Property Overview
This two-and-a-half storey home on Aikins Street, built in 1913, presents a classic Winnipeg character property with significant space and a strong value proposition. Its primary appeal lies in its generous proportions—over 2,000 square feet of living space on a 3,000+ square foot lot—which rank it in the top tier for size both locally and city-wide. Having sold recently in January 2024, it shows clear market momentum. The home suits buyers looking for a substantial project with good bones, whether that's a long-term, gradual renovation for a growing family, or an investor seeking a value-add opportunity in the St. John's neighbourhood. Its unrenovated basement and lack of a garage indicate room for customization and future equity building, appealing to those who want to put their own stamp on a home rather than pay a premium for finished work. A thoughtful perspective is that while the home is over a century old, its above-average lot size and living area for the area provide a rare commodity: space for expansion or outdoor living in a mature neighbourhood, which is often harder to find than a modern renovation.
Key Details & FAQs
Key Characteristics & Appeal
- Type & Space: A two-and-a-half storey character home (1913) featuring a notably large living area (2,046 sq ft) and a sizable lot (3,014 sq ft).
- Condition & Potential: The basement is noted as unrenovated, and the property has no garage, presenting a clear canvas for updates and personalization.
- Market Position: Recent sale data (January 2024) shows active demand. The home's living area ranks in the top 10% city-wide, emphasizing its standout spaciousness for the price point.
- Ideal Buyer: Best suited for hands-on buyers, families seeking space to grow into, or value-oriented investors comfortable with a property that requires updates. It appeals to those who prioritize square footage and lot size over move-in-ready finishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does "two-and-a-half storey" mean?
This is a common architectural style for homes of this era. It typically means the second floor has full-height ceilings, while the "half" storey refers to a third level, often with sloped ceilings (within the roofline), which could be used as additional bedrooms or flexible space.
2. The basement is "not renovated." What should I expect?
You should anticipate a functional but unfinished space. It likely has the home's core mechanical systems (furnace, water heater) and provides storage or laundry area, but will not have finished walls, ceilings, or flooring suitable for living space without investment.
3. How does the assessed value relate to the recent sale price?
The city's assessed value for taxation purposes is $230k. The property sold for $257k in January 2024. The sale price is the current market indicator, which is approximately 12% above the assessment, reflecting recent market conditions and the property's value to buyers.
4. The home lacks a garage. Is there potential to add one?
The lot size is well above average for the street and neighbourhood, which generally provides better potential for additions like a garage or driveway. Any new structure would require checking current zoning bylaws and obtaining proper permits.
5. The home is 113 years old. Are there major concerns?
As with any century-old home, proactive inspection of the foundation, roof, wiring, and plumbing is essential. Its age also means it has character and built-to-last materials, but a thorough inspection is crucial to understand the scope of any needed repairs or updates.