217 Academy Road – Property Summary

Key Characteristics & Buyer Profile

This is a 1909 home with 2,637 square feet of living space on a 6,786-square-foot lot. Its standout feature is size: citywide, it ranks in the top 2% for living area, well above the average of 1,342 square feet. On its own street (Academy Road), it’s also spacious—top 13%—and above the street average of 1,864 square feet. The lot is above average citywide (top 19%), though slightly below the average for both the street and the Wellington Crescent neighbourhood, where lots tend to be larger.

The assessed value is $437,000, which is around average for Academy Road and citywide, but significantly below the neighbourhood average of $805,600. This gap is partly explained by the home’s age: built in 1909, it’s among the oldest on the street (top 97%) and in the neighbourhood (top 99%). Older homes in this area often carry lower assessed values than newer or extensively renovated properties, despite comparable square footage.

Where the appeal lies: Buyers get a large, citywide-elite floor plan in a prestigious area without paying a premium for a fully modernized or recently built home. The value is in the space and the location, not in turnkey finishes. For someone willing to invest in updates or who appreciates the character of an early-20th-century house, this property offers a rare combination of size and affordability relative to the neighbourhood.

Who it suits: Buyers looking for a substantial home in a top-tier Winnipeg neighbourhood who are comfortable with an older structure and either have renovation plans or don’t mind original details. It’s less suited for someone seeking a low-maintenance, move-in-ready property or a lot large enough for major additions—the land, while decent citywide, is modest for the street.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How does the assessed value compare to similar-sized homes in Wellington Crescent?
It’s well below the neighbourhood average. Homes of similar age and size in this area often appraise higher, likely due to more recent renovations or updates. The $437,000 assessment reflects the property’s original character and may not capture its full market potential if improvements are made.

2. Is the lot size large enough for future expansion or a garage?
At 6,786 square feet, it’s above the city average but smaller than most lots on Academy Road. Adding a garage or significant extension would be possible, but you’d have less flexibility than on larger properties in the same street. Check local zoning and setback requirements before planning.

3. What does “Top 2% citywide for living area” actually mean in practical terms?
It means this home is among the largest 2% of all comparable residences in Winnipeg. With 2,637 square feet, it’s nearly double the city average. Rooms will feel generous, and there’s ample space for multiple bedrooms, a home office, and entertaining areas without the cramped feel of newer subdivisions.

4. Why is the year built important for this property?
A 1909 home will have older construction methods—likely plaster walls, a different foundation type, and possibly knob-and-tube wiring or lead pipes. It also means the house has stood for over a century, which can indicate solid bones if well maintained. However, expect higher ongoing maintenance and potentially higher insurance costs than a newer home.

5. How does this home compare to others on Academy Road overall?
It’s larger than average (top 13% for living area), around average in assessed value (top 45%), and slightly smaller than average in lot size (top 66%). It’s also one of the oldest. So you’re getting a big, old house on a moderately sized lot, at a price that doesn’t reflect the neighbourhood’s upper end. It’s a value play rather than a premium listing.