Property Overview & Key Characteristics
This home at 238 Kilbride Avenue is a classic one-and-three-quarter storey house built in 1902, offering a compact and efficient living space of 968 square feet on a standard city lot. Its key appeal lies in its position as an authentic, entry-level property in Winnipeg's Jefferson neighbourhood. The data suggests it is a home that prioritizes function and affordability over size or modern finishes, featuring an unrenovated basement and no garage.
The property would suit a specific type of buyer: a first-time purchaser, an investor, or a downsizer comfortable with a project. Its below-average assessed value and historically modest sale price point to a lower financial barrier to entry. For the right person, this represents a chance to secure a foothold in the market with a character home that has significant potential for value increase through updates. A thoughtful perspective is that while its living area is modest city-wide, it is actually around average for its immediate street and neighbourhood, indicating it fits the local scale and may not feel out of place. Its age, while requiring attention, also offers a sense of history and solid construction that newer builds may lack.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the true condition of the home given its age?
Built in 1902, this is one of the older homes in the area. Buyers should budget for and expect the maintenance and system updates typical of a century-old house. A thorough inspection is essential to understand the state of the foundation, wiring, plumbing, and roof.
2. How does the lack of a garage and an unrenovated basement impact livability?
The property offers no garage and the basement is not finished. This means on-site storage and utility space will be limited, and all living areas are contained within the main footprint. This layout suits those with minimal storage needs or who are open to creative solutions.
3. The assessed value seems low. What does this mean for property taxes and potential value?
A lower assessed value typically translates to lower municipal property taxes, which is a ongoing cost savings. It also indicates significant potential for the assessed value—and therefore market value—to rise with thoughtful renovations and improvements.
4. Is the living space too small?
At 968 sqft, the home is below the Winnipeg city average. However, it's important to note it is around average for Kilbride Avenue itself. This suggests an efficient, cozy layout that may be perfectly adequate for individuals, couples, or small families, aligning with the neighbourhood's character.
5. What can the past sale price tell me?
The home sold in the range of $125k-$155k in 2016. While the market has changed, this history confirms its long-standing position as an affordable, value-oriented property. It underscores the importance of getting an exact, current valuation to understand today's investment.