You want to put your home on the market and it’s already in superb condition with fresh paint, zero maintenance issues, and beautiful curb appeal. But what if you want to increase the value even more? You have a wide variety of options to raise the value of your home by as much as 5% by adding “smart” features.
The highest demand for smart accessories are smart thermostats, smoke detectors, security cameras, and smart locks.
Virtually all demographics are interested in the benefits of having a smart, home, so you can’t go wrong with these investments. Read this list to consider your options for using technology to make your property stand out and increase your property value at the same time.
Google Home, Amazon Echo, and Voice Control
The 2017 Coldwell Banker Smarthome Marketplace Survey showed that voice control is one of the highest-demanded features. Implementing Google Home or Amazon Echo will allow a wide range of automated features that are easy for you to install and pass over to the future owner. If you want to attract buyers quickly, this is the way to go. Voice commands and WiFi connectivity across multiple devices appeal to all the demographics of the housing market.
Security and Smart Locks
Safety and security are paramount for any living space, and smart features like security cameras and smart doorbells provide this easily. It’s more convenient than ever to monitor your doors and windows even while you’re away from home, with added police security in the case of an emergency. By installing smart cameras, or the doorbell, or both, you are letting buyers know that you care for their family’s well-being.
Smart Smoke Detectors
Safety investments will really pay off. Smart smoke detectors can save homeowners up to 5% on home insurance costs. These smoke detectors monitor smoke and carbon monoxide 24/7 and can alert your smartphone or tablet while you’re away from home.
The peace of mind of avoiding fire damages while in or out of the home plus saving on insurance costs makes smart smoke detectors a must-have home tool. Having a smart smoke detector installed will also minimize any concerns about past smoke damage on your property. 2 of the more popular brands, Birdi and Nest Protect, are in the $99 to $120 dollar range.
Smart Lighting
After addressing safety and security needs look into technologies that will save on energy costs. Installing smart lighting, combined with LED bulbs, can give the rooms in your house automated mood-based lighting, increase safety with motion-sensing activation, and save up to 75% on light bill costs. This is a simple and environmentally aware way to attract buyers and help them save more on long-term expenses.
Smart Thermostats
Smart thermostats can save between 10-12% on energy costs as well, and offer the convenience of having your home set at the ideal temperature before you arrive but without having to keep the heater or A/C running all day. The extra energy cost savings will pay for the average price of a smart thermostat in less than two years.
Smart Sprinkler Systems
Smart sprinkler systems can make lawn maintenance a breeze as well. Many of them provide weather-responsive automation that reduces water output on cold or rainy days and increases it during heat waves. Some of these systems offer water-saving settings to ensure you can increase efficiency and save on expenditure costs over time.
Saving time and saving money make smart sprinkling systems a great addition to any home while also showing consideration for the environment. Eco-friendly features will increase in importance over time, especially for the Millennial market. Average savings on water costs for smart sprinkler systems are approximately 30% and some users save over 50%.
Smart Moisture Sensors
Water and mold damage can be one of the biggest burdens for homeowners. Avoid these risks with a smart moisture sensor. You can find leaks or indoor humidity changes immediately and prevent any major problems that can cost a lot of time and money to repair. The easier it is for your potential buyers to maintain the property and solve problems quickly, the more interested they will be in buying it.
Smart Solar Management
If you’re feeling ambitious, look into the recent developments in solar energy. While they aren’t considered “smart” products alone, you can add a smart junction box that gives you performance monitoring and the ability to switch off individual panels or all of them if there is an emergency.
The installation costs may be high, but they can save up to $1,500 per year on energy costs and increase your home’s value by up to $15,000. You may also qualify for federal tax credit programs that can reduce costs by approximately 30%.
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