Property Overview
This one-and-a-half storey home at 387 Ottawa Avenue in Winnipeg's Chalmers neighbourhood presents a compelling opportunity centered on its generous lot and solid foundation. Built in 1949, it sits on a large 4,597 sqft lot, which ranks in the top 9% for size on its street. The 1,219 sqft living area is also notably above average for the immediate area. Key features include a detached garage and a basement that is present but not renovated. The home sold recently in March 2024 for $310,000, a price point that was among the top 3% for sales on Ottawa Avenue, indicating strong demand for properties with these characteristics in this location.
The primary appeal lies in its land value and the potential it offers. The lot size is a significant asset in a city where larger plots are increasingly rare, providing ample space for gardening, expansion, or future redevelopment. It suits buyers looking for a home with "good bones" in a well-established neighbourhood, particularly those with a vision for gradual updates or who prioritize outdoor space over a move-in-ready interior. A thoughtful perspective is that this property outperforms most of its direct neighbours in key metrics like land and living area, suggesting it's a standout on its block rather than just another comparable house. Its sharp increase in value from its 2020 sale price also hints at the area's growing desirability or the recognition of its underlying value.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does "above average" for the lot and living area actually mean?
It means that compared to most other homes directly on Ottawa Avenue and in the Chalmers neighbourhood, this property has more land and more interior space. Its lot is in the top 10% for the street, and its living area ranks 15th largest out of 175 comparable properties nearby.
2. The basement is noted as "not renovated." What should I expect?
You should anticipate a functional but unfinished space typical of a home of this era. It likely requires significant work to modernize and finish, so budgeting for this would be essential if you desire additional living or storage space.
3. Why did the sale price increase so significantly from 2020 to 2024?
The jump from $22,500 in 2020 to $310,000 in 2024 reflects a major market correction and renovation investment. The 2020 price was likely for a property in need of substantial work. The 2024 sale price indicates the home was updated and sold at market value, aligning with its strong assessed value and desirable lot size.
4. Who would this property be a good fit for?
It's ideal for a buyer seeking a character home on a large lot who is comfortable with a project. It could suit a growing family needing space, a DIY enthusiast looking to add value through renovations, or a long-term investor attracted by the substantial land asset in a stable neighbourhood.
5. How does this home compare to the average Winnipeg property?
While its lot and living space are above average for its immediate area, they are closer to the city-wide average. The key difference is value: its assessed value is below the Winnipeg average, which can mean a relatively lower property tax burden while still offering the benefits of a larger urban lot.