Property Overview: 193 Masson Street, Central St. Boniface
Key Characteristics & Appeal
This two-storey home, built in 1910, presents a classic character property with practical updates. Its key feature is a renovated basement, adding valuable finished space to the 1,228 sqft living area. The home sits on a 3,293 sqft lot with a detached garage, offering flexibility for parking, storage, or potential workshop space. While the structure itself is older, its assessed value consistently ranks above average for the Central St. Boniface neighbourhood, suggesting it is well-maintained and positioned within a desirable locale.
The appeal lies in its balance of historic charm and modern livability, anchored in the vibrant St. Boniface community. It suits a specific buyer: someone seeking an established neighbourhood with character, who values a home that has seen thoughtful improvements (like the basement renovation) and appreciates the utility of a detached garage. It’s likely a fit for first-time buyers, small families, or downsizers looking for a manageable footprint without sacrificing community amenities. A less obvious perspective is that its "around average" size and value metrics, both on the street and city-wide, indicate a property that is neither an outlier nor a fixer-upper, but a stable, middle-ground investment in a mature area.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does the "renovated basement" entail?
The listing confirms the basement is renovated, but specifics on finish quality, ceiling height, moisture control, and permitted use (e.g., legal suite, recreation room) would require clarification from the seller or a viewing.
2. How does the 1910 year of build affect maintenance?
While the home has been maintained, a property of this age typically requires proactive upkeep. Buyers should budget for potential updates to older systems like plumbing or wiring and consider a thorough inspection to understand the condition of the original structure.
3. The assessed value seems low compared to typical sale prices. Why?
Municipal assessed values for taxation purposes often differ significantly from current market values. The consistent increase in this home's sale price (from $31.5k in 2017 to $32.8k in 2020) and its above-neighbourhood-average assessment indicate market appreciation that may not be fully reflected in the official assessment figure.
4. What are the implications of the lot size?
At 3,293 sqft, the lot is below the city-wide average but typical for central, historic neighbourhoods. This means lower outdoor maintenance but limited space for major expansions. The placement of the detached garage will be a key factor in determining usable backyard space.
5. Is the detached garage insulated or heated?
This detail is not provided. The condition and functionality of the garage—whether it's a basic shelter, a workshop, or potentially convertible—would significantly impact its value to a potential buyer.