Smart Home Features Buyers Will Want in 2019

Coldwell Banker recently published its Smart Home Survey for 2019. Here are some of the findings:

1. Smart Locks
   1. Consumers can now add connectivity to conventional deadlocks at any door.
   2. Consumers can remotely control/monitor those locks at and/or away from home.
   3. Some smart locks can sense when the homeowner comes/leaves the home and locks/unlocks accordingly.
2. Energy Efficient Tech
   1. Energy certified appliances
   2. Energy certified and approved windows/doors/skylights
   3. (Also remember to insulate the house, especially in the attic.)
3. Charging Stations
   1. Stations and wall outlets with USB connections solve the “cord” problem.
   2. Now available in countertops, drawers, shelves, etc.
4. Integrated Electronics
   1. Can install setups that enable TVs and sound systems to be hidden into walls and ceilings
5. Smart Thermostats
   1. Can schedule temperature changes that can be controlled through your smart phone.
   2. Some systems “learn” your habits and adjust temperatures accordingly.
6. Outdoor Lighting and Ceiling Fans
   1. Both are valuable for security, safety, adding curb appeal and highlighting landscaping.
   2. The National Association of Home Builders found that all demographics and all ages like/want outdoor lighting and ceiling fans.
7. Smart Doorbells
   1. Some have motion detector capabilities
   2. Some have integrated video cameras
   3. Some have two-way audio systems
8. Solar panels
   1. In New Jersey, solar panels save $19,655 over 20 years, according to Energy Sage.
   2. In California, the savings are $29,424, according to Energy Sage.

Forbes Magazine expects the smart home features market to grow to $155B by 2023. Fortune also found that 72% of Millennials are willing to pay $1,500 more for smart home features and that 42% are willing to pay $3,000 more for smart home features.