Getting Smart: How Home Technologies Are on the Rise

Buyers are increasingly interested in homes built or retrofitted with smart home features.

The smart home market is globally one of the fastest growing markets, expanding at a rate of approximately 25% per year. It is driven by increasing interest in smart devices and appliances like voice-activated audio systems, colour-changing LED lamps, video doorbells, and app-enabled thermostats. As smart technology becomes more readily available, some buyers prefer smart homes with fully integrated systems, and sellers are thinking about taking action to meet the demand. 

From novelty to normal: Smart devices for every home

A number of reasons explain the rise in popularity of smart devices over the past few years.  As average internet speed continues to improve worldwide, many homeowners now have the connectivity required to support an automated home. High-speed internet keeps a smart home functioning properly, especially when it comes to video doorbells or WiFi security cameras that require more bandwidth. 

Smart devices and appliances have also become more affordable as tech providers like Google, Amazon, and Apple mainstream their products and compete for a dominant share of the market. These tech giants have led the transition from a traditional understanding of automated homes to smart homes, which require a central hub or smartphone to monitor and control the entire system. 

Smart ecosystems like Apple HomeKit and Google Nest have made it easier to manage a smart home from one device and push consumers to choose an ecosystem and compatible devices. Voice activation has further simplified smart homes by making it possible to control devices remotely via virtual assistants like Apple’s Siri or Amazon’s Alexa. 

Different classes of smart home devices have emerged based on the type of installation. Central vacuum systems or built-in home theatres usually require professional installation while do-it-yourself devices like Philips Hue lighting and Sonos wireless speakers can be purchased and set up with relative ease. Companies like Google, Amazon, and Apple are continuously working to make smart home products simple enough to operate for even the least tech-savvy amongst us. 

Smart locks use facial recognition or fingerprints to unlock doors—a helpful feature for whenever the keys are lost or forgotten inside a locked home—and high security systems enable owners to watch their homes even while on holiday. It could therefore be a worthwhile investment for a second or holiday home, as this is less visited than the main residence. Video doorbells are another useful gadget for security, allowing homeowners to monitor porches for package deliveries and prevent theft. 

Similarly, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors keep homes safer, warning residents of any dangers via notifications on their smartphones.

Smart thermostats, vents, and air conditioners make it possible to more efficiently regulate temperature using a smartphone or mobile device. These HVAC systems are better for the environment, heating and cooling homes more precisely with less energy consumption.  

Plant sensors and automated sprinkler systems are also good for the environment, making it easier to irrigate gardens, keep lawns green, and minimise the amount of water needed to do so. 

More and more home appliances are being manufactured with smart technology to make daily life easier such as refrigerators and washing machines that can be controlled and monitored remotely to adjust settings and make sure nothing malfunctions or goes awry. 

And finally, the benefits of high-tech entertainment systems are manifold, making watching movies and listening to music more enjoyable than ever. These include built-in home theatres, TVs with streaming capability, and wireless audio systems that increase connectivity and functionality.

Newest technology for luxury smart homes 

While many smart home devices are becoming increasingly common and affordable, there are still plenty of high-end gadgets emerging on the market for anyone who desires the most cutting-edge home technology. 

Several of these futuristic devices are still in development and just starting to gain traction in the market. Luxury smart home products include advanced LED systems for changing the wall colour and personal landing pads for drone delivery services. While Amazon’s Prime Air service was expected to launch in 2019, the company is still testing the operation and safety of 30-minute drone deliveries. 

Another technology on the horizon is long-range wireless charging that uses infrared beams to charge devices from a distance. Wi-Charge, an Israeli company leading the way on long range power, has developed a product that can charge multiple products from up to 9 metres away. Soon this smart technology is sure to make tangled wires and cables a thing of the past.

Keeping up with the trend

The importance of smart homes in today’s real estate market continues to grow, and installing these devices can take a property to the next level.   

For property owners it could be worthwhile installing fully integrated smart home systems with compatible devices before selling. Buyers appreciate the convenience, security, and connectivity of those features. 

Already during the construction of new homes, it makes sense to consider the possibilities when it comes to incorporating smart home technology. Building homes with smart HVAC systems make temperature control more efficient, cost effective, and environmentally friendly. 

At the start of 2022, smart home features are no longer a thing of the future—they’re becoming increasingly common as buyers and sellers alike recognize this trend as an emerging opportunity.