309 Aberdeen Avenue – Property Summary
Key Characteristics & Buyer Fit
This is a compact, older home (built 1918) with a living area of 642 square feet and a 3,000 sqft lot. The property ranks very low in living space compared to street, neighbourhood, and city averages—it’s smaller than 98% of comparable homes citywide. The assessed value is also well below average, sitting at $93,000, which is about a quarter of the citywide average for similar properties. The land area is typical for the street and neighbourhood but falls short of the city median, reflecting the dense, older urban fabric of the William Whyte area.
Where the appeal lies: The main draw is affordability. This is one of the lowest-priced homes in Winnipeg relative to its peers. The modest size and older construction also suggest potential for a buyer interested in a modest renovation or a starter home that won't stretch the budget. The lot is a standard city size, and the house itself is a concrete example of early 20th-century infill housing—a niche that appeals to those who appreciate character and can work within tighter square footage.
Who it suits: Budget-conscious first-time buyers, investors looking for a low-cost entry into the Winnipeg market, or someone willing to trade space for a lower initial investment. It may also suit a downsizer who values location over size, provided the layout works. It’s less suited to families needing room to grow or buyers expecting modern finishes or a large yard.
Five Possible FAQs
1. Is the low assessed value a red flag or an opportunity?
The $93,000 assessment is significantly below both the street and neighbourhood averages. This isn't necessarily a sign of structural issues—it primarily reflects the small living area and older age compared to many nearby homes. For a buyer, it means lower property taxes and a low purchase barrier, but you should still budget for a thorough inspection to rule out deferred maintenance common in century homes.
2. How much usable living space is 642 square feet?
That’s roughly the size of a small one-bedroom apartment with a separate living and dining area. In a detached house, it usually means a compact floor plan—likely two small bedrooms, one bathroom, and a combined living/dining room. The actual layout isn't provided here, so you’d want to verify whether the basement is finished or if there’s attic space that could be developed.
3. What does the “Top 98%” ranking for living area really mean?
It means this home is in the smallest 2% of comparable houses citywide. That’s a stark statistic—buyers should be prepared for tight quarters. It also means resale could be slower unless you’re marketing to the same niche of buyers who value price over space.
4. Is the land area of 3,000 sqft enough for additions or a garden?
It’s a typical inner-city lot—enough for a small front and back yard, but not large enough for a major addition without potentially running into setback or zoning limits. For gardening, it’s workable for a small vegetable plot or flower beds, but not for expansive landscaping. The lot size is average for the street and neighbourhood, so it’s consistent with what you’d expect in this part of Winnipeg.
5. How does being built in 1918 affect the property?
Century homes often come with charming details (thick plaster walls, hardwood floors, possibly original trim) but also potential issues like outdated electrical, knob-and-tube wiring, aging plumbing, and foundation settling. The home’s age ranks better on street and neighbourhood levels than citywide, meaning it’s actually older than most Winnipeg homes. A pre-purchase inspection focused on the roof, foundation, and mechanical systems is essential.