1565 Wolseley Avenue W – Property Summary
Key Characteristics & Buyer Profile
This is a 1913 home with 1,040 square feet of living space on a 2,799-square-foot lot, located in Winnipeg’s West Wolseley neighbourhood. The assessed value is $340,000.
The property’s standout feature is its value proposition relative to the immediate neighbourhood. While the living area and lot size are notably smaller than average for the street—ranked in the bottom 10% on both counts—the assessed value sits much closer to the neighbourhood average (ranked 16th out of 36 homes). This means you’re paying roughly in line with the area’s median price, but for a smaller footprint. It’s not a “starter home” discount so much as an entry point into a street where most properties are significantly larger and pricier.
The home is old even by local standards. It predates most homes in the area and the vast majority citywide. Buyers should be comfortable with the realities of an early-20th-century house: smaller rooms, likely less insulation, and the potential for ongoing maintenance tied to age.
Who it suits: First-time buyers who want to be in West Wolseley—a desirable, walkable neighbourhood with established character—without stretching for a full-sized family home. Also suited to someone who values location over square footage, or who sees potential to add value through renovation (provided zoning and budget allow). Less suited to anyone expecting a turnkey property, generous living space, or a large yard.
Five Possible FAQs
1. How does the $340,000 assessed value compare to what I’d actually pay?
The assessed value is a benchmark used for property taxes, not a market price. Homes in this part of West Wolseley often sell above assessment, especially if they’re in good condition or on a quiet street. Check recent sales on Wolseley Avenue or nearby blocks for a clearer picture. The fact that this home’s assessment is close to the neighbourhood average, despite being much smaller, suggests the land or location is carrying significant value.
2. Is the small lot a problem for resale?
It could be, depending on the buyer. Lot size is the property’s weakest metric—ranking in the bottom 10% citywide and on the street. That said, many buyers in older neighbourhoods prioritize location over yard size. The trade-off is less outdoor maintenance and, often, a lower purchase price relative to neighbours. If you eventually sell to someone who wants a garden or expansion space, you’ll have a smaller pool of interest.
3. What should I look out for in a 1913 home?
Beyond the obvious (roof, foundation, wiring, plumbing), pay attention to the windows and insulation. Homes from this era often have single-pane windows and minimal wall insulation, which can mean higher heating costs. Also check for knob-and-tube wiring and lead paint—common in pre-1950s homes. A specialist home inspection is strongly recommended.
4. How walkable is the area?
West Wolseley is one of Winnipeg’s most pedestrian-friendly neighbourhoods. You’re close to the Assiniboine River trails, access to the Sherbrook Street and Osborne Village corridors, and a mix of local shops and cafes. The trade-off is that you’re also on a busier street (Wolseley Avenue), which means more traffic noise than a side street.
5. Could I add a second storey or expand the house?
Possibly, but it’s not straightforward. The lot is only 2,799 square feet, and any addition would need to comply with zoning setbacks and height restrictions. Given the home’s age, structural upgrades (foundation, framing) might be required to support a second floor. Talk to the city’s planning department or a local architect before assuming you can expand. In many cases, a small addition or a basement reno is more realistic than a full vertical build.