Smart Home Upgrades That Make Your Home More Sellable

In today’s competitive real estate market, buyers are looking for more than just great curb appeal and modern finishes—they want smart home technology that enhances convenience, security, and energy efficiency. Investing in smart home upgrades can make your property stand out, appeal to tech-savvy buyers, and even increase your home’s value.

A 2024 Zillow report indicates that 63% of buyers consider smart home capabilities highly important, marking a 29-percentage-point increase since 2019. Additionally, homes equipped with integrated smart technologies tend to have higher resale values compared to those without, according to industry data.

If you're considering selling your home, here are the best smart home upgrades that can make it more attractive to potential buyers.

1. Smart Thermostats: Efficiency Meets Comfort

A smart thermostat, like the Nest Learning Thermostat or Ecobee Smart Thermostat, allows homeowners to control their heating and cooling remotely. These devices optimize energy usage by learning habits and adjusting temperatures accordingly, which can lower utility bills and improve energy efficiency.

📈 Why It Helps Sell Your Home: Buyers love the idea of cost savings and sustainability. Smart thermostats can reduce energy bills by up to 10-12% on heating and 15% on cooling, making them a desirable feature for cost-conscious homeowners.

2. Smart Security Systems: Peace of Mind for Buyers

Smart security systems, including video doorbells like Ring and Google Nest Hello, as well as complete home security systems like SimpliSafe and ADT Smart Home, provide enhanced safety features. These systems allow homeowners to monitor their property in real-time, receive motion alerts, and even communicate with visitors remotely.

📈 Why It Helps Sell Your Home: Security is a top priority for buyers, and homes with built-in smart security systems offer an extra layer of reassurance. The smart safety and security segment experienced a 151% growth from 2019 to 2023, highlighting its increasing demand among homebuyers.

3. Smart Lighting: Convenience and Energy Savings

Installing smart lighting systems such as Philips Hue or LIFX allows homeowners to control lighting from their smartphones or voice assistants like Alexa and Google Home. These lights can be scheduled, dimmed, or color-adjusted to set the perfect ambiance for any occasion.

📈 Why It Helps Sell Your Home: Buyers appreciate the convenience and energy efficiency of smart lighting, especially when showcased during showings. Studies show that smart lighting can reduce energy usage by up to 50%, making it a compelling feature for eco-conscious buyers.

4. Smart Locks: Keyless Entry for Added Security

Gone are the days of fumbling for keys—smart locks like August Smart Lock, Schlage Encode, and Yale Assure provide keyless entry options that can be controlled remotely. These locks enhance home security and allow homeowners to grant temporary access to guests or service providers.

📈 Why It Helps Sell Your Home: Smart locks provide both security and convenience, which are highly attractive features for modern homebuyers. According to surveys, 43% of homebuyers are willing to pay more for a home equipped with smart security features.

5. Smart Home Hubs: Seamless Integration

A smart home hub like Amazon Echo, Google Nest Hub, or Apple HomePod connects various smart devices, allowing homeowners to control everything from lighting to security through a single interface or voice commands.

📈 Why It Helps Sell Your Home: A centralized smart home system demonstrates the home’s tech capabilities, making it more appealing to buyers who want a connected living experience. Over 70% of smart home users say they prefer homes where multiple devices are integrated into a single system.

6. Smart Garage Doors: Remote Access for Added Convenience

Smart garage door openers, such as Chamberlain MyQ or Genie Aladdin Connect, allow homeowners to open and close their garage doors remotely via an app. They can also provide notifications when the door is left open.

📈 Why It Helps Sell Your Home: This feature adds security and convenience, making buyers feel they are investing in a well-equipped modern home.

7. Smart Sprinkler Systems: Water Efficiency at Its Best

A smart irrigation system like Rachio or Orbit B-hyve automatically adjusts watering schedules based on weather conditions, preventing overwatering and reducing utility bills.

📈 Why It Helps Sell Your Home: Buyers appreciate low-maintenance landscaping and cost-saving smart features, making this an attractive addition. Smart sprinkler systems can save homeowners up to 50% on outdoor water usage.

8. Smart Appliances: The Future of Home Convenience

While not essential, smart refrigerators, ovens, washers, and dryers add a luxury touch. Brands like Samsung SmartThings and LG ThinQ offer appliances that can be controlled remotely for added convenience.

📈 Why It Helps Sell Your Home: Smart appliances can make a home feel high-end and ready for the future, appealing to buyers who value cutting-edge technology. Listings mentioning smart appliances sell 22% faster on average than those without.

Maximizing Your Home’s Market Appeal with Smart Upgrades

How to Showcase Smart Home Features to Buyers

• Highlight smart upgrades in your listing description.

• Demonstrate smart features during open houses.

• Provide manuals or information on how buyers can easily take over smart systems.

Final Thoughts

Smart home technology is no longer just a luxury—it’s becoming a key selling point for modern buyers. By investing in these high-value smart home upgrades, you can differentiate your property from others on the market, attract more interest, and potentially sell your home faster and for a higher price.

Thinking of upgrading your home before selling? Start with these smart home features to impress buyers and boost your home’s value!