Our houses, like most aspects of our modern lives, are becoming increasingly technological—and increasingly smart. Smart devices for the home range from a button that restocks your laundry detergent via an Amazon order to a camera that answers your doorbell for you when you’re out.
There are even smart devices that allow you to talk to your pet—and feed it treats—from your smartphone, from anywhere. But are these devices worth the cost and hassle? And if so, which ones are the best?
Once thought to be a luxury item, the convenience of smart devices is beginning to have an effect on prices in the real estate market. As a Northern Virginia real estate agent, I’ve seen how homebuyers can select one home over another because of the perceived value of even one smart home device.
In the eyes of real estate appraisers, installing certain smart devices can increase home resale value by up to 5%—at a relatively low out-of-pocket cost to the current owner.
There are unlimited smart home devices to choose from, and the idea of technologically modernizing your home can be overwhelming. But if you are looking to sell, smart devices may be the boost you need to raise your home value. Have a look at these top four smart devices worth trying out.
Smart Doorbell (with Camera)
Even if you live in a safe neighborhood, security is necessary in today’s world—and important to potential home buyers. What price can you put on peace of mind and safety? The first (and one of the most affordable) smart home device you should invest in is a smart doorbell with a camera.
Most smart doorbells operate on motion sensors to send real-time updates when there is movement in front of your door. This high-tech security device allows you to stream video of who is standing at your door while engaging in two-way communication through your Wi-Fi network.
Never worry about missing a visitor again, since the technology connects directly to your smartphone.
This smart doorbell is particularly valuable to homebuyers who work in sales and often have deliveries to their home, or families who have teenage kids who stay home alone. We love the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 (2021), which is easy to use and pairs directly with Alexa.
Smart Thermostat
Smart thermostats are both convenient and cost-effective. When equipped with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, this voice-activated device learns your habits (such as times of day when no one is home) and adjusts the temperature of house accordingly, which saves you money on electrical, heating, and cooling bills in the long-term. Your potential future homeowners will love the idea of built-in savings, as well as how easy this feature is to operate.
High-tech, yet affordable, the Google Nest Thermostat in Sand allows you to control the temperature of every room in your house from your smartphone. We love that this product connects directly to Amazon Echo or Google Home speakers, making set-up a breeze. Its large display and remote control make this gadget user-friendly and efficient.
Smart Landscape Irrigation
Nothing ruins a vacation more than wondering if your teenage neighbor remembered to water your plants. Rest assured that with your smart sprinkler system you can water both your indoor and outdoor plants from the palm of your hand.
With these devices, you can set timers for each zone, use “smart water” technology to conserve water, and skip watering on stormy days. You can even connect your sprinkler system to your weather app so your system knows exactly when your outdoor plants might need a drink.
The Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller 8-Zone smart irrigatin controller is our favorite. The convenience of this tool saves you both time and money. It also uses special programming, local weather intelligence, and more into ensure your landscape isn’t over- or under-watered.
Smart Smoke Detector
Smoke detectors are one of the most important safety features that potential homebuyers (and inspectors, for that matter) will be looking for. Not only do smoke detectors provide security, but it’s also the law to have a functioning smoke alarm on each floor of your home. Save yourself the hassle of the low-battery beep and invest in a smart smoke detector, many of which also detect for Carbon Monoxide.
The smart smoke detector is the security system of the future; it connects to your phone to send you alarms, as well as low battery signals. Furthermore, these little gadgets are attractive and easily concealable. Rest easy, even when you aren’t home, that your house and belongings are safe. The Nest Protect Smoke + CO Detector (Battery) allows you to silence alarms from your phone and tells you exactly where in the house you might be facing danger.
Increase Appeal at Resale with These Smart Products
For just over $500, you can install a few simple—yet smart—devices that will make your property significantly more attractive to appraisers and home buyers alike.
| Product | Purchase Link | |
| Smart Doorbell with Camera | Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 (2021) | |
| Smart Thermostat | Google Nest Thermostat in Sand | |
| Smart Sprinkler Controller | Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller 8-Zone | |
| Smart Smoke Detector | Nest Protect Smoke + CO Detector (Battery) | |
From now into the future, appraisers will be looking for smart devices when they value homes. These trendy yet smart home improvements are becoming popular for good reason: they save time, money, and hassle for the homeowner. They also ensure safety for you and your family, which can be priceless.
