Property Overview: 286 Semple Avenue, Winnipeg
Key Characteristics & Appeal
This is a compact, one-storey home built in 1913, presenting a straightforward opportunity in Winnipeg's Jefferson neighbourhood. Its key characteristics are its modest scale and value-focused positioning. With 808 sqft of living space and an unrenovated basement, the home is smaller than most in its immediate area and across the city. It sits on a 3,090 sqft lot, which is also notably smaller than area norms. A detached garage is a practical asset.
The primary appeal lies in its accessibility. With a low assessed value of $190k—placing it in the bottom 10% of homes in Jefferson—it represents one of the most affordable entry points into the Winnipeg market. This is a property for pragmatic buyers who prioritize location and ownership over size or modern finishes. It would suit a first-time buyer comfortable with a project, an investor looking for a rental property with fundamentals in place, or someone seeking to minimize their mortgage footprint. A thoughtful perspective is that its smaller lot and home size translate to lower maintenance costs and property taxes, offering a different kind of value beyond the purchase price. Its long history (113 years) suggests a proven, durable structure, but it clearly awaits modern updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is this a "fixer-upper"?
Yes, the listing notes the basement is unrenovated, and given the home's age and below-average metrics for size and value compared to the area, buyers should anticipate needing to invest in updates and maintenance.
2. Why is the assessed value so much lower than the city-wide average?
The assessed value reflects the home's smaller size, older age, and likely condition relative to the broader market. It is consistent with being among the most affordable properties in the Jefferson neighbourhood.
3. What are the implications of having a smaller-than-average lot?
The 3,090 sqft lot requires less exterior upkeep but also offers less private outdoor space and potential for expansion compared to neighbouring properties. Parking and storage will rely on the detached garage.
4. How reliable are the past sold price figures shown?
The provided sold price range (e.g., $11.5k ~ $14.5k in 2020) is based on public data estimates. For an exact historical sale price, you must request it directly via the email service described on the site.
5. Who are the most comparable properties?
Comparables are primarily other homes with a similar $190k assessed value, which, as the listing shows, can include condominium units (like those on Grant Avenue). This highlights that at this price point, buyers may be choosing between a small, older house and a newer condo.