440 Burrows Avenue – Property Summary

Key Characteristics & Buyer Profile

This is a compact, older home in Winnipeg’s William Whyte neighbourhood, built in 1905. The living area is 810 square feet, which is below average compared to other homes on the street, in the area, and across the city. The land is similarly modest: 2,810 square feet, slightly smaller than typical lots in the neighbourhood and well below citywide averages. Its assessed value is $116,000—around average for William Whyte but significantly lower than the citywide median.

The property’s main appeal is affordability. For a buyer who doesn’t need much space and is willing to take on an older home with smaller rooms and a smaller lot, this could represent a relatively low-cost entry point into the market. The assessed value being so far below citywide benchmarks means lower property taxes than most homes in Winnipeg.

Where this property might not suit everyone: the below-average living area is a real constraint for families or anyone who works from home and needs dedicated space. The 1905 build date also means it likely has quirks and maintenance needs typical of century homes—foundation, wiring, plumbing, or insulation issues wouldn’t be surprising. Buyers should go in with eyes open about potential renovation costs.

This would suit a first-time buyer looking for something inexpensive, an investor seeking a low-cost rental property (assuming it’s livable), or someone with a trades background who can handle upgrades themselves. It’s less suited to anyone wanting a move-in-ready home with modern finishes or generous square footage.

Five Possible FAQs

1. How does the property’s living area compare to other similar homes?
It’s below average at all levels. On Burrows Avenue, this home is smaller than roughly 86% of comparable homes (median living area on the street is 1,116 sqft). In William Whyte, it’s smaller than about 81% of similar properties. Citywide, it ranks in the bottom 10% for living area.

2. What does the assessed value tell me about this property?
The assessed value of $116,000 is fairly typical for William Whyte (where the neighborhood median is $149,100), but it’s well below the citywide median of $390,100. This translates to lower property taxes than most Winnipeg homes. It also suggests the home is priced to reflect its age and size, not recent renovations.

3. Is a 1905 home a risky investment?
Not necessarily, but it depends on maintenance history. Older homes often have solid construction (e.g., old-growth lumber) but may need updating in electrical, plumbing, roofing, and insulation. A thorough home inspection is strongly recommended. Some buyers find these homes charming; others see them as money pits if they haven’t been maintained.

4. What’s the lot like, and is the yard usable?
The land is 2,810 sqft—smaller than average in the city but fairly typical for a century home in an older Winnipeg neighbourhood. It’s enough for a small garden, a shed, or a patio, but not for expansive landscaping or large outdoor projects.

5. Who typically buys in William Whyte, and what’s the area like?
William Whyte is a central, older neighbourhood with a mix of historic homes and newer infill. It tends to attract budget-conscious buyers, renovators, and investors. Amenities are more limited than in pricier areas, but it’s close to downtown and major routes. The neighbourhood has seen some reinvestment, but it’s still a place where you’ll find more fixer-uppers than polished properties.