Property Overview: 139 McDowell Drive
This well-established, single-family home in Winnipeg’s Eric Coy neighborhood presents a compelling opportunity. Built in 1984, it’s a one-storey bungalow with a finished basement, offering nearly 1,900 sq ft of living space on a generous 7,518 sq ft lot with an attached garage.
The home’s appeal lies in its established setting and strong relative value. The data indicates it consistently ranks above average for its size, lot, and assessed value compared to most homes in Winnipeg, suggesting a solid foundation. Its lot size is particularly notable, offering ample outdoor space in a mature area. The home would suit practical buyers looking for a move-in-ready property with room to grow, without the premium of a brand-new build. It’s ideal for those who value space over flash, appreciate a settled neighborhood character, and see potential in a home that already ranks well on key metrics like lot size and assessment value within the broader market.
Key Questions for Consideration
1. What does the "ranking" data actually mean?
The rankings compare this home against others on its street, in Eric Coy, and across all of Winnipeg for specific traits. For example, being newer than 89% of houses on its street but only 66% in Winnipeg suggests the immediate area is mature, while its lot size ranking in the top 13% city-wide is a significant asset.
2. The home is 42 years old. What should I be prepared for?
While the rankings show it's relatively newer for its immediate area, a home of this age will likely have had some major components updated. Inquiries should focus on the roof, windows, HVAC system, and any foundational maintenance, as these are typical considerations for homes built in the 1980s.
3. How does the 2017 sale price relate to today's value?
The property sold for $502,000 in 2017 and now has a municipal assessment of $571,000. This provides a benchmark for past market value, but the current market price will be determined by recent comparable sales, condition, and updates since that last transaction.
4. What are the pros and cons of a one-storey layout?
The main advantage is single-level living, which is accessible and easy to navigate. The potential downside is that the square footage is spread out, which can sometimes mean fewer or smaller dedicated rooms compared to a two-storey home with the same total area. The finished basement effectively adds a second living level.
5. The lot is large, but how is it configured?
A lot of over 7,500 sq ft is a major feature. It’s important to understand how the space is used: Is it mostly backyard, side yard, or front yard? What is the orientation for sun exposure? Are there mature trees or gardens? This greatly impacts its utility and maintenance.