Property Overview
96 Harlesden Drive is a 1990-built bi-level home in Winnipeg's Dakota Crossing neighbourhood. With 845 sqft of living space and a renovated basement, it sits on a standard 4,394 sqft lot. The home lacks a garage or pool. Its key appeal lies in being a well-maintained, entry-level property in a mature area, with a recent renovation adding modern livability to a compact footprint. The assessed value is notably modest compared to city-wide averages, suggesting a lower property tax burden.
Key Characteristics & Ideal Buyer
This home is characterized by its efficient size and recent updates. The renovated basement adds functional space, making the total usable area greater than the main floor square footage suggests. Its standout feature is its value proposition: it ranks as one of the newer homes on its street and holds a city-average assessed value, yet its living space is below average for the area. This creates a unique niche—it’s a modernized, manageable property without a premium price tag.
The appeal lies in affordability and low-maintenance living. It suits first-time buyers seeking a foothold in the market without a daunting mortgage or upkeep. It would also fit downsizers looking to rightsize from a larger home while staying in a settled neighbourhood. A thoughtful perspective is that the smaller interior space encourages efficient use of the renovated basement and could lead to lower utility costs. The lack of a garage, while a drawback for some, simplifies the exterior upkeep and may appeal to those seeking a truly lock-and-leave lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is this a small house?
Yes, at 845 sqft of above-ground living area, it is smaller than most homes in Dakota Crossing and Winnipeg overall. However, the renovated basement provides additional finished space.
2. Why is the assessed value so much lower than the last sale price?
The home sold for $280,000 in 2019. The assessed value ($36,500) is for municipal tax purposes only and is not an indicator of current market value. This lower assessment can result in proportionally lower property taxes.
3. What does "below average" for living area in the rankings mean?
It means this home's square footage is less than the majority of comparable homes in its immediate area, city-wide, and on its own street. This is a key factor in its affordability.
4. Is the 1990 build date a concern?
Not inherently. It is actually one of the newer homes on Harlesden Drive. A 1990 build means major components like wiring and plumbing are relatively modern, though standard inspections for a 30+ year-old home are always advised.
5. What are the implications of not having a garage?
It means parking is limited to the driveway and street. This affects winter convenience and storage. For some buyers, this trade-off is acceptable for the lower price and reduced maintenance; for others, it may be a significant drawback.