Property Overview
This 1912 one-and-a-half storey home at 506 Rosseau Avenue E in Winnipeg's Kern Park neighborhood presents a specific and straightforward opportunity. Its key characteristic is its modest scale, with 920 square feet of living space and a smaller 2,700 sqft lot, placing it well below city averages for size. The home has an unfinished basement and no garage. Its assessed value is notably low compared to both the neighborhood and the wider city, reflecting its age, size, and condition.
The appeal lies in its position as an affordable entry point into the Winnipeg market, particularly for a stand-alone house. It suits a practical, hands-on buyer—perhaps a first-time purchaser, an investor, or someone looking to downsize—who is prepared for the realities of a 114-year-old home. The lower property taxes associated with its assessment can be a meaningful ongoing savings. A less obvious perspective is that a home of this age and scale on a smaller lot offers a lower environmental footprint and potentially simpler upkeep than a larger, modern property, appealing to a minimalist or efficiency-focused lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does the assessed value tell me about this property?
The assessed value of $220k is significantly below averages for the street, neighborhood, and city. This typically indicates a property that is older, smaller, or in need of updates compared to its peers, which is reflected in the lower annual property tax burden.
2. How does the living space compare to other homes?
At 920 sqft, the living area is slightly below the average for Kern Park (~1,047 sqft) and notably smaller than the Winnipeg average (~1,342 sqft). This confirms it's a compact, character home, not a spacious modern one.
3. What should I consider about the lot size?
The 2,700 sqft lot is considerably smaller than most in the area. This means minimal exterior maintenance but also limited private outdoor space and potential challenges for adding extensions or a garage later.
4. The home sold for between $15.5k and $18.5k in 2017. Why is that price so low?
Such a low historical sale price, especially compared to the current assessment, often indicates a previous sale under unique circumstances—such as a non-arms-length transaction between family members, a sale of land only, or a property in severely distressed condition. It does not reflect typical market value at that time or today.
5. Who is this property most suitable for?
It best suits a buyer with a realistic budget who values homeownership itself over space or modern finishes. It's a project-in-waiting for a DIY enthusiast, a manageable asset for an investor, or a cost-effective landing spot for someone who prioritizes location and low carrying costs over square footage.