Property Overview: 352 Youville Street, Winnipeg
Section 1: Key Characteristics & Appeal
This home is defined by its exceptional, oversized lot—a rare find in the city. With over 13,000 square feet of land, the property ranks in the top 4% on its street and top 1% in the sought-after Central St. Boniface neighbourhood. This expansive outdoor space is the standout feature, offering immense potential for gardening, recreation, or future expansion. The house itself is a 1945 two-storey with a functional 1,280 sqft layout and a detached garage. It sits on a quiet, established street with closely spaced homes, suggesting a strong sense of community.
The primary appeal lies in a "blank canvas" opportunity, particularly for the land. While the home has an unrenovated basement and is of average size and age for the area, the value is anchored in the property itself. It recently sold for a price significantly above its assessed value, indicating strong market recognition of its potential.
This property would best suit a buyer with a vision. It’s ideal for someone looking for a long-term family home where they can gradually customize both the house and the extensive yard, or for an investor/developer who recognizes the underlying value of the land parcel in a mature neighbourhood. It appeals to those who prioritize outdoor space and future potential over immediate move-in perfection.
Section 2: Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does "unrenovated basement" typically imply?
It generally means the basement retains its original state. Buyers should budget for potential updates to flooring, lighting, and possibly moisture management, but it also offers a clean slate to finish according to one's own needs.
2. The lot is large, but are there any restrictions on how it can be used?
While the lot offers great flexibility, any changes like adding a structure (e.g., a large shed, garage, or addition) or subdividing the land would require checking with the City of Winnipeg’s zoning bylaws and obtaining the necessary permits.
3. The sale price was well above the assessed value. Is that a concern?
Not necessarily. Assessed value is for municipal tax purposes and often lags behind the current market. The sale price reflects what buyers were recently willing to pay for this specific property’s combination of location and lot size.
4. What are the less obvious considerations with a large, mature lot?
Consider ongoing maintenance like lawn care, tree management, and snow removal, which will be more extensive than for a standard lot. The mature trees provide privacy and beauty but may require professional care.
5. How does the age of the home (1945) affect things?
It brings character and solid construction but warrants a thorough inspection. Attention should be paid to the age and condition of core systems like plumbing, electrical, and the roof, which may need updating or will factor into renovation plans.