A survey by Better Homes and Gardens found that 64% of millennials are interested in having smart technology in their homes. Given that a recent National Association of REALTORS® study showed that millennials represent the largest share of potential homebuyers in today’s market, sellers should definitely be looking to invest in technology upgrades.
The following innovations will not only attract this coveted pool of buyers, but also increase the value and desirability of your home.
1. Smart Home Security System
You can’t go wrong with the addition of a smart security system. Monitoring activity both outside and inside your home has never been easier with systems like Ring and SimpliSafe that allow you to check-in and keep tabs through your phone.
2. Smart Thermostat
Simple and affordable, this addition should be incorporated into every home. Designed to operate at the optimal temperature, smart thermostats like Nest regulate and manage the heating and cooling in your household more efficiently.
3. Smart Digital Lighting
Cost-saving dimmer and sensor systems allow you to easily control all the lights in your home via your phone. Digital lighting with LED bulbs—which last up to 25 times longer than traditional bulbs—is also more energy-efficient, saving you money on utility bills.
4. Solar Panels
Solar panels are becoming increasingly common due to their eco-friendly nature and energy-efficient characteristics that yield significant yearly savings. You might also wnat to consider battery storage and backup.
5. Smart Smoke Detectors
Monitoring not only smoke, but also carbon dioxide and general air quality, smart smoke detectors alert your phone or tablet when anything is amiss—and won’t set off an alarm every time you decide to fry up some bacon.
6. Smart Door Locks
With smart door locks, your WiFi- and Bluetooth-enabled devices detect when you arrive or leave your home and automatically unlock or lock the doors. For added security, they also record all activity, so you’ll be alerted immediately to and activity including montoring the comings and goings of children, contractors as well as anything suspicious.
7. Automated Blinds & Shades
Motorized blinds and shades open and close at the click of a button, and can even be programmed to perform these actions at specific times of the day—like in the early morning for a sunny wake-up call or late aftrenoon to cool the house down.
8. Whole-House Built-In Speakers
Play your favorite tunes and podcasts from anywhere in your home with a built-in, app-controlled speaker system. This smart addition is not only great for day-to-day living, but it also takes entertaining to the next level.