Your 2021 Guide to a Smarter Home

As 2021 breaches the horizon and people remain nestled in their homes, many are looking toward the future. In addition to much-anticipated family gatherings and celebrations, many homeowners are asking our REALTORS® about smart home features they can install to make modern living just a little more comfortable. It's likely you already have a few smart devices in your home for listening to the radio, answering the door, or turning the lights on and off. However, adding more requires planning and preparation so that you can fully enjoy the benefits smart technology has to offer.

• Consider Features & Research Your Options
  Most homeowners start off with a simple Google or Amazon device that makes it possible to control the radio, organize shopping lists, make calls, and do other simple tasks. But, there is so much more than smart devices can do. Controlling the thermostat, monitoring home security, raising/lowering the blinds, and more are all possible. Thus, the first step you want to do is to research the available technologies and identify the ones that offer the functionality you desire. As you do your research, you will familiarize yourself with the available possibilities and the costs associated with the devices you want to purchase and install. Finally, it would be best if you also read reviews of both users and industry professionals. This will give you a better idea of which systems deliver on their advertised promises and each system's potential strengths and weaknesses.
  
  Some of the most popular smart home devices and features of 2020 included:

• • Smart Thermostats
  • Smart Door Locks & Doorbells
  • Smart Lighting
  • Smart Security Systems & Cameras
  • Smart Outlets
  • Smart Vacuum Cleaners
  • Smart Garage Door Openers
  • Smart Refrigerators
  • Smart Irrigation Systems
  • Smart Blinds/Shades
    
    
• Factor in Compatability
  You want a homogenous smart home environment, and it is strongly advised to select devices that are compatible with one another. This makes integration easier, and it makes it easier to use all the available features. Ultimately, you want to pick devices from reliable, stable manufacturers. This helps ensure that the products you purchase today will be compatible with future products from the same manufacturer.
  
  
• Set a Budget, and Remember a Smart Home is an Investment
  Purchasing smart home devices is an investment in both comfort and home value. Hardwiring your home to accept the latest smart home technology can give you an advantage when it comes time to sell. Until then, the money you spend on your smart home devices and technology will generate returns in comfort and convenience. You also don't have to purchase everything at once. If you narrow down your options to the manufacturer that produces the products you want, you can build your system over time, thus spreading out your investment over time. 
   
• Hire a Professional to Install Your Smart Systems
  Some systems are ready right out of the box, while others may require some programming and adjustments. As with plumbing systems, electrical systems, HVAC, etc., don't hesitate to hire a professional to ensure the installation is flawless. A professional installer will also help you navigate your system and show you how to program the features to maximize convenience and comfort.

We encourage you to contact us for more information about the smart home systems we see in many Mansfield homes for sale. We would love to share how smart home technology can improve your comfort and boost your home's resale value.