Property Summary: 986 Archibald Street, Windsor Park

Key Characteristics & Buyer Profile

This property stands out primarily for its lot size and overall value relative to its street and neighbourhood. The land measures 10,458 sqft, placing it in the top 1% within Windsor Park and the top 5% citywide—a rare find, especially on a street where the average lot is just under 6,000 sqft. The house itself is a solid 1,564 sqft bungalow built in 1960, which is newer than most homes on Archibald Street but roughly average for the area. Its assessed value of $470,000 ranks first on the street and well above the neighbourhood average of $354,000, indicating a property that has either been well maintained or benefits significantly from its land.

The appeal here is straightforward: you are buying a large, private lot in a central, established neighbourhood, with a house that is livable but likely not the main draw. The interior square footage is generous for the street but not oversized by city standards, so the value is anchored in the land and the location. This property would suit a buyer who values outdoor space, gardening, or future redevelopment potential, as well as someone who wants a stable, middle-aged home in a mature neighbourhood without the premium of a newly built subdivision. It is less suited to someone looking for a move-in-ready modern interior or a compact, low-maintenance yard.

Five Possible FAQs

1. How does the assessed value compare to other homes in the area, and what does that mean for taxes?
The assessed value of $470,000 is significantly higher than the Windsor Park average of $354,000 and ranks first on the street. This means the property taxes will be above the neighbourhood norm, but taxes are based on the assessed value, not the purchase price. Budget for a higher annual tax bill than you might expect for a typical home in this area.

2. The house was built in 1960. What should I expect in terms of maintenance or updates?
Homes from this era are generally well-built but will have older mechanical systems, windows, and insulation. The fact that the house ranks in the top 5% on the street for age suggests it may be in better shape than its neighbours, but it is still over 60 years old. Expect to budget for potential updates to plumbing, electrical, and roofing within the next decade if they haven't already been done.

3. The lot is large—over 10,000 sqft. Is there any zoning or restriction that limits what I can do with the land?
You would need to check with the City of Winnipeg for specific zoning, but in Windsor Park, many large lots in this size range are zoned for single-family residential. A lot this size could potentially accommodate an addition, a garage, or even a secondary suite depending on current bylaws. It is not automatically a development opportunity, but it offers flexibility that smaller lots do not.

4. How does this property compare to others on Archibald Street specifically?
Archibald Street is mixed in terms of housing stock, with many older, smaller homes. This property ranks in the top 7% for living area, top 4% for lot size, and first for assessed value on the street. In short, it is one of the more substantial properties on this particular street, which could mean higher resale appeal but also means it stands out from its immediate neighbours.

5. Is this a good investment property or better suited for an owner-occupant?
It leans toward owner-occupant use because of the high land value relative to the house. As a rental, the return may not be as strong due to higher taxes and purchase price compared to smaller homes in the area. However, the large lot and solid square footage could appeal to a long-term buyer who wants to hold the land for future appreciation or development. For a pure investment play, smaller lots with lower entry costs in the same neighbourhood might offer better cash flow.