Property Overview: 614 St Jean Baptiste Street, Winnipeg
Section 1: Key Characteristics & Appeal
This two-storey home, built in 1910, is situated on a standard-sized lot in Central St. Boniface. Its primary appeal lies in its generous 1,700 sqft of living space, which is notably larger than most comparable homes in the immediate area and across Winnipeg. The property includes a detached garage and a basement that is present but unrenovated.
The home suits a specific buyer: one who values character and space over modern finishes and is prepared for the maintenance and potential updates typical of a century-old house. Its below-average assessed value suggests it may be an accessible entry point into the historic St. Boniface neighbourhood. A thoughtful perspective is that while the land size is modest for the area, the above-average interior square footage offers a practical balance—more room inside without the upkeep of a large yard. It’s ideally suited for a handy buyer or an investor looking for a character property with solid fundamentals, who sees potential in the existing structure rather than a pristine, move-in-ready home.
Section 2: Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does the below-average assessed value indicate?
It typically reflects the home’s age, the unrenovated condition of the basement, and market valuations. It can mean a lower property tax burden and may present an opportunity for value increase through updates.
2. How significant is the larger living area?
At 1,700 sqft, the living space ranks in the top 20% for the street and neighbourhood. This is a key advantage, offering more room than most similar local properties, which average closer to 1,265-1,284 sqft.
3. What should I consider about the 1910 build date?
While it adds character, it necessitates thorough inspections for foundational integrity, wiring, plumbing, and insulation. Its age is older than most on the street, so budgeting for ongoing maintenance is essential.
4. Is the lot size a disadvantage?
The lot is smaller than area averages. However, this can mean less exterior maintenance. The trade-off is the larger interior space, which may be a preferable arrangement for many.
5. What is implied by the recent sale price being close to the assessed value?
The home sold for $28.5k in 2021, closely aligned with its $27.3k assessed value. This suggests the sale was a market-driven transaction, not a distressed sale, providing a reliable benchmark for its recent market worth.