking for a rental property with land value, or downsizers prioritizing lot size over extensive interior square footage. The detached garage adds practical utility for storage or projects.
Section 2: Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is this a "tear-down" or a renovation project?
Given the home's smaller size and unrenovated state, some buyers may consider replacement. However, its above-average lot size for the area and solid assessed value suggest it is more likely viewed as a live-in renovation opportunity or a long-term hold for its land value.
2. How does the assessed value compare to recent sale prices?
The current assessed value is $15.70k. The home last sold in October 2020 for $14.30k and prior to that in August 2019 for $12.80k, indicating a stable, modest value in line with the home's profile as a smaller, older property.
3. What does "below average" living area mean for daily life?
With 740 sqft, the living space is compact. This typically means fewer or smaller rooms, efficient use of space, and lower utility costs. It necessitates a practical approach to belongings and may not suit those needing multiple dedicated rooms or extensive storage inside the home.
4. Is the neighbourhood trending older or newer?
The data shows the home's 1920 build date is actually around the neighbourhood average, meaning Burrows Central is an established area with many homes of a similar vintage. This can indicate stable, mature streetscapes but also a likelihood of similar aging infrastructure.
5. What is the realistic use for the unrenovated basement?
An unrenovated basement in a home of this era is typically suited for mechanical systems, laundry, and basic storage. Finishing it would likely require addressing fundamental moisture control, insulation, and ceiling height considerations common to century-old foundations.