A three-home comparison example
The filled example above follows one fictional household across Alder Lane, Cedar Court, and Birch Place. Alder offers more kitchen space but three entrance steps; Cedar has no steps on the route used but a tighter kitchen; Birch offers an open layout but no separate workspace. Each visit leaves questions open. The example shows how to plan a next conversation without declaring a winning home.
Start with your own priorities
Agree on a few must-haves before comparing the homes. Separate needs from preferences and allow household members to disagree. A large room is not automatically a benefit if your priority is a shorter commute or an easier entrance.
Compare like with like
Use notes from each actual visit. Record the date and any relevant limits, such as only visiting in the afternoon. Write ‘not assessed’ when you do not have comparable information. Do not interpret a missing concern as evidence that a feature is problem-free.
Keep unknowns visible
Put unverified renovation claims, unanswered questions, and documents still to review in their own row. Discuss who will obtain the information before treating it as a reason to proceed.
Use the worksheet with your agent
Bring the worksheet to a shortlist conversation. Ask which uncertainty can be resolved and which trade-off is personal. A useful outcome may be ruling out a home, arranging another visit, or deciding you need more information.