Property Overview: 256 Ellen Street, Winnipeg
Section 1: Key Characteristics & Appeal
This one-and-three-quarter storey home, built in 1890, is a classic Centennial neighbourhood property with a modest footprint. Its key characteristics include a 1,412 sqft living area, a 2,551 sqft lot, a detached garage, and a basement that is present but not renovated. The home’s assessed and recent sale value is notably low compared to the Winnipeg city-wide average, yet it is typical for its immediate area.
The primary appeal lies in its land value and location within an established neighbourhood. The lot size, while below average for the city, is quite standard for Centennial, offering manageable outdoor space. The home suits a specific type of buyer: those looking for an affordable entry into homeownership, an investor seeking a rental property with a low acquisition cost, or a hands-on buyer with a vision for gradual renovation. It is not a move-in-ready showpiece but a practical foundation. A less obvious perspective is its potential for someone interested in the history and character of older Winnipeg homes, willing to modernize its systems and layout over time while preserving its core structure.
Section 2: Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is the assessed value so much lower than the Winnipeg average?
The assessed value is based on the property's characteristics and recent sales in its specific area. In the Centennial neighbourhood, and particularly on Ellen Street, property values are consistently lower than the city-wide benchmark, reflecting the local market.
2. What does "one & 3/4 storey" mean for the layout?
This style typically features a main floor and a second floor where the ceilings may slope with the roofline, often creating cozy bedrooms or spaces with character. The full footprint of the house may not be carried through to the upper level.
3. Is the basement usable in its current state?
The listing specifies the basement exists but is "not renovated." Buyers should anticipate it being in a rough, unfinished state suitable only for storage or mechanicals, with significant work required to create livable space.
4. How does the lot size compare to others nearby?
At 2,551 sqft, the lot is slightly smaller than the average for both Ellen Street and the Centennial neighbourhood, but it is very much in line with the typical scale of properties in this historic area.
5. What are the major considerations with a home built in 1890?
Prospective buyers must budget for and investigate the condition of major aging systems, including plumbing, electrical, and the foundation. While it offers charm, its maintenance needs and energy efficiency will likely differ significantly from a modern build.