Property Overview
212 Duffield Street is a substantial two-storey home in Winnipeg's Deer Lodge neighbourhood, built in 1912. Its primary distinction is its exceptionally large living space of 2,616 sqft, which ranks in the top 1% for its street and neighbourhood, offering significantly more room than typical area homes. The property sits on a standard-sized lot and includes a detached garage. Notably, it sold in August 2024 for $52.50k, which is considerably higher than its assessed value of $43.40k. The basement is noted as unrenovated.
Key Characteristics & Appeal
The core appeal of this property lies in its rare abundance of interior space within a well-established community. It is a classic, century-old home that offers the generous room proportions and structural character of its era, appealing to buyers looking for a project or a canvas. Its standout size makes it a unique find for the area, suitable for large families, multi-generational living, or those who prioritize spaciousness over modern finishes. The appeal is pragmatic: you are paying primarily for square footage and land in a solid location, with the understanding that updates and renovations will be part of the journey. It suits a buyer with vision, who values potential over turn-key perfection and is prepared to invest in bringing a character home up to modern standards while preserving its inherent scale and charm.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is the sale price so different from the assessed value?
The assessed value is for municipal tax purposes and often lags behind the current market, which is driven by buyer demand. The sale price reflects what a buyer was recently willing to pay for this specific property's unique characteristics, notably its very large living area.
2. What does "Elite — Top 1%" ranking for living area mean?
This statistic means the home's interior square footage is larger than 99% of comparable homes on its street and in the Deer Lodge neighbourhood. It is a quantifiable confirmation of the home's standout size relative to its immediate peers.
3. Is the unrenovated basement a major concern?
It represents both a consideration and an opportunity. It will require inspection for moisture, foundation integrity, and systems (like wiring or plumbing). For a buyer planning renovations, it offers a blank slate to create additional living space, storage, or utilities without undoing previous work.
4. What are the implications of a home built in 1912?
Expect character features like solid construction and original detailing, but also anticipate older mechanical systems (heating, electrical, plumbing) that may need evaluation, updating, or replacement. The home's age is a significant factor in its maintenance needs and renovation strategy.
5. How does the lot size compare?
At 5,592 sqft, the lot is fairly average for Deer Lodge and citywide. It provides standard outdoor space for a home of this vintage but is not unusually large. The focus of this property is squarely on the interior living space, not expansive grounds.