261 Tecumseh Street – Property Summary

Key Characteristics & Buyer Profile

This is a 1,436-square-foot home built in 1907 on a 2,283-square-foot lot in Winnipeg’s West Alexander neighbourhood. The living area is notably larger than typical homes on the same street (ranking in the top 21%), though both the house and lot are modest by citywide standards. The assessed value sits at $153,000—roughly in line with street and neighbourhood averages, but far below the city median.

The appeal here is practical, not flashy. You’re getting above-average interior space for the immediate area on a compact lot, in a neighbourhood of older, similarly sized homes. The older construction (before 1910) can mean solid bones if maintained, but likely comes with the usual older-home considerations—dated systems, possible knob-and-tube wiring, or lead pipes. The low land area and below-average citywide assessed value signal this is not a property you buy for land appreciation or curb appeal in a high-demand zone. It's a home for someone who prioritises square footage and a settled street character over lot size or modern finishes. It would suit first-time buyers looking to get inside a larger older home without paying the west-end premium, or someone who values a quiet, established block and doesn’t mind trades over turnkey.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why is the assessed value so low compared to the city average?
The $153,000 assessment reflects both the home’s age (1907) and its small land area relative to Winnipeg’s newer suburban stock. On its own street and within West Alexander, the value is actually typical—it’s only when compared citywide, where newer homes on large lots dominate, that it appears low.

2. How does the living area compare to other homes in the area?
At 1,436 square feet, it’s about 11% larger than the neighbourhood average (1,299 sqft) and 25% larger than the street average (1,151 sqft). This makes it one of the roomier houses on Tecumseh Street, though it’s still a compact footprint overall.

3. What should I expect from a house built in 1907?
Likely solid framing and good-quality old-growth lumber, but high odds of outdated electrical, plumbing, and insulation. You may also encounter foundation shifts or roof repairs sooner than on a mid-century home. A thorough inspection is strongly advised, especially for wiring and drainage.

4. Is the small land area a problem?
It depends on your needs. The lot (2,283 sqft) is below average even for West Alexander and is very small by citywide standards. That means limited yard space, less privacy from neighbours, and minimal room for additions. But for someone who prefers low-maintenance outdoor space and doesn’t garden or entertain outside much, it’s a non-issue.

5. How does this property rank in the neighbourhood?
It falls in the middle of the pack on its street for both value and age, but places well for living area (top 21% on street, top 34% in neighbourhood). Land area is a weak point—it’s in the bottom 9% of West Alexander lots. Essentially, you’re getting more house than usual on a smaller-than-usual piece of land, which is a trade-off worth weighing.