5 Kinds of Smart Technology Your Home Needs

Northeastern Ohio Podcast with Michael Kaim

Smart home features can save you money on bills, ensure the security of your home, and make life easier for you. Here are five examples of smart tech that are popular today.

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Smart technology is becoming increasingly popular in the market. These high-tech items can attract buyers, boost your home’s value, and just make your home more convenient for you and your family. Today I’ll share five examples of smart home features you might consider installing in your own home.
1. Smart thermostats ($180 to $250). This is one of the most popular smart home features that people in the market are installing in their homes. When you leave the house, your smart thermostat will automatically adjust your temperature to your specifications, allowing you to be energy efficient in your practices and to keep your bill down. Popular brands of smart thermostats include Ecobee, Nest, and Honeywell. The cost is worth it, though; this technology can save you as much as $250 annually on your energy bill.
2. Smart door locks ($200 to $250). When you leave your house, a smart lock can automatically lock the door behind you, which can keep you from worrying about whether or not your house is secure. What’s more, if you have friends, family, or service workers coming to your house when you’re not there, you can unlock the door remotely for them from your phone. We personally recommend the August Smart Lock brand.

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Smart thermostats can save you as much as $250 annually on your energy bill.

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3. Video doorbells ($199). With these, you can see whoever walks up to your door from your phone, wherever you are. Certain brands will alert you when someone even approaches your door; some have microphones that allow you to talk with whoever is there. It’s perfect for home security and general convenience. Ring is the most popular brand that we’d recommend.
4. Smart smoke detectors (Varies). A smart smoke detector can save you 5% on your insurance premium; like other smart technology, you can access it remotely so you’ll have an idea of what’s going on in your home when you’re not there. We recommend that you use either Birdi or Nest, which also have carbon monoxide detectors built in as well.

5. Smart irrigation ($200). The Sky Drop smart irrigation system can track the local weather and water your yard or garden depending on the conditions. It will also track how much rain accumulates and adjusts the water use accordingly.
Depending on your lifestyle, any or all of these additions can add a lot to your home experience, and add value and appeal to it when it comes time to sell.
If you have any questions about smart home features or about real estate in general, reach out to us. We’d be glad to help you.