The concept of the ‘smart home’ is one that’s been around for a while but it’s only now, in our technologically advanced age, that we actually have the ability to put once fanciful visions into action. With advancements in artificial intelligence (we’re looking at you, Alexa!), internet connectivity, and automation, smart homes are no longer a futuristic concept, but a present-day reality. In fact, the smart home is such a big part of the way that we now live, that incorporating suitable technology in the properties you wish to sell and rent may be the thing to give you a competitive edge.
The smart home through time
The evolution of the smart home began with the first remote control, designed by Nikola Tesla in 1898. Though it would be a while until it became a household item, this early demonstration sparked widespread interest in how this type of technology could be used. It would be roughly 30 years before they began to be used for simple actions, such as opening and shutting garage doors, and 50 years before their use alongside televisions became commonplace.
Of course, many ideas would prove to be ahead of their time, only to be realised in our modern day. In 1966 Jim Sutherland’s Echo IV was the first integrated home system, able to control home temperature, turn appliances on and off and more. However, its cost was prohibitive, and it wouldn’t be until 2014 that we would finally have the Amazon Echo, a virtual assistant and miniature home speaker able to do everything the Echo IV could do – and more – at an affordable price for the everyday consumer.
But the constraints of the time were no limit to creativity. In a 1939 edition of Popular Mechanics Magazine, author of the article “The Electric House of the Future”, George H. Bucher, wrote of a house with automatic doors, lighting that changed to the needs of the occupants and the ability to greet guests remotely via intercom. All things that are now possible in our modern times.
But what actually is a smart home?
A smart home is a property equipped with electronic devices that can be controlled remotely by a smartphone or a computer. These electronic devices can be anything electronic in the home, including lighting and heating. This can obviously offer unparalleled convenience, efficiency, and security to homeowners. There are more demands on our time than ever before, which is why homebuyers will want to prioritize convenience. It’s also why it may benefit sellers and prospective landlords to incorporate smart technology in their own property portfolio, as properties with integrated smart features can help you to stand out from the crowd.
The smart home today
Now not only do we have virtual assistants such as Alexa or Siri, but we also have the ability to control the lighting and temperature of our homes through apps on our phones. We can monitor our energy usage through smart meters, check the security of our homes remotely through surveillance cameras, and screen people who come to our front door through intelligent doorbell systems.
There are other, less integrated ways in which our homes are now smarter than ever, too. For example, by the click of a remote you can change things on a television screen, or cast what is on your phone screen onto it. Robot hoovers can both vacuum and mop your home, with only simple maintenance needed for their upkeep. Air conditioning units can be set to work only when a certain temperature is exceeded. Electric locking can be added to the doors in your home to add an extra layer of security, and garage doors and garden gates can be set to automatically open on your approach. Smart pet feeders can release food at certain intervals and coffee makers, dishwashers and washing machines can all be set to run at set times of the day.
The advantages of smart homes
Aside from saving homeowners time, one of the key advantages of smart home technology is its potential to increase property value. Homes equipped with smart devices such as smart thermostats, lighting systems, and security cameras command higher prices in the market due to their added functionality and energy efficiency. According to the Smart Home Buyers Index 2024, a survey carried out by Samsung, the following was found to be true:
- 79% of those looking to rent or buy in the next five years want a smart home
- This same group of people are willing to pay a 7.7% premium on the average UK house price for a smart home
- Though 48% of Gen Z want a smart home, the number of over 65s looking for a smart home is on the increase
- Energy efficiency and improved security via technology were some of the most desired benefits of a smart home
In addition to the personal benefits of a smart home, they are also much more sustainable, with energy efficiency usually a big part of their design. As awareness regarding the use of resources becomes more widespread it’s no surprise that prospective homeowners want to make sure their future home is set up to cause as minimal an impact to the environment as possible. Eco-friendly features align with broader environmental conservation efforts, whilst also working to keep energy costs down and benefit homeowners financially.
For landlords and sellers the integration of smart home technology into your property helps to streamline the process of selling and letting, as estate agents can use these features to make your property stand out to prospective buyers and tenants.
Varcity Living smart homes
Through our sister company VL Projects we have already begun to integrate smart home features in our own properties, ensuring that Varcity homes are truly pioneers in the Bangor property market. Take a look at our project page for the property Henllys, which covers the smart home technology that we implemented to make the property truly cutting edge. Installing eco-friendly and efficient property solutions is an important aspect of the work we do, as it not only ensures cheaper energy bills and better efficiency of the property, but is also more positive for the planet. This rise of smart homes represents a shift in the real estate industry, where technology intersects with traditional housing practices to create modern living spaces. From increased property values to enhanced tenant/homeowner experiences and sustainable living benefits, the impact of smart home tech is undeniable.
If you’re a landlord or looking to sell your property and wish to gain an edge in the market, then smart home technology may be the solution you’re looking for. To implement it in your own Bangor property simply get in touch today with a member of our team to discuss the ways in which your property could be improved and when. To get in touch email us at info@varcityliving.co.uk or give us a call on 01248 719 254.
