323 Manitoba Avenue – Property Summary
Key Characteristics & Buyer Profile
This 1915 home offers 1,965 square feet of living space on a 3,993-square-foot lot. What stands out immediately is the size: it ranks in the top 3% on its street, top 5% in the William Whyte neighbourhood, and top 12% citywide for living area. The assessed value sits at $186,000—roughly average for the street and above average for the neighbourhood, though well below the citywide median of $390,100. The lot is generous by neighbourhood standards (top 9%), but slightly below average for the street itself and well under typical city lot sizes.
The appeal here is space and relative affordability. A buyer gets a significantly larger-than-average home in a neighbourhood where many comparable properties are smaller, without paying a premium for it. The older construction (1915) means character details and solid build quality are likely, but also potential maintenance considerations. The land-to-building ratio is balanced—enough yard for outdoor use without the upkeep burden of a sprawling lot.
This property suits buyers who prioritize interior square footage over a trendy location, are comfortable with an older home in a working-class neighbourhood, and want more room for the money than newer suburban developments offer. It would also appeal to those looking for a renovation project in an area with upside potential, given the neighbourhood's above-average assessed values relative to citywide benchmarks.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How does the assessed value compare to similar homes in the area?
At $186,000, it's about $30,000 below the street average of $216,600, but roughly $37,000 above the neighbourhood average of $149,100. Citywide, it falls in the bottom 6% of comparable homes, reflecting both the neighbourhood's lower price point and the home's age.
2. Does the 1915 build date mean major renovation work is needed?
Not necessarily, but it's worth investigating. The home ranks near the middle among older properties on the street and in the neighbourhood, suggesting it's not unusually dated for its context. However, a 110-year-old home will have different systems (plumbing, electrical, foundation) than a newer one. A thorough inspection focused on knob-and-tube wiring, galvanized pipes, and foundation condition is recommended.
3. How does the lot size affect usability?
The 3,993-square-foot lot is generous for the neighbourhood (top 9%) but modest citywide. It offers enough room for a decent backyard, garden, or small workshop, but don't expect sprawling lawn space. The lot is slightly smaller than the street average, so neighbours may have comparable or larger yards.
4. Are there any hidden costs associated with a home this size in this neighbourhood?
Possible. Larger-than-average living area means higher heating, cooling, and maintenance costs. Older homes can also mean higher insurance premiums and potential zoning or permit hurdles for renovations, especially in a neighbourhood like William Whyte that may have heritage considerations. Check with the city before planning major changes.
5. Who typically buys homes in this area—and is resale a concern?
The data shows the neighbourhood's assessed values are above average relative to the city in terms of rank, which suggests steady demand within a modest price bracket. Buyers here are often first-time homeowners, investors, or families looking for affordable space. Resale would likely appeal to the same demographic, especially if the interior is well-maintained. Location is less central than pricier areas, but the size premium gives it a unique draw.