Property Overview: 556 Smithfield Avenue, Winnipeg
Key Characteristics & Appeal
This one-and-a-half storey home, built in 1949, presents a practical opportunity in Winnipeg's Jefferson neighbourhood. With 1,172 square feet of living space and a 5,337 sqft lot, its size is consistently average or above-average for its immediate street and area, offering comfortable room for a small family or couple. A key characteristic is its detached garage, a valuable asset for storage, hobbies, or vehicle protection. The home has an unrenovated basement, which represents both a project and potential—allowing a new owner to customize the space to their needs without paying a premium for a prior owner's finishes.
Its appeal lies in its solid, no-frills foundation and its position as a value-conscious entry into the market. The assessed value is notably below average for the city, and the last sold price range (2023) suggests a historically accessible price point. This is a property for a hands-on buyer who values a larger lot and the flexibility of a blank-canvas basement over move-in-ready perfection. It would suit a first-time homebuyer with renovation ambitions, an investor looking for a property with rental potential (subject to due diligence), or a practical buyer seeking to build equity through gradual improvements.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does "unrenovated basement" typically mean for a house of this era?
It usually indicates the basement retains its original state, likely with a concrete floor, unfinished walls, and exposed mechanical systems (like the furnace and plumbing). It’s functional for storage and laundry but would require investment to become a finished living space.
2. How does the below-average assessed value affect property taxes?
A lower assessed value generally results in lower municipal property taxes compared to similar-sized homes with higher assessments. This can be a meaningful ongoing saving, though the exact amount should be verified with the city.
3. Is the detached garage a standard feature for homes here?
Not necessarily. A detached garage is a valuable feature in this neighbourhood, often more desirable than a carport or only on-street parking. It provides secure storage and workspace separate from the house.
4. The home is older—what should I be mindful of?
While the year built (1949) is newer than many on its street, a pre-1950s home may have original plumbing, wiring, or insulation. A thorough home inspection is essential to understand the condition and potential upgrade costs for these core systems.
5. The sold price history shows a range. Why isn't the exact price listed?
Exact sale prices in Manitoba are not publicly disclosed online. The range is estimated from public data. The listing service offers to provide the exact price via email to ensure accuracy for serious inquiries.