Buying and selling a smart home
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Everything You Need to Know about Buying or Selling a Smart Home
A featured guest post from Kris!
Kris Louis -- Parentingwithkris.com
They say there is a learning curve to everything, and for most of us, a smart home transaction is a whole new experience that can seem especially complicated. What happens when the gadgets change hands, and will having devices installed help or hurt a sale? Haymount Homes offers some pertinent advice for buyers and sellers who are heading into the smart home market for the first time.
What devices should I install? The selection of smart devices is almost overwhelming, so contemplate what choices will make your home more comfortable for you, and what will bring substantial convenience. You can test drive smart home gadgetry with something small and simple, such as smart plugs. Anything you connect to one can be controlled by phone, allowing you to alter your home environment whether you’re near or far.
Will technology help sell my house? Automation isn’t likely to be a big player in selling a home. If the decision is narrowed to a few houses and all other features are equal, installed technology might help a buyer choose your property, but it’s unlikely to influence a sale dramatically in either direction. With that in mind, decide on devices offering you optimal personal benefit. Whatever smart devices you choose to install, note you are best off hiring a professional electrician to ensure things are wired in properly.
Here are some popular smart home selections:
Window treatments can be a boon in the summer. Being able to control drapes, blinds and other window treatments when you aren’t home means you can close your west side-facing curtains during the day, reducing heat from the afternoon sun. It’s a savings on energy use and utility bills, and on top of that, being able to close curtains remotely means you can make it look like you are home even when you aren’t.
Smart security systems will give homeowners peace of mind. There are a variety of smart security options you can choose from: video doorbells, all-in-one home security systems, motion-sensing solar outdoor lights, indoor cameras, and even alarm sensors that notify you when windows or doors have been opened. The best smart security technology allows homeowners to stream video from their phone, so they always know their home is safe no matter where they are.
Smart appliances can both boost your home’s efficiency and help you be more productive. For example, there are smart kitchen scales into which you can note what ingredients are on hand, and it will offer you recipe suggestions.
Thermostats are a big hit with homeowners, offering energy efficiency by learning habits and making changes accordingly.
Smart lighting can also be a benefit to homeowners, as smart bulbs can work in accordance with your patterns, helping you sleep better, work more efficiently, and even better manage your appetite. On top of all that, you can save money and energy.
Integrating devices. There are a couple important options to help with device integration. One option is a hub, which is designed for linking devices so they can talk to one another. However, it’s important to understand that not all gadgets will speak the same language, so you should research what will work with your selections. One suggestion for managing this concern is to purchase smart home devices from retailers that will allow you to return them if there is a problem. Good Housekeeping points out you can also use your smartphone to access IFTTT (If This, Then That). In this way, you establish protocol for your various smart devices. For instance, if movement is detected by a smart security camera while you’re at work, your smart curtains close.
Buying and selling. When it comes time to sell or purchase a property with automation installed, many people are confused about navigating the process. Notion explains sellers should delete their accounts, and reset all smart home products and devices to their factory settings. Make a list of all the gadgets and what they do so buyers know what to expect. Buyers should ensure they contact tech support regarding change of ownership immediately, and update all contact information.
Most of us are new to buying and selling smart homes. Learn about the devices available and what will work for you. With a little research, you can make informed decisions, improving your convenience and comfort. You will be able to enter the smart home real estate market with confidence!
Do you need help staging your home for sale? Or do you just want help making your living space feel more beautiful? Haymount Homes can help! We provide the tools, advice and services you need to make your home shine. Reach out to us today!