Property Summary

Key Characteristics & Buyer Profile

This is a compact 888-square-foot home built in 1947, sitting on a notably generous 7,077-square-foot lot in Winnipeg's Minnetonka area. The living area is well below both the local and city averages—among the smallest 15% citywide—but the land is in the top 16% citywide, giving the property an unusual imbalance. The assessed value of $365,000 falls roughly in the middle of the pack.

Its appeal lies almost entirely in the land-to-structure ratio. For someone willing to renovate, rebuild, or simply live in a smaller footprint while enjoying outdoor space, this offers a rare combination in a city where most homes are larger and lots are smaller. The house itself is age-typical for the street and area, with no standout modern features.

This property would best suit buyers who prioritize land over interior square footage—gardeners, hobbyists, or those planning a future redevelopment. It’s less ideal for anyone seeking move-in-ready space or a conventional family home layout. The below-average living area and older construction mean the house may require significant updates or acceptance of a modest floor plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How does the small living area affect daily living?
At 888 square feet, this is a genuinely compact home—well below the Winnipeg median of around 1,342. Expect tight room sizes, limited storage, and potentially no dedicated dining area. It suits minimalists or those primarily using the home for sleeping and cooking while spending time outdoors or in a workshop.

2. Is the lot large enough to build an addition or a second dwelling?
At 7,077 square feet, the lot is well above average for the area and city. Whether you can add on or build a secondary unit depends on local zoning, setbacks, and utility connections. The land size is a strong asset, but you’d need to check Minnetonka-specific regulations—this isn’t guaranteed.

3. Why is the assessed value only around average despite the large lot?
Assessed value reflects the property as a whole, including the structure. A 1947 home of 888 square feet has limited replacement value and likely needs updates, which pulls the total down. The large lot helps, but not enough to push the value significantly above the median for the area.

4. What are common issues with homes built in 1947?
Typical concerns for a house of this vintage include outdated electrical (knob-and-tube or insufficient amperage), aging plumbing (galvanized pipes possible), single-pane windows, and potential asbestos in insulation or flooring. Foundation and roof condition are also key due to age—an inspection is critical.

5. How does this property compare to others on Riel Avenue specifically?
On Riel Avenue, this home has one of the smallest living areas (bottom 3%) and the second-oldest year built (bottom 9%). However, its lot size ranks in the top 23% on the street. It’s an outlier—most neighbors have larger, newer homes, so this property represents a distinct, more land-focused value proposition in that immediate context.