Property Overview
This one-and-a-half storey home on Harbison Avenue W is a classic Winnipeg character property built in 1913. Its key appeal lies in its balance of historic charm and practical fundamentals. The home features a 1,000 sqft living area, which is notably spacious for its street and neighbourhood, and sits on a 2,169 sqft lot with a detached garage. It has an unrenovated basement. The property last sold in 2016 for $140,000 and carries a current assessed value of $14,500.
Key Characteristics & Suitability
The home’s primary strengths are its above-average interior space for the immediate area and its very low property tax base due to the assessed value. Its lot size is compact, even for the city, which translates to minimal exterior maintenance. The appeal here is largely for the value-conscious buyer, investor, or first-time homeowner who prioritizes living space and low carrying costs over a large yard or modern renovations. It suits someone comfortable with the upkeep of a 110-year-old home and who sees potential in its existing structure. A less obvious angle is its potential as a long-term hold in an established neighbourhood, where the significant disparity between its sale price and assessed value could be a point of interest for those looking into future valuation shifts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does the assessed value being much lower than the likely market price mean?
A: It primarily means the annual property taxes will be based on a very low value ($14,500), resulting in low tax bills. Market sale prices are almost always significantly higher than the assessed value for residential homes.
Q: Is the land size a concern?
A: The lot is smaller than most in Winnipeg. This is a drawback if you desire extensive outdoor space or gardening, but a benefit if you prefer less yard work and maintenance.
Q: What should I expect with a home built in 1913?
A: You should anticipate classic character features but also plan for the maintenance and potential updating of older mechanical systems, insulation, and windows. A thorough inspection is essential.
Q: The basement is noted as "not renovated." What does that typically imply?
A: This usually means the basement is in a functional, utilitarian state—likely with exposed foundations, basic flooring, and older finishes. It provides storage and houses mechanical systems but isn’t a finished living space.
Q: How does the living area compare to nearby homes?
A: At 1,000 sqft, the living area is actually larger than the average on its street (908 sqft) and in line with the neighbourhood average. This suggests the home may feel more spacious inside than other properties in the immediate area.