How to choose between two special homes

Start by listing the requirements that prompted the search for a new home - not only about price, but also the number of bedrooms, bathrooms and living rooms you must have as well as any non-essential features like a double garage, a security system, a pool and lapa or entertainment area.

Then compare each of the prospective homes to this checklist to see how closely it matches the essentials, and which has more of the optional extras on the list.

Next, prospective buyers should make a detailed side-by-side comparison of factors such as proximity to schools, shops, recreational and medical facilities, routes to work, rates and taxes, local zoning regulations, and the condition of surrounding homes, roads, parks and even streetlights.