Property Overview

This home at 1853 Alexander Avenue in Winnipeg's Brooklands neighbourhood is a one-and-a-half storey house built in 1910. Its key appeal lies in its relatively generous living space and lot size for the area, presented as a land-value opportunity with renovation potential. The house sits on a 2,364 sqft lot and features 1,140 sqft of living area, which is above average for both its immediate street and the broader Brooklands area. It has an unrenovated basement and no garage. The property last sold in 2019 for $13,100 and currently holds an assessed value of $150,000.

Key Characteristics & Ideal Buyer

The standout feature of this property is the land-to-value ratio. While the house itself requires updating, the lot size is substantial for the central neighbourhood, offering more outdoor space than many nearby properties. The living area is also notably larger than many comparable homes on the street and in Brooklands, suggesting a well-proportioned layout for its era.

Its primary appeal is to value-driven buyers looking for a foothold in the market, with a focus on future potential rather than immediate move-in condition. It would suit an investor looking for a hold-and-renovate project, a handy first-time buyer willing to put in sweat equity, or a buyer prioritizing lot size over a modernized interior. A less obvious perspective is that its 1910 build date and classic style could attract someone interested in the character and architectural history of early Winnipeg homes, viewing the needed updates as a chance for a thoughtful restoration.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What does "above average living area for the street" actually mean?
Compared to other homes directly on Alexander Avenue, this house has more interior space (1,140 sqft) than the typical home there (approx. 1,015 sqft). This means you're getting a larger-than-typical floor plan for this specific location.

2. Why is the assessed value so much higher than the 2019 sale price?
The 2019 sale price of $13,100 was exceptionally low, likely not reflecting market value at that time and possibly indicating a distressed sale or unique circumstances. The current $150,000 assessment is a more recent valuation for municipal tax purposes and is more aligned with current area benchmarks.

3. What are the main considerations with an unrenovated basement?
An unrenovated basement typically means original foundations, flooring, and mechanical systems. It requires a thorough inspection for moisture, insulation, and structural integrity. While it offers blank-canvas potential, budgeting for necessary upgrades or repairs is essential.

4. How does the lack of a garage affect daily life and value here?
In this neighbourhood, street parking is common. The lack of a garage lowers the purchase price but means dealing with Winnipeg winters without sheltered parking. It also removes a potential storage or workshop space, though the lot size may allow for adding a garage in the future, subject to permits.

5. The data shows the lot is "below average" citywide. Is that a concern?
Not for this neighbourhood. While the lot is smaller than the Winnipeg average (which includes vast suburban properties), it is actually competitive within Brooklands. The key point is that it's larger than many lots on the same street, giving you a relative advantage in your immediate area.