Property Overview: 239 Washington Avenue, Winnipeg

Key Characteristics & Buyer Appeal

This is a classic one-storey home built in 1914, situated on a standard 3,002 sqft lot in the Chalmers neighbourhood. Its key features include a detached garage and a basement that is present but not renovated. With 880 sqft of living space, the house itself is compact, offering a straightforward layout typical of its era.

The primary appeal lies in its position as a land-value opportunity and a potential entry point into the Winnipeg market. The property's assessed value is notably below average for its street, neighbourhood, and the city at large, which is reflected in its recent sale history. This presents a clear value proposition for buyers with renovation or redevelopment plans, or those seeking minimal property tax overhead. The lot size is average for the immediate area, offering reasonable outdoor space without the burden of an excessively large yard.

This home would best suit a practical buyer—perhaps a first-time investor, a hands-on renovator, or someone looking for a modest, no-frills starter home. It’s not a move-in-ready showpiece, but a property with foundational utility. A less obvious perspective is its potential for someone interested in "right-sizing"; its smaller living area and lower carrying costs could appeal to those seeking simplicity and efficiency over space. Its age and condition suggest a project, so it requires a buyer comfortable with either a live-in renovation or a strategic hold.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What does "basement, not renovated" typically mean?
It confirms the house has a basement, but it is in original or unfinished condition. Buyers should budget for potential updates to moisture control, insulation, or foundational repairs, and view it as raw space rather than livable square footage.

2. Why is the assessed value so much lower than the city average?
The assessed value is based on the property's current state, size, and recent sales. Its age, compact living area, and unrenovated condition place it in a lower value tier, especially when compared to newer or significantly updated homes city-wide.

3. Is the lot large enough for an addition or redevelopment?
At just over 3,000 sqft, the lot is average for Chalmers. Any expansion or redevelopment would be subject to Winnipeg's zoning bylaws and likely require careful planning to work within the standard lot coverage and setback rules.

4. How does the 1914 build year affect the home?
Homes from this era often have solid structural bones but require careful attention to aging systems like wiring, plumbing, and insulation. It represents both character and a responsibility for ongoing maintenance or modernization.

5. Who are the most comparable nearby properties?
The listing identifies homes with similar assessed values, which are useful for understanding tax brackets. For a true comparison of liveability and market value, however, prospective buyers should also view similar-sized, renovated homes on Washington Avenue and in Chalmers.