Property Summary: 219 McLean Street, Varsity View, Winnipeg
Key Characteristics & Appeal
This is a classic, well-maintained 1950s one-storey home on a large, quiet lot in the established Varsity View neighborhood. Its key characteristics include a fully finished basement, a detached garage, and a generous land size of over 5,300 sqft—a standout feature that offers ample outdoor space and ranks highly within the local area. With 648 sqft of living space, the home itself is compact and efficient, appealing to those seeking a manageable footprint without compromising on yard size.
The primary appeal lies in its location and lot. Varsity View is a mature, central neighborhood known for its stability and convenience. The property suits first-time homebuyers, downsizers, or investors looking for a solid entry into the market with a low-maintenance house and significant outdoor potential. It represents a practical opportunity rather than luxury, ideal for someone who values a large private yard for gardening, recreation, or future expansion more than expansive interior square footage. A thoughtful perspective is that this home offers a chance to own a proportionally large piece of land in a central area, which is increasingly rare, providing both immediate utility and long-term value in the form of land equity.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the house too small at 648 sqft?
While the living area is modest, the fully finished basement effectively doubles the usable space, creating room for storage, a recreation area, or additional bedrooms. The layout is likely efficient for one or two people.
2. What does the lot size ranking mean for me?
The lot ranks in the top 47% on its street and top 16% in the neighborhood for size. This means you're getting a larger-than-average yard for the area, which is a key asset for privacy, outdoor activities, or future projects like a garden or shed.
3. As a 76-year-old home, what should I be prepared for?
While the home has been maintained, a pre-purchase inspection is essential. You should budget for updates to older core systems (like plumbing or electrical) that may be original, and consider the energy efficiency of windows and insulation typical of its era.
4. Who is the typical buyer in Varsity View?
The neighborhood attracts a mix of long-term residents, university staff and students due to its proximity to the University of Manitoba, and young professionals. It's a community-oriented area with a stable, no-frills character.
5. How should I interpret the assessment value versus the listing price?
The municipal assessment of $291,000 is for tax purposes and is a historical snapshot. The listing price is set by the current market. The assessment being in the lower third for the city suggests the home is viewed by the city as a more modest property, which can mean relatively lower property taxes—a useful ongoing cost advantage.