Which Details Matter Most When Comparing Two Similar Homes: Ask a Wahi REALTOR®

Wahi Broker of Record Anne Alkok helps clients determine what’s really important when comparing two similar properties during the homebuying journey.

By Josh Sherman | 2 minute read

One’s preference in homes is totally subjective. Just look at how widely architectural styles can vary from house to house. Or a post on McMansion Hell. However, there are certain details buyers should bear in mind when on the hunt for their next home. Two homes might appear the same on paper — an identical number of bedrooms and bathrooms, comparable lot sizes and square footage, and amenities — yet provide very different living experiences. To help homebuyers parse which details matter most when comparing two apparently similar homes, we’ve rounded up three things to pay special attention to.

1. Layout

“The difference in layouts in similar homes can make the living space more or less usable depending on the arrangement,” Alkok explains. For instance, a kitchen that is located just off the family room allows parents to keep an eye on the kids while preparing a meal, whereas a kitchen separated by another room does not.

Keep layout-related details in mind when browsing homes. This is especially important for anyone shopping for condos, which are generally smaller fixed spaces where it’s much more difficult to knock out a wall or make other big changes later on.

2. Condition 

“Two homes with the same layout could be in very different condition,” says Alkok. “Homebuyers should pay attention to the condition of the roof, whether windows have been replaced recently, the age of the furnace and air conditioning, and other updates, whether it’s a full-on reno or simply a facelift,” she continues.

Tip for condo buyers: a status certificate can help you properly assess the condition of the building in which the condo is located. The document, which typically runs hundreds of pages, details the financial health of the condo corporation.

3. Location

The old adage that real estate is about location, location, location rings true if you’re wondering which details matter most when comparing two similar homes — even within the same neighbourhood.

Proximity to desired services — for example, being located walking distance to a school rather than a 10-minute drive — is a priority to consider. So are the characteristics of the particular street the home is located along. Is it a quiet side street or a main thoroughfare? Does the home back onto a park or a highway? All else equal, these differences can have a huge impact on a home’s livability.   

When comparing condos, the unit’s level and exposure (southern, northern, et cetera) also deserves attention. Living on the 40th storey of a condo tower can add 15 minutes or more to your commute, depending on the elevator situation.