Property Overview
This is a very small, century-old home on a standard city lot in Winnipeg's Chalmers neighbourhood. Its key characteristic is its scale: with just 504 sqft of living space, it is among the smallest houses in the city. Built in 1909, the one-storey home has an unrenovated basement and a detached garage. The appeal lies almost entirely in its land and its price point. It represents a rare entry-level opportunity for land ownership in the city, suited for a very specific buyer: someone looking for a minimal dwelling to live in while saving, an investor seeking a low-cost rental property, or a buyer with plans to eventually replace the existing structure. It is not suited for those needing modern finishes, space, or who are not prepared for the maintenance of a 117-year-old home.
A less obvious perspective is that this property's extremely low assessed value suggests it is not considered a standard family home by the market, but rather as land with an existing structure. Its value is fundamentally tied to the development potential of its lot, not the current house. The 2018 sale price of $7,700 indicates it has been treated as a tear-down or major project in the very recent past.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is this house livable in its current state?
While it provides basic shelter, the data suggests it is functionally obsolete by modern standards. The extremely small living area and mention of an unrenovated basement indicate it will require significant updates and likely creative space solutions to serve as a comfortable primary residence.
2. Why is the assessed value so low compared to city averages?
The assessed value reflects the market's valuation of the property as it currently exists. The combination of very small size, great age, and likely outdated systems means the value is primarily in the land itself, not the building.
3. What are the main considerations for a potential buyer?
Buyers must be prepared for two paths: investing to minimally maintain and live in a very compact historic home, or budgeting for a major renovation or eventual rebuild. Due diligence on the foundation, structure, and mechanical systems of a 1909 build is essential.
4. Could this be a good rental property?
Potentially, as a very low-cost entry into the rental market, but with important caveats. The rental income would be limited by the home's size and condition, and maintenance costs for an older property can be high relative to its value. It may appeal to a single tenant or couple seeking extremely affordable rent.
5. How does the lot size compare to the neighbourhood?
At 2,209 sqft, the lot is below average for Chalmers. However, it is a standard city lot, meaning redevelopment or adding an addition would be subject to typical zoning bylaws. Its value is not in having an unusually large lot, but in having a standard lot at a very low price.