Property Overview
178 Selkirk Avenue is a historic one-and-three-quarter storey home in Winnipeg's North Point Douglas neighbourhood. Built in 1886, it sits on a large, approximately 5,000 sqft lot and offers a generous 2,318 sqft of living space. The home features a detached garage and a basement that is present but not renovated. Its key appeal lies in its substantial size, both in the home and the land, within an urban neighbourhood. The property presents a clear opportunity for restoration and customization.
This home would suit a specific buyer: a hands-on renovator or investor with a vision for historic character. It is not a move-in-ready property but a project with significant potential. The buyer should be prepared for the realities and rewards of revitalizing a 140-year-old structure. Its large footprint and lot size are rare finds in the city, offering more space than over 95% of homes in the neighbourhood. The very low assessed value reflects its current condition but also indicates a potentially lower entry point for a substantial property.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does "basement, not renovated" typically mean for a home of this age?
It indicates the basement is unfinished or in a very basic, utilitarian state. In a house from 1886, this could mean stone or concrete foundation walls, low ceilings, and exposed mechanical systems. It represents significant potential for additional living space or storage but will require investment and likely updates to meet modern standards for moisture control and insulation.
2. The assessed value seems very low compared to the home's size. Why is that?
Municipal assessed value is primarily for tax purposes and often lags behind market value, especially for unique properties. For a home in need of significant work, the assessment heavily reflects its current condition rather than its potential or the land value. It should not be viewed as a market price but as one data point.
3. Who is the ideal buyer for this property?
The ideal buyer is a renovator, builder, or patient investor. This is a project for someone with the skills, budget, and timeline to restore a historic home. It could also appeal to a buyer seeking a large amount of space (both indoors and outdoors) in the city, for whom cosmetic condition is a secondary concern to square footage and lot size.
4. What are the less obvious considerations with a home built in 1886?
Beyond visible updates, consider the state of the foundational structure, the type of wiring and plumbing (which may need full replacement), and historical designation or heritage character guidelines that might affect renovation plans. The charm comes with the responsibility of maintaining and upgrading very old systems.
5. How does the lot size compare to typical properties?
The lot is a standout feature. At nearly 5,000 sqft, it is larger than approximately 86% of lots on its street and in North Point Douglas. This offers unusual potential for outdoor space, gardens, parking, or even future additions, subject to zoning bylaws.