289 Manitoba Avenue – Property Summary

Key Characteristics & Buyer Profile

This is a 1905 home with 3,088 square feet of living space and a 3,555-square-foot lot. The standout feature is the living area: it ranks in the top 1% on the street, in the neighbourhood, and citywide. That’s exceptionally rare for a property that’s over a century old, and it means the house offers far more interior space than most homes in the area—about three times the street average.

The assessed value is $269,000. This places it above average for the street and in the top 4% for the neighbourhood, but well below the citywide average of $390,100. That gap suggests the property is relatively affordable compared to similarly sized homes elsewhere in Winnipeg. The land area is slightly below the citywide norm but above average for the neighbourhood, so the yard is reasonable without being oversized.

The buyer this suits is someone who values interior space over a big lot, and is comfortable with an older home. The 1905 build year means systems and structure will need attention—this isn’t a move-in-ready for someone who wants modern finishes without work. It’s a good fit for a buyer looking to get more square footage for the price in a central Winnipeg neighbourhood, particularly someone with renovation experience or a long-term view. It’s less suited to someone who wants a newer, low-maintenance property or a large private yard.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why is the assessed value so low compared to the city average, given the size?
The property’s age and the neighbourhood’s overall market values drive the assessment down. In William Whyte, the average home is valued at $149,100, so $269,000 is already well above that. Citywide, newer homes in higher-demand areas drive the average up. The low assessment relative to size is actually a potential advantage for property taxes.

2. Is the living area measurement likely accurate, or could it include unfinished space?
The data comes from municipal assessment records, which typically count all above-grade finished living area. Basements and unfinished attics are usually excluded. It’s worth confirming with the listing agent whether the 3,088 square feet includes only fully finished, habitable rooms.

3. How does the small lot affect future resale or renovation potential?
The lot is 3,555 square feet, which is below the city average but typical for older urban infill neighbourhoods. This limits expansion possibilities—major additions would be challenging. However, it also means less yard maintenance, and the land-to-building ratio is already efficient. Buyers looking for a garage or large extension should verify setback rules with the city.

4. What should a buyer know about a 1905 home in this area?
Older homes often have knob-and-tube wiring, lead or galvanized plumbing, and foundations that may need reinforcement. In William Whyte, many homes from this era have been updated in parts but not systematically. A thorough home inspection focused on the electrical, plumbing, and structural integrity is essential. Renovation costs can add up quickly, so it’s worth budgeting for surprises.

5. How does the home compare to others currently for sale in William Whyte?
Most homes in the area are smaller—around 1,100 square feet—and many are also older, with similar assessment values. This property is an outlier for size, so it will appeal to a narrower range of buyers. It may take longer to sell than a typical bungalow in the neighbourhood, but it also has less direct competition. Its price per square foot is likely very low compared to newer listings.