74 Blairmore Gardens

Property Overview

74 Blairmore Gardens is a one-storey home in Canterbury Park, built in 1986. Its key feature is a renovated basement, adding valuable finished living space to the 1,020 sqft main floor. The property sits on a 4,422 sqft lot with a detached garage. The home last sold in April 2019 for $280,000, and its current assessed value is in line with area averages.

Section 1: Key Characteristics & Appeal

The primary appeal of this home lies in its practical updates and established neighbourhood setting. The renovated basement is a significant asset, effectively expanding the usable living area without increasing the home's footprint. While the above-ground living space is modest and below the neighbourhood average, the basement renovation helps offset this, offering flexibility for a family room, home office, or guest space.

Its lot size is slightly below average for the immediate street but is typical for Canterbury Park overall, offering manageable outdoor space with less maintenance. As a home built in the mid-80s in a mature area, it suits buyers looking for a settled community without the unknowns of an older character home. It would particularly appeal to first-time buyers, small families, or downsizers seeking a single-level layout (with basement space for extra room), who value move-in readiness from the basement renovation over a larger or brand-new main floor.

A less obvious perspective is its position as a "middle-of-the-road" property in statistical terms. Its metrics for year built, lot size, and assessed value consistently rank as average or slightly below average for its immediate area. This can represent a value opportunity for a pragmatic buyer, offering a solid home in a desirable neighbourhood without paying a premium for top-tier stats.

Section 2: Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is the basement renovation permitted?
Prospective buyers should always verify with the city that any renovations, including the basement, have the proper permits and final inspections.

2. What is the ceiling height and condition of the basement?
It's important to assess the finished basement's livability, including ceiling height, moisture control, and the quality of the renovation work, as these factors impact its long-term value and comfort.

3. How does the detached garage affect winter usability?
A detached garage is common but requires considering Winnipeg winters. Buyers may want to evaluate the walkway from the garage to the house and factor in the seasonal inconvenience.

4. Why is the living area below neighbourhood average?
At 1,020 sqft, the main floor living area is smaller than many Canterbury Park homes. This emphasizes the importance of the basement renovation in providing additional space and may suit those who prefer cozier, efficient main-floor living.

5. The 2019 sale price was $280k; what's a realistic price today?
Market conditions have shifted since 2019. While the assessed value provides a benchmark, the current market value will depend on factors like the quality of the renovation, recent comparable sales, and overall buyer demand.