Technology has come a long way in the last few decades. Many of us can remember when landline phones attached to the wall with a cord were as high-tech as it got. Today, though, we can peek inside the fridge from the grocery store or even make sure we turned the oven off during our commute to work. Below are some of the best new smart technologies to consider during your next home improvement or fix-and-flip project.
Cameras and Security Systems
In today’s day and age, everyone wants to feel safe and secure, so why not consider installing some smart cameras or even an entire security system during your next project? It can increase the value of the property simply by making it more desirable. There are numerous options from which to choose, too. You might decide to install some of today’s affordable doorbell cams or even a set of weather-resistant security cameras in the front, back, and sides of the house. Smart security is a phenomenal choice for investors who own multifamily properties, as well.
Smart Appliances
There’s certainly no shortage of smart appliances on the market today. Some of the most coveted among homeowners and renters alike include cooktops and ovens with Wi-Fi control, which makes it easy to change the temperature or make sure that burner was turned off from anywhere. You can also choose from numerous washer/dryer pairs with a wide range of functionality, and you might even opt for a refrigerator that allows you to peek inside thanks to a Wi-Fi connected camera.
High-Tech HVAC Systems
Energy savings is important to consumers now more than ever, and there’s nothing quite like a smart programmable thermostat to do just that. By installing one, you are giving your buyers or renters the opportunity to adjust the climate to their liking ahead of time and save a great deal of money on their heating and cooling costs. If a business trip runs over, it’s easy for the buyer to simply pull up the app and adjust the thermostat settings in a matter of seconds.
Smart Lighting
From smart bulbs to app-controlled window treatments, there’s no shortage of lighting options from which to choose. In fact, there’s even Wi-Fi capable window film that allows a homeowner or renter to dim the windows and block out light with the tap of the screen. For a simpler start, consider installing several smart bulbs around the house that can be controlled by the likes of Google Assistant, Siri, or Alexa. Buyers and renters will love the fact that they can say, “Okay Google. Turn off the living room lights.” You might even opt for app-controlled blinds that open and close with the tap of a screen or a simple voice command, too.
Though your most important goal as a real estate investor should be providing clean, safe places for people to live and work, adding some of the latest smart technologies to the mix can benefit everyone. They add value and generate demand for your properties, and they make your buyers’ or tenants’ lives a little simpler – and a little more fun, too.
