Last Updated on June 14, 2023
As a luxury seller, how do you distinguish your property from similar homes on the market?
One good tactic is to invest in smart home technology.
Better Homes and Gardens has found that 64% of Millennial home buyers value smart home technology as a primary factor when purchasing a home. Studies by REALTrends show that 59% of buyers with children and 47% of buyers without children would pay more for a home with smart technology already installed. And Houzz found that 24% of current home buyers would consider adding smart home technology features in a home renovation. Getting the picture?
There are dozens of smart devices designed to make your home at once more accessible and more secure. Here are just a few smart devices that would add value to a luxury home you’re putting on the market.
1. Smart locks and security systems
Imagine using your existing house keys, existing deadbolt, secure pin, a fob, your smartphone, or a combination of the above to open your front door. Whatever your preferences, you can find the best secure smart lock for you. There are many brands on the market, but the most recommended this season is the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock. It fits over your existing deadbolt, meaning you can still use your physical key, and it’s a breeze to install. You can use the app to assign and revoke timed virtual keys for guests or service professionals. And best of all, it’s discretely 45% smaller than older August models.
For a full suite of security system devices, try ADT Command or SimpliSafe Home Security System.
2. Smart video doorbells
You’ll never miss your Amazon Prime delivery again (or the bears that stop by!) with a smart doorbell. See, hear, and speak to whoever is at your door, even when you’re not at home. The Arlo Video Doorbell was named best overall this year. It’s easy to install, performs well, and features 180-degree HD video, night vision, two-way audio, and motion detection zones. By adding an affordable cloud storage subscription, you also have access to advanced functionality like custom animal, person, vehicle, and package alerts.
3. Smart voice-command thermostats
Sustainability and luxury lifestyles work best in combination! The most popular (and most affordable) smart thermostat this season is the Amazon Smart Thermostat. This thermostat is Energy Star certified and is easy to use with a compatible Alexa-enabled smart speaker or display. But unfortunately, it’s not compatible with Google Assistant or Apple HomeKit. For an option with voice integrations that work with all those speakers and more, try the Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium. Its compatibility makes up for its higher price tag. Cozy living is just a swipe away.
4. Smart smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Put safety first with top-of-the-line smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Adding smart technology allows you to be sure of your home’s safety even while continents away. Items like Google Nest Protect 2nd Generation are just as reliable as your traditional detectors. But this one alerts you through your Nest app before the full home alarm sounds. A combination of photoelectric and ionization sensors detect both smoldering and flaming fires and greatly reduce false alarms.
If you don’t want to invest in a new device, the Roost Wi-Fi Smart Battery plugs into the 9V slot of your existing detectors and offers the same kind of alerts. You can even invite trusted friends to receive smartphone alerts while you’re away from home.
5. Smart home hubs and controllers
Door lock, doorbells, speakers, TVs, thermostats, and more…. With all the new smart devices in your home, you’ll need a central system to control them all. Integrate all your new devices together with a system like the fourth-generation Amazon Echo speaker with Alexa. The Spruce named it their top pick for audio quality and usability at a reasonable price. In addition to accurate voice recognition and immersive sound, it’s also easy to set up and create Amazon Routines to manage and run your favorite tasks automatically. The Echo works with Amazon, Arlo, Ring, Blink, iRobot, and more.
