The single-property trap
When you're serious about a property, it's tempting to go deep on just that one. You research the permit history, check the zoning, look up nearby projects. You become an expert on that specific address.
The problem? Without context, it's hard to know what you're looking at.
Is 12 permits within the report's search radius (800m in Vancouver) a lot? Is this zoning typical for the area? Are there more city projects here than elsewhere?
You can only answer these questions by comparing.
The power of comparison
When you analyze 3 properties side by side, everything changes:
Relative understanding
Suddenly, "12 permits" has meaning. One property has 5, another has 12, the third has 28. Now you can see where each one sits on the spectrum.
Pattern recognition
Comparing multiple properties helps you spot patterns. Maybe all three are in high-activity permit zones—that tells you something about the market you're shopping in. Or maybe one stands out as unusually quiet.
Informed trade-offs
Real estate decisions involve trade-offs. One property might have a different zoning context but higher nearby project activity. Another might be in a quieter area but further from transit. Comparison lets you weigh these factors with real data.
Decision confidence
People who compare multiple choices report more confidence in their final choice. It's not just about finding the "best" property—it's about understanding why you're choosing it.
The shortlist approach
Most buyers naturally develop a shortlist of 2-5 properties they're seriously considering. This is the perfect moment for comparison:
- You've already done initial filtering (location, price, size)
- The remaining properties are all viable choices
- You need a tiebreaker or deeper understanding
This is exactly where comparative evidence adds the most value.
What to compare
Effective property comparison looks at:
- Permit activity levels: How much development is happening nearby?
- Zoning classifications: Which zoning labels apply and where to verify details
- City project proximity: Are there construction projects to consider?
- Heritage status: Are there any heritage flags?
A side-by-side view makes these factors easy to weigh.
The Vancouver Compare-3 bundle
This is why we created the Vancouver Compare-3 bundle. Instead of three separate reports, you get a unified package with:
- Full evidence dossier for each property
- Side-by-side comparison grid
- Activity level comparisons
- Key differentiators highlighted
It's designed for the shortlist phase—when you're past browsing and ready to decide.
Making the choice yours
We compile evidence. We don't tell you which property to choose. The comparison grid shows you the facts; the decision is entirely yours.
Some buyers prioritize low permit activity. Others want to be near new development. Some are fine with nearby construction if it means future transit access. There's no right answer—just the answer that's right for you.
Ready to compare your shortlist? Start a Vancouver Compare-3 order and see the evidence side by side.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice.