489 Aberdeen Avenue – Property Summary
Key Characteristics & Buyer Profile
This is a 1914-built home with 945 square feet of living space on a notably large lot of 3,997 square feet. The living area is slightly below average for the street and neighbourhood, but the land area stands out: it ranks in the top 14% on Aberdeen Avenue and top 9% in the William Whyte neighbourhood. The assessed value of $137,000 is below the street and neighbourhood averages, placing it in the bottom half locally but well below the citywide median.
The property’s main appeal is the land-to-structure ratio. Buyers who value outdoor space, garden potential, or future expansion possibilities will find the lot size compelling relative to the home’s footprint. The older construction (1914) and modest square footage suggest this could suit someone looking for a starter home with room to grow, or an investor wanting a property where the land holds more long-term value than the building. It’s less suited for buyers seeking move-in-ready space or a modern floor plan—the living area is small compared to newer homes citywide.
Five Possible FAQs
1. How does the assessed value compare to similar homes nearby?
The assessed value of $137,000 is below the street average of $167,700 and the neighbourhood average of $149,100. Citywide, it falls in the bottom 2% of comparable homes, reflecting both the smaller living area and the older construction.
2. Is this a good property for adding an extension or secondary suite?
The 3,997 sqft lot is well above average for both the street and neighbourhood, which often makes zoning variances or permits for additions easier. However, buyers should check local zoning rules for the William Whyte area, particularly regarding setbacks and allowable building coverage.
3. What’s the typical condition of a 1914 home in this area?
Homes of this vintage in Winnipeg often have updated electrical, plumbing, or foundations—but not always. The year-built ranking (top 44% on the street, top 33% in the neighbourhood) suggests it’s older than many nearby homes, so a thorough inspection for knob-and-tube wiring, lead pipes, or basement moisture is advisable.
4. Why is the land area high compared to the living area?
The property likely has a deep or wide lot that wasn’t subdivided over time, which is common for earlier 20th-century homes. This creates a mismatch—a modest house sitting on generous ground—which some buyers see as potential, others as maintenance.
5. How do property taxes relate to the assessed value?
Property taxes in Winnipeg are based on assessed value, so a $137,000 assessment would produce lower taxes than newer or larger homes in the city. Buyers can confirm the current tax bill with the city’s property assessment database, but the low assessment generally keeps annual costs modest.