Property Overview & Key Characteristics
This one-and-a-half storey home on Manhattan Avenue in East Elmwood is a practical and well-situated property. Built in 1951, it offers 917 square feet of living space and sits on a lot that is notably larger than many on its street. A key feature is its renovated basement, adding valuable finished space. The home’s assessed value and living area are very typical for the immediate neighbourhood, presenting a house that is squarely in the mainstream for East Elmwood rather than an outlier.
Its primary appeal lies in its balance and location. It offers a manageable size for smaller households, the benefit of a modernized basement, and a generous yard for the area—a combination that provides a solid foundation for comfortable living. The property data suggests it’s a home that doesn’t demand extensive upgrading to be on par with neighbouring houses, which can be a relief for buyers.
This property would suit first-time buyers or downsizers looking for an honest, no-frills home in a stable neighbourhood. It’s also a sensible fit for an investor seeking a straightforward rental property, given its average metrics for the area and move-in ready condition from the basement up. A thoughtful perspective is that this home represents the "characteristic" East Elmwood experience—it allows one to enter the market without the premium or the significant project often associated with more unique homes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the renovated basement a legal suite?
The listing notes a renovated basement but does not specify it as a legal secondary suite. Buyers should verify its permitted uses with the city.
2. How does the property compare to others on the street?
The home has a larger-than-average lot for Manhattan Avenue but is otherwise very aligned with the street in terms of size, age, and value. It is a typical, not exceptional, property for its specific block.
3. What is the significance of the assessed value?
The assessed value is for municipal tax purposes and is not a market valuation. At approximately $23,700, it is consistent with similar homes in East Elmwood, indicating average property taxes for the area.
4. What might the "one-and-a-half storey" design mean for living space?
This style often features a main floor with principal rooms and a second floor under sloped ceilings, which can create cozy bedrooms but may have limited headroom in some areas. The 917 sqft living area includes both floors and the finished basement.
5. Are the nearby reference properties good indicators of value?
The listed nearby properties (e.g., 823 Manhattan Ave., 859 Beach Ave.) show a range of sizes and values, highlighting that this home sits at the more compact and affordable end of the East Elmwood market, which is useful for understanding its competitive positioning.