Property Overview: 1816 Alexander Avenue, Brooklands, Winnipeg

Section 1: Key Characteristics & Appeal

This one-and-a-half storey home, built in 1915, presents a straightforward opportunity in Winnipeg's Brooklands neighbourhood. Its key characteristics include a 1,006 sqft living area, a full but unrenovated basement, and no garage. The lot is a notable feature at 2,373 sqft, which is larger than many in the immediate area and offers potential for outdoor space or future expansion.

The primary appeal lies in its position as an entry-point property with a very low assessed value. It suits a specific type of buyer: the practical first-time purchaser, an investor looking for a rental property, or a hands-on individual seeking a renovation project. Its living space is actually above average for Brooklands, suggesting a solid foundation to work with. A thoughtful perspective is that this home represents a chance to own a character property (pre-World War I) on a decent-sized lot in a central neighbourhood, a combination that is increasingly rare at this price point. It’s a property where the value is in the land and the structure's potential, not in current finishes or amenities.

Section 2: Frequently Asked Questions

1. What does "below average" assessed value really indicate?
The assessed value is significantly lower than averages for the street, neighbourhood, and city. This typically reflects the home's age and condition (including the unrenovated basement), not its location. It often translates to lower property taxes, which is a key ongoing cost savings for a buyer.

2. Is the lack of a garage a major drawback?
For many in this neighbourhood, street parking is common. However, it is a consideration for daily convenience and vehicle security. The lot size does provide space to potentially add a garage or parking pad in the future, subject to local bylaws.

3. What should I know about a 1915-built home?
Homes of this era were built with durable materials like true-dimension lumber, but systems (like wiring and plumbing) are likely outdated unless already upgraded. A thorough inspection is essential to understand the condition of the foundation, roof, and mechanical systems.

4. The living area is ranked "above average" for Brooklands. Why is that important?
While the home needs work, it is not a tiny footprint. Compared to other homes in Brooklands, it offers more interior space to start with. This means a renovation could focus more on modernization and layout rather than solely on adding square footage.

5. How does the lot size compare to nearby properties?
The land area is in the top 30% on its own street, meaning it's larger than many direct neighbours. In a mature neighbourhood, a larger lot is a fixed asset that cannot be replicated and provides valuable flexibility, whether for gardening, play space, or future additions.