Space and function abound in the open-concept kitchen and dining area.
The lower level contains a big rec room, a bathroom, and laundry and storage areas.
An abundance of space makes the huge living room a versatile space.
A wall between the dining room and kitchen was removed to unite the areas.
These days, finding a move-in-ready starter home is easier said than done.
Whereas first-time buyers may have had a budget of up to $400,000 three years ago, that’s no longer the case.
Like it or not, today’s higher interest rates – combined with the federal government’s mandatory stress test, have taken many home buying budgets down to the $300,000 to $350,000 mark.
Couple that with the fact that many of the homes in that price range require a lot of repairs or updates to make them a viable option, and first-time buyers are truly up against it in their quest to find a move-in-ready starter home.
Kyle Marriott of RE/MAX One Group says he has a listing at 120 Gemini Avenue in North Kildonan that genuinely qualifies as a solid, move-in-ready starter home.
“Of course, everyone would like to live in River Heights or Crescentwood, but the homes there can be out of people’s price range,” he says. “Looking a little further afield at homes in areas like North Kildonan can help you find some really good value in a starter home.”
The first impression of the 1,076 square-foot, three-level split is a good one — a heartening sign when you’re making your initial assessment of the home.
“The exterior has recently been done with vinyl siding,” says Marriott. “As well, the roof was recently redone, and the soffit and fascia were also replaced. That gives you two less things to worry about in terms of potential maintenance issues.”
That good vibe continues inside.
Entry comes courtesy of a roomy foyer with a nook for a bench to sit down and take your shoes off. There’s also a double closet with new doors, and the laminate flooring is in good shape.
A wide doorway to the foyer’s left then leads into a classic L-shaped living room/dining room.
“The floor plan is quite open-concept and offers plenty of natural light that comes in from a large bay window on the living room’s rear wall, another bay window behind the dining area, and a big window over the kitchen sink,” he says, noting all windows have been updated. “The living room is a good size, and a wide entryway allows it to connect nicely with the dining area.”
Then comes a pleasant surprise: the dining area opens directly onto the kitchen.
“The wall between the dining area and kitchen was removed, creating a contemporary floor plan that offers great flow between the living room, dining room and kitchen. If you enjoy entertaining, it will work perfectly for you.”
Meanwhile, the kitchen is very functional, offering plenty of room to create along with lots of cabinets and ample counter space.
“The back door also leads out to a large, fenced yard and a double detached garage,” adds Marriott. “It’s a very functional area.
Because the home is a three-level split, the bedroom wing is only a few steps up from the main floor.
“It offers three good-sized bedrooms plus a partially updated main bathroom. The primary bedroom is quite spacious, and comes with a newer window, his/her closets and a pocket door that connects it to the main bathroom.”
Another brief staircase then takes you down to the home’s lower level.
“Families will love it,” he says. “Two large windows on its front wall let in lots of natural light, and there’s a media area with additional space for a home office area. There’s also a half bath, laundry area and a large storage area under the stairs.”
Marriott says the home’s location is ideal for a young family.
“You’re walking distance to Donwood Elementary and Chief Peguis Middle School, and you’re also close to transit, shopping and Kildonan Park. It’s a very convenient location.”
Families searching for an affordable starter home should strongly consider 120 Gemini, he says.
“It’s a solid home that also comes with upgrades like a high-efficient furnace and newer front walkway. Aside from possibly replacing the shingles on the garage’s roof, there’s really nothing to do. It’s as close to move-in-ready as any starter home could be.”
lewys@mymts.net
Details
Location: 120 Gemini Ave., North Kildonan
Year Built: 1971
Style: three-level split
Size: 1,076 sq. ft.
Bedrooms: three
Bathrooms: 1.5
Price: $325,000
Contact: Kyle Marriott, RE/MAX One Group, 204-9986485 or Sean Kirady, RE/MAX One Group, 204-997-1065
