679 Magnus Avenue – Winnipeg

Key Characteristics & Buyer Profile

This is a 1,019 sqft house built in 1905 on a 2,463 sqft lot in the William Whyte neighbourhood. Its assessed value is $125,000.

Where the property stands out is relative affordability. On its own street, it ranks in the bottom 25% for assessed value, and citywide it sits in the bottom 1%—meaning it’s one of the most entry-level priced homes in Winnipeg. The living area is roughly average for the street and neighbourhood, though below the citywide norm.

The appeal is not in size or modern finish, but in the land and structure being a base for someone willing to invest sweat equity or renovation work. A 1905 build means older bones, but also a home that’s survived over a century—likely with solid original framing, though systems may be dated. The lot is modest, notably smaller than the street average of 3,518 sqft and far below the city average of 6,570 sqft.

This property suits: first-time buyers with limited budget who are handier than average, Buyers targeting the low end of the Winnipeg market who see value in an older, smaller home on a quiet inner-city street. It’s less suited to someone looking for a turnkey family home or a large yard. The neighbourhood (William Whyte) is older and denser, with a mix of character homes and rental properties—worth a visit at different times of day.

Five Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is the assessed value of $125,000 realistic for this home?
Yes. The city’s assessment places it below the street average ($178k) and neighbourhood average ($149k). It ranks in the bottom 1% citywide, which reflects both the age, the smaller land size, and likely condition. Offers should be weighed against recent sale comparables in the immediate area, not just citywide data.

2. How old is the house, and what should I expect with a 1905 build?
It was built in 1905, making it over 110 years old. Expect knob-and-tube wiring if not updated, cast iron or galvanized plumbing, and likely no wall insulation. Foundations are typically stone or brick. A thorough inspection focusing on foundation, roof, and electrical/plumbing condition is essential. Some heritage character (wood trim, high ceilings) is common in homes of this era.

3. Why is the land area smaller than average for the street?
At 2,463 sqft, this lot ranks in the bottom 18% on Magnus Avenue and bottom 9% in the neighbourhood. Many nearby homes sit on larger, wider lots common to early Winnipeg streetcar suburbs. This lot is more compact, which may limit expansion options but also means less yard maintenance.

4. What’s the neighbourhood like?
William Whyte is an older, inner-city neighbourhood with a mix of century homes, rental properties, and some vacant or boarded-up houses. It has above-average crime rates compared to Winnipeg overall, but also strong community organizations and lower home prices. Proximity to downtown, the Exchange District, and North Main is good. It’s worth researching block-level conditions and talking to neighbours.

5. Could I add living space or a second floor later?
Possibly, but with a small lot and a 1905 structure, expansion is not straightforward. Zoning rules, setback requirements, and heritage overlays (if any) apply. An architect or contractor familiar with Winnipeg’s older homes could assess feasibility. Most buyers of homes like this treat them as-is and prioritize interior upgrades over additions.