540 Burrows Avenue – Property Summary

Key Characteristics & Buyer Profile

This is a 1,144 sqft home built in 1909, located on Burrows Avenue in Winnipeg’s William Whyte neighbourhood. Its living area sits around the average for both the street and the neighbourhood, though it's slightly smaller than the citywide norm. The property's assessed value is notably low—$94,000—ranking in the bottom 3% on its street and bottom 17% in the area. The lot is also compact at 2,463 sqft, well below typical sizes at every level.

The main appeal here is affordability. The assessed value is significantly below the street average ($227,300) and the neighbourhood average ($149,100), which suggests the property is priced to attract buyers who are cost-conscious or looking to enter the market with a lower upfront investment. The home is older, but its living area is functionally comparable to many nearby houses. That said, the small land area and older construction mean it may not suit someone looking for a large yard or a move-in-ready modern home. It would be a better fit for a first-time buyer, an investor seeking a low-cost rental or flip, or someone willing to put in renovation work over time to build equity. The combination of a small lot and 1909 build also hints at potential limitations for future additions or extensions, which is worth considering if long-term expansion is a goal.

Five Possible FAQs

1. How does the assessed value compare to similar homes nearby?
The assessed value of $94,000 is well below the street average of $227,300 and the neighbourhood average of $149,100. It ranks near the bottom citywide, which reflects both the home's age and its modest size. This low assessment typically translates into lower property taxes, but it may also signal that the home needs upgrades or that the area has not seen strong price appreciation.

2. Is the living space adequate for a small family?
At 1,144 sqft, the living area is almost exactly average for the street and neighbourhood. It's slightly smaller than the typical citywide home (1,342 sqft), but still functional for a small family or couple. The floor plan and layout are not detailed here, so it's worth confirming whether the space is efficiently arranged.

3. Why is the land area so small compared to other properties?
The lot is 2,463 sqft, which is smaller than 84% of homes on the same street and 97% citywide. This is common for older infill homes in central Winnipeg neighbourhoods like William Whyte, where lots were subdivided more aggressively. Future buyers should be aware that yard space, parking, and any potential for an addition will be limited.

4. What does the 1909 build year mean for maintenance and costs?
Homes from this era often have solid bones—thick plaster walls, older dimensional lumber—but may need updates to electrical, plumbing, insulation, or foundation work. The property ranks in the bottom 5% citywide by year built, so it's older than most homes in Winnipeg. A thorough home inspection is strongly recommended, particularly for the roof, basement, and heating system.

5. Who typically buys in the William Whyte neighbourhood?
William Whyte is a central, working-class area with a mix of older homes and some recent infill construction. Buyers are often first-time homeowners, investors looking for affordable properties, or renovators. The neighbourhood has seen gradual change, but it's not a high-demand area compared to more established south or west Winnipeg suburbs. Proximity to downtown and lower entry prices are the main draws.