Zimmerman Group Chicago Area Real Estate Team
  • ABOUT US
    • Meet the Team
    • Testimonials
    • Local Events
  • BLOG
    • ALL BLOGS
    • FIRST TIME HOMEBUYERS GUIDE
  • RESOURCES
    • BUYERS
    • SELLERS
    • Buying and Selling in Riverside
    • Buying and Selling in the North Shore
    • Buying and Selling in Austin, Texas
  • PROPERTIES
    • FOR SALE PROPERTIES
    • RENTAL PROPERTIES
Menu
  • ABOUT US
    • Meet the Team
    • Testimonials
    • Local Events
  • BLOG
    • ALL BLOGS
    • FIRST TIME HOMEBUYERS GUIDE
  • RESOURCES
    • BUYERS
    • SELLERS
    • Buying and Selling in Riverside
    • Buying and Selling in the North Shore
    • Buying and Selling in Austin, Texas
  • PROPERTIES
    • FOR SALE PROPERTIES
    • RENTAL PROPERTIES
home improvement,Homebuyers,Homeownership,smart homes,technology,Trends
/
September 27, 2021

Best Smart Home Upgrades

The Zimmerman Group

From robot vacuums to fully integrated smart home hubs your home can be as smart as you want it to be. Each year, the list of smart home upgrades grows as does the percentage of homeowners integrating these devices into their houses. 

 

According to MediaPost, in 2021, 69% of households in the U.S. have at least one smart device. But upgrading all of your home’s systems and appliances to “smarter” versions can be costly.

 

“I’ve seen plenty of homeowners go over the top with smart home upgrades,” says Joe Zimmerman of the Zimmerman Group. “While a few wisely selected upgrades will boost your home’s appeal to potential buyers, a home that has smart features at every turn can be a turn-off.

 

Homebuyers want added convenience, they want to save time and money,” he continues, “and the thought of learning how to control and maintain an overly smart home can be overwhelming.”

 

Go slow when choosing smart home upgrades. The best options are the ones that make life easier and save you money. 

 

1. Video Door Bells

 

Video doorbells are relatively inexpensive and simple to install. They also offer added security and, in some cases, they can even save you money. 

 

American Family Insurance and the Ring Video Doorbell company offered to reimburse policyholders’ deductibles if their home with a Ring Doorbell was burglarized.

 

Look for video doorbells that feature wi-fi connectivity, hi-definition recording, motion detection, two-way communication, and night-vision.  

 

2. Smart Locks

 

It's hard to beat a smart lock when it comes to convenience. Gone are the days of spare keys hidden under rocks in the garden and the sinking feeling you forgot to lock the doors. 

 

Smart locks offer keyless entry to your home through a built-in keypad or wi-fi connect app. You can also receive alerts when the door is unlocked or connect it to other smart devices, like your lights.

 

Look for smart locks with long battery life, auto-lock and unlock features, a good weather-proof rating, and a grade one or two ANSI lock quality rating. 

 

3. Smart Thermostats

 

Smart heating and cooling systems can save users up to 50% of their energy consumption according to the article An In-Depth View into Smart Home Statistics. 

 

“In my experience, smart thermostats are the most asked for smart home upgrade,” says Megan Ryan of the Zimmerman Group. “Buyers see them as a simple way to save money and sellers know it’s an easy and fairly inexpensive upgrade.” 

 

The Google Nest Learning Smart Thermostat learns your temperature preferences so you don’t have to worry about programming it yourself. You can also monitor your energy usage and history through the app. This is one of the top smart home features buyers are looking for, According to a survey conducted by Realtor.com.

 

Look for smart thermostats with wi-fi capabilities, automatic software updates, alerts, and room sensors. 

 

4. Wi-Fi Enabled Garage Door Openers

 

A study conducted by metropolitan police has shown that nearly 50% of all residential burglaries could be traced to an open garage. Not to mention, an open garage door is an invitation for animal infestation and weather damage. 

 

Wi-fi enabled garage door openers allow you to check on the status of your garage door even when you’re not home. You can also set a timer so your door closes automatically at the same time each evening. 

 

As a bonus, many wi-fi-enabled garage door openers are belt-driven making them whisper-quiet when compared to their traditional chain-driven counterparts. 

 

Look for models with real-time alert notifications, scheduling capabilities, ample horsepower, and a belt-driven opening system. 

 

5. Outdoor Smart Lights

 

While there are plenty of smart security lighting options available, we’re recommending investing in smart ambient lighting. A beautifully landscaped yard equals extra living space in the eyes of potential buyers. A few well-placed smart lights can really wow visitors. 

 

All-in-one kits like Philips Hue White and Color Ambiance Lily Outdoor Spot Light Kit come with everything you need to take your backyard game to the next level. 

 

Look for low-voltage options which plug into any outdoor outlet for easy fuss-free installation. 

 

Your home doesn’t have to be decked out with technology to make an impact on the way you live or on potential buyers. Just a few smart home upgrades can make all the difference. 

 

From smart home upgrades to energy-efficient add-ons we’ve got homes to meet your every need. 

Contact us today to start your home search.

 

SHARE

Share on facebook
Share on twitter
Share on linkedin

Similar Blogs

home underinsured

Is Your Home Underinsured?

The Zimmerman Group August 2, 2022

Sure you have homeowner’s insurance, but do you have enough? Inflation, rising construction costs, and home improvements may leave you underinsured.    Standard Homeowners Insurance:

Outdoor kitchen

5 Tips for Creating an Outdoor Kitchen

The Zimmerman Group July 5, 2022

Creating an outdoor kitchen is a great way to utilize your home’s yard and expand your living space. On average, creating an outdoor kitchen will

tax breaks for Illinois homeowners

Tax Breaks for Illinois Homeowners

The Zimmerman Group June 9, 2022

Feel like you’re paying way too much in property taxes? If you’re an Illinois homeowner, you probably are. The Land of Lincoln has the second-highest

moving to austin

Who Is Moving to Austin?

The Zimmerman Group May 17, 2022

In 2020, Austin boasted 168 net new residents per day. Even now, in 2022, Austin still ranks as the second fastest growing city (second to

good debt vs. bad debt

How Can Good Debt Help Your Financial Future?

The Zimmerman Group May 17, 2022

Debt. This little word often gets a bad rep. But what if I told you not all debt is bad? In fact, good debt can

Austin Summer Bucket List

Austin Summer Bucket List

The Zimmerman Group May 3, 2022

Looking for something fun to do in Austin this summer?  With outdoor adventures, tasty bites, and unique music venues, the only problem you’ll have when

kitchen remodel

Get Rid of These Kitchen Features Before You Sell

The Zimmerman Group May 3, 2022

Kitchens sell homes. Even a minor kitchen remodel can increase the value of your home. In fact, you can expect to see an average return

Buy or Sell Real Estate During a Divorce

Can I Buy or Sell Real Estate During My Divorce?

The Zimmerman Group April 8, 2022

Buying or selling real estate during a divorce can be a complicated endeavor. In the best of times, selling a home with a partner can

Hidden Costs of Buying a Home

Hidden Costs of Buying a Home

The Zimmerman Group April 8, 2022

The true cost of buying a home involves more than just the home’s list price. There are a variety of hidden costs of buying a

« Previous Next »

ADDRESS

  • 2211 N Elston Suite 104
  • Chicago, IL 60614
  • United States

TELEPHONE

(312) 600-6102
Keller Williams Realty Austin

ADDRESS

  • 1251-8 Research Blvd Suite 100
  • Austin, TX 78759
  • United States

TELEPHONE

(512) 346-3550

QUICK LINKS

  • BLOG
  • HOME BUYING AND SELLING RESOURCES
  • PROPERTIES
Menu
  • BLOG
  • HOME BUYING AND SELLING RESOURCES
  • PROPERTIES

ASK US ANYTHING

Facebook-f Instagram Linkedin-in

2021 © Zimmermangroup. All Rights Reserved. Website Design by Square 1 Group

SIGN UP
  • ABOUT US
    • Meet the Team
    • Testimonials
    • Local Events
  • BLOG
    • ALL BLOGS
    • FIRST TIME HOMEBUYERS GUIDE
  • RESOURCES
    • BUYERS
    • SELLERS
    • Buying and Selling in Riverside
    • Buying and Selling in the North Shore
    • Buying and Selling in Austin, Texas
  • PROPERTIES
    • FOR SALE PROPERTIES
    • RENTAL PROPERTIES
Menu
  • ABOUT US
    • Meet the Team
    • Testimonials
    • Local Events
  • BLOG
    • ALL BLOGS
    • FIRST TIME HOMEBUYERS GUIDE
  • RESOURCES
    • BUYERS
    • SELLERS
    • Buying and Selling in Riverside
    • Buying and Selling in the North Shore
    • Buying and Selling in Austin, Texas
  • PROPERTIES
    • FOR SALE PROPERTIES
    • RENTAL PROPERTIES