Property Summary: 815 Harstone Road
Key Characteristics & Appeal
This property is defined by a rare and substantial 24,443 sqft lot, placing it in the top 1% of all Winnipeg homes for land size. The home itself is a modest, one-storey 1,008 sqft bungalow built in 1962, featuring a finished basement. There is no garage or pool. Its primary appeal lies in its immense, blank-canvas yard within the city, offering unparalleled potential for expansion, gardening, or future development. The high land-to-building ratio is its most compelling asset.
It would best suit a buyer whose priority is land over a turnkey living space. This includes those looking for a multi-generational property with room to build a secondary suite, hobbyists or gardeners desiring extensive outdoor space, or long-term investors who value the underlying land asset. The home provides basic, livable accommodations while the true value is in the future possibilities the lot presents.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does the high "land" ranking actually mean for me?
It means you are purchasing a property with a lot size that is exceptionally large for Winnipeg. This offers privacy, space, and options that are very difficult to find in the city, but it also means a significant portion of your property taxes and maintenance effort will be directed at the land itself.
2. The house is smaller and older than average. What should I consider?
Be prepared to evaluate the condition of the major 1962-era systems, like plumbing, electrical, and the foundation. The finished basement adds living space, but the modest main-floor square footage means efficient use of space is key. The value proposition here is investing in the land with the understanding the home may need updates.
3. Is the lack of a garage a major drawback?
For some buyers, yes. It means factoring in the cost and space for adding a shed or future garage, or being comfortable with street parking. However, the vast lot provides ample room to add one, which could be seen as a customization opportunity rather than a pure limitation.
4. How do the mixed neighborhood rankings affect the property?
While the lot size is elite in the area, the home's age and size are more typical. This suggests a neighborhood with a diverse mix of property types and values. It’s wise to research recent sales and street views to understand the specific character of the immediate block.
5. What are the less obvious factors to consider with such a large lot?
Consider the cost and labor of lawn maintenance or landscaping. Investigate any zoning bylaws or restrictive covenants that might affect your ability to subdivide, build additions, or place secondary structures. Also, understand how the lot is graded for drainage, as managing water on a large property is important.