Houses for sale in Winnipeg: Fort Rouge

Houses for sale in Fort Rouge, Winnipeg have a community that has grown in popularity over the years for those who covet century-old homes that are literally a stone’s throw from downtown Winnipeg. Even better is that these small, quaint homes are a short walk to the major commercial spots on Churchill Drive and the really cool stores on Osborne Street, making it a trendy spot to live and play.

Fort Rouge and Riverview form the MLS® area 1A. The greater city area, considered River Heights, is arguably one of Winnipeg's hottest real estate markets. Homes for sale on Wellington Crescent proper are almost all mansions, while the street itself serves as one of several east-west thoroughfares, with others including Academy Road – known for its chic shopping, Corydon – which is studded with patios, and Grant – which is the busiest of the lot, and home to Grant Park Mall and other larger amenities. Osborne Village itself was once considered one of Canada’s coolest neighbourhoods for its boho-chic vibe (it’s also filled with nice apartments with views of the Assiniboine River). Riverview is perhaps the most-affordable area in River Heights for the moment, but the place continues to grow in price due to the excellence of South Osborne, a district that has become a culinary and live music destination.

Century homes a walk from downtown

This side of Fort Rouge is all about the character housing. Century-old homes, a lot of them compact and full of period detail, on quiet, tree-lined streets a short walk from downtown. Craftsman bungalows, older two-storeys, snug wartime houses. Some are on the small side, but the location and the character keep them wanted, and prices stay accessible for how close you are to the core.

Walkable and full of character

This is a characterful, walkable pocket for people who want to be near everything. Osborne Street and Churchill Drive put shops, restaurants and services within a short walk, and the riverbank and downtown are both close. It suits buyers who would rather have a hundred-year-old home with soul in a central spot than a bigger house further out.

Buying an older home here

The homes are old, so do the old-house homework, furnace, windows, wiring, roof, and ask what has been updated. Older wiring or plumbing can turn up, and with the river close, check the basement, sump pump and drainage. Smaller century homes can be charming but tight, so think about how the space works for you. Selling here, lean on the character, the updates and the walk-everywhere location.

What kind of homes are on this side of Fort Rouge?
Century-old character homes, often compact, Craftsman bungalows, older two-storeys and wartime houses.

How close is downtown?
A short walk. It is one of the most central, walkable pockets in the city.

Are the homes small?
Some are, so it is worth thinking about how the space suits you, but the character and location are the draw.

What should I check in an older home?
Furnace, windows, wiring and roof, any older wiring or plumbing, and a dry basement with a sump pump given the river.