Smart homes sometimes feel like something out of a sci-fi movie, but they’re the latest technology available today. In fact, you don’t need a newly built property to transform your space into a smart home. By using a few key devices, many of which are affordable, you can make your home a more efficient, tech-focused space.
Aside from making your life simpler, smart home devices actually make your home easier to sell. It’s true that people today are looking for tech-savvy homes to call their own. When you install and configure these devices, you’re taking the hard work out of the equation. In this guide, we’ll explain why you should consider installing smart features in your home as well as list the top devices on the market today.
Why should you install smart features before selling your home?
While you might think smart homes are limited to the luxury market, this simply isn’t true. There are smart home devices for all price ranges and lifestyles. While you might not be able to completely overhaul your home’s existing systems, you can make some big changes where it matters.
According to Angel Piontek, a real-estate agent from Virginia with experience in smart homes, even if your home doesn’t rise in monetary value, you’re still likely to land a faster sale. Why’s this? Simply put, smart devices help your home stand out. They’re a fun bonus people would like to have, but probably won’t install themselves.
Piontek also recommends choosing devices that most people are already familiar with. Things that are easy to recognize will be much easier to sell to the average buyers, and you won’t have to do as much explaining.
What are the top smart features homebuyers look for?
As we said before, you have to be smart when choosing the right devices for your home. They need to be easy to use, recognizable, and reliable. There will always be a discussion of data-privacy, so the more familiar these devices are, the less likely this will be a concern.
The good news is your money will go a long way here. A small $1000 investment could yield big results. Here are the best smart home features that sell your home fast.
Wireless Security System – In the past, security systems needed to rely on a connection to the phone line or broadband system. This made it possible for criminals to simply “cut the line” to turn off the system. Today, there are many wireless, smartphone-enabled security systems that not only let you monitor your home when you’re away but also have the peace of mind of knowing you’re always connected.
Popular brands: SimpliSafe and Vivint Smart Home
Security Doorbell – Similar to the wireless security system is the security doorbell. Not everyone wants the hassle of a full-blown security system, but they still want privacy. With a security doorbell, your doorbell becomes a smart device that shares real-time footage with your smartphone. This way, you always know who’s coming to your door, and you can keep an eye on the front of your property.
Popular brands: Ring and Google Nest Doorbell
Smart Thermostat – If you’ve ever left the home only to realize you left the heater or A/C on, you know how annoying this can be. Today, it’s important to pay attention to how you use energy in your home. With a smart thermostat, it’s easy to control your home temperature on the go, and it can even adjust the temperature to your habits. Talk about convenience!
Smart Lights – Another smart option is to install smart lights. This is the most inexpensive way to make your home smarter. You can find smart lights for as little as $15, and they’re easy to connect to your smart devices like your Amazon Alexa, Google Home, or even just your smartphone.
Popular brands: Samsung and Philips Hue
Smart Home Hub – Finally, if you plan to have a variety of devices, it’s best to connect them all with a hub. A central system can control all of your devices in one place, making life a little bit easier.
Popular brands: Samsung Smartthings
How smart is your home?
If you’re planning to sell your home in the near future, an easy upgrade is to install these smart home features above. They’re more affordable than you think, and they can result in your home selling faster.
Who doesn’t want to feel like they’re in a home from the future? The good news is that the future is officially here, so why not enjoy the best of it?