Property Overview: 154 Masson Street, Central St. Boniface
Key Characteristics & Appeal
This is a modest, one-storey home built in 1941, situated on a notably large lot in the established Central St. Boniface neighbourhood. Its primary appeal lies in the land itself—at over 6,100 square feet, the property size is well above average for both the immediate street and the wider area, ranking in the top 15% locally. This presents a significant opportunity for expansion, gardening, or outdoor living. The home features a renovated basement and a detached garage. With a compact living area of just over 800 square feet, the house itself is functionally a starter home or a downsizer’s retreat, but the generous lot adds substantial latent value and potential.
The property would best suit a specific type of buyer: a land-savvy individual or builder who sees value in the lot size and location over the existing structure. It’s ideal for someone planning a future expansion, a custom rebuild, or who simply prioritizes extensive outdoor space in a mature neighbourhood. Given its size and assessed value, it also represents a relatively accessible entry point into the St. Boniface area. A thoughtful perspective is that this property trades immediate interior space for long-term lot potential, making it a strategic purchase rather than a turn-key family home.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the house in livable condition?
While specific interior condition isn’t detailed, the listing confirms a renovated basement. The main living space is compact at 808 sq ft, so buyers should be prepared for a home of its 1941 vintage and plan for viewing to assess updates.
2. What can I do with such a large lot?
The lot is the standout feature. Uses could include adding a significant extension, building a detached workshop or studio (subject to bylaws), creating extensive garden or recreational space, or holding it for future redevelopment potential.
3. How does the assessed value relate to the likely sale price?
The home last sold in late 2021 for $34,800, closely aligned with its current assessed value of $33,700. This suggests a stable, value-driven market for properties of this type in the area, though current market conditions will ultimately determine the sale price.
4. Is the neighbourhood desirable?
Central St. Boniface is a historic, established neighbourhood. The data shows that for a home of this age and size, its assessed value is around average for the area, indicating it’s in a steady, in-demand location.
5. Why is the living area so small compared to the lot size?
This is common for older homes where land was plentiful. The structure represents the needs of a past era, leaving modern buyers with the unique option to tailor the space to contemporary lifestyles, whether through renovation or redevelopment.