Smart Home Technology: Your Questions Answered

If you’ve been doing your homework in preparation for your home renovation project, you’ve likely come across a lot of information regarding smart home technology. Compared to just 10 or 20 years ago, there are tons of choices when it comes to adding smart home features within your home.  But all of this information, while helpful, can be overwhelming. Let us break it down for you here…

What is a smart home?

Simply put, a smart home is one where automated technology allows one to control features of their home . Doing this using mobile software makes it so that the homeowners don’t actually having to be present to do things like control lighting, appliances, security cameras, and temperature.

Who Uses Smart Home Technology?

A common myth is that the Millennial generation is the primary consumer of smart home technology. And while they’re certainly not shying away from it, it’s the previous generations that are taking full advantage of this technology.

After all, it can be a useful option for homeowners that migrate to southern destinations to escape the frigid Northeastern winters. Sound familiar?

One Common Mistake… 

A common mistake that “newbies” make when integrating this technology is having different apps and mechanisms for controlling each smart feature.

Ideally, it’s best to have a single module that controls everything.  This allows you to quickly evaluate each feature as needed, and ensures that they are working together. Not to mention makes it much easier to manage your smart home features.

Look for the Following…

Seek out a company that specializes in this technology and can assist you in hardwiring the needed equipment for your home.  Gauge their willingness to walk you through everything once it’s been installed in order to make sure you are completely comfortable using it.  After all, what good is it to have the technology yet not know how to use it?

Take the time to ask why they prefer certain applications or features over others, and what they personally use in their own home.  It’s a wise idea to partner with a company that will also be there to troubleshoot any problems that arise.

It is also recommended to talk to friends, family, and coworkers for recommendations. Talking to someone who has been through the process can help alleviate concerns that you may have and give you a better understanding of what to expect.

Will it Add Value to My Home?

Variables that can impact this can include the housing market, the technology being integrated, and how extensively it’s being utilized.  While there isn’t necessarily a guarantee that your home will bring in a higher dollar value, this technology can prevent your home from sitting on the market longer than it should. These days people generally appreciate ease and convenience. Both of which, a smart home system can offer them.

Have further questions about smart home technology and how to integrate it into your home? Contact us at 410-848-2605.