Property Overview

This is a 1914 home with roughly 1,282 square feet of living space on a standard city lot of about 4,800 square feet. Its assessed value sits at $281,000, notably below most comparable properties on the same street, in the Deer Lodge area, and across Winnipeg.

The appeal here is pragmatic rather than aesthetic. You’re getting a livable amount of space—slightly larger than the Deer Lodge average—at a tax assessment that undercuts most homes in the neighbourhood. The catch is clear: the home is old, and its assessed value reflects that. It ranks in the bottom tier citywide for age (1914 puts it in the bottom 11%) and for valuation (bottom 24%). This isn’t a turnkey property; it’s a candidate for someone who sees value in an older structure and is prepared to invest in updates over time.

This property would suit a buyer comfortable with a fixer-upper or a homeowner who prioritises a lower tax bill and a decent floor plan over a modern finish. It could also work for an investor looking for a rental with below-market holding costs or for someone who wants to be in Deer Lodge without paying a premium for a renovated house.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why is the assessed value so much lower than the street average?

The street average for Woodlawn Street is $373,600, while this home is assessed at $281,000. The likely reason is condition and deferred maintenance. Older homes often carry a lower assessment if they haven’t been updated in kitchens, bathrooms, windows, or mechanicals. The property’s 1914 construction date also anchors it historically; tax assessments tend to reflect a conservative valuation when significant upgrades have not been made.

2. Is a 1,282-square-foot house from 1914 likely to have asbestos or lead paint?

Yes, it is plausible. Homes built before the 1970s may contain lead-based paint and materials with asbestos, such as old floor tiles, pipe insulation, or siding. Any buyer should plan for a pre-purchase inspection that specifically addresses these materials. This isn’t a deal-breaker, but it affects renovation costs and safety protocols.

3. How does the lot size compare to newer subdivisions in Winnipeg?

At 4,806 square feet, this lot is average for the Deer Lodge area but smaller than typical suburban lots in newer Winnipeg developments, where 5,000 to 6,000 square feet is common. However, it likely offers a more established setting with mature trees and closer proximity to amenities than a newer subdivision would.

4. What are common issues to watch for in a 1914 house?

Beyond aged wiring and plumbing, look for foundation settlement (common in older river-adjacent Winnipeg homes), knob-and-tube or aluminum wiring, insufficient insulation, and windows that are drafty or original. Also, check for evidence of past water penetration in the basement. These issues are widespread in houses of this era and should be factored into your budget.

5. Why would the living area rank higher in Deer Lodge than citywide?

The home’s 1,282 square feet is above the Deer Lodge average of 1,197, meaning it’s roomier than most homes in its immediate area. Citywide, the average is 1,342, so this home falls slightly behind the Winnipeg median. In practice, you’re getting a unit of space that feels generous for the neighbourhood but is modest compared to newer construction elsewhere.