When selling your home, first impressions matter. While traditional home improvements to make before listing—like fresh paint and landscaping—can boost curb appeal, today’s buyers are also looking for modern conveniences. Smart home technology has become a key selling point, offering security, energy efficiency, and ease of use. Adding a few smart features can help you sell your home faster and potentially justify a higher listing price.
If you’re debating whether to sell your home as is or make repairs first, incorporating smart devices can be an affordable way to enhance your home’s appeal without major renovations. Below are some of the top smart home upgrades that can make a difference when preparing your home for sale.
Smart Security Systems
Security is a top priority for buyers, and adding a smart security system can make your home stand out. Features like video doorbells, smart locks, and wireless security cameras provide extra protection while offering convenience.
- Smart Locks – Keyless entry systems allow homeowners to unlock doors via their smartphone or a keypad, eliminating the need for keys. This is an attractive feature for buyers who want a secure and modern home.
- Video Doorbells – Devices like Ring or Nest Hello let homeowners see and speak to visitors remotely, which adds an extra layer of safety.
- Security Cameras – Indoor and outdoor smart cameras with motion detection and cloud storage give buyers peace of mind about their new home’s security.
Investing in a basic smart security system is a cost-effective way to add value when preparing your home for sale. Buyers are often willing to pay more for a home that already includes these desirable features.
Smart Lighting
Lighting plays a significant role in how welcoming a home feels. Smart lighting systems not only enhance ambiance but also add energy-saving benefits that appeal to cost-conscious buyers.
- Smart Bulbs and Switches – Homeowners can control smart bulbs remotely, set schedules, and even adjust color temperatures to suit different moods.
- Motion-Activated Lights – These are perfect for outdoor security and energy efficiency, helping to lower utility costs.
- Voice-Controlled Lighting – Connected to a home assistant like Alexa or Google Home, smart lighting can be adjusted with simple voice commands.
If you’re wondering which home improvements to make before listing, replacing outdated lighting fixtures with smart alternatives is a simple yet effective upgrade. It creates a more modern feel and can justify a higher listing price.
Smart Thermostats
Energy efficiency is a major selling point, and a smart thermostat is one of the easiest upgrades to make before listing your home. These devices automatically adjust the temperature based on the homeowner’s habits, reducing energy waste and lowering utility bills—something that buyers appreciate.
- Popular models like Nest and Ecobee can be controlled remotely via smartphone, allowing homeowners to adjust temperatures even when they’re away.
- Adaptive learning technology helps optimize energy use, saving money on heating and cooling costs.
- Integration with smart home systems means these thermostats work seamlessly with voice assistants like Alexa or Google Home.
If you’re considering whether to sell your home as is or make repairs first, installing a smart thermostat is a low-cost improvement that can make your home more attractive to buyers. It signals that the property is modern, efficient, and move-in ready—qualities that can help you sell your home faster.
Smart Home Assistants & Automation
Today’s buyers love convenience, and smart home assistants offer just that. Devices like Amazon Echo, Google Nest Hub, and Apple HomePod act as control centers for various smart home features, making daily life easier.
- Voice-controlled automation allows homeowners to adjust lighting, play music, check the weather, and even control security systems with simple voice commands.
- Home automation hubs connect multiple smart devices, creating a seamless smart home experience.
- Intercom and communication features make it easy to stay connected throughout the home.
When preparing your home for sale, including a smart home assistant in your staging can demonstrate the home’s tech-friendly features. Buyers will appreciate a home that’s already set up for modern living, making them more likely to see the value in your property.
Smart Appliances
If you’re looking for home improvements to make before listing that won’t require extensive remodeling, consider upgrading to smart appliances. While a full kitchen renovation can be costly, adding a few high-tech touches can still elevate your home’s appeal.
- Smart refrigerators offer touchscreen displays, grocery tracking, and voice command features.
- Wi-Fi-enabled ovens allow users to preheat, adjust settings, and monitor cooking from their phone.
- Smart washing machines and dryers optimize laundry cycles for efficiency and convenience.
- Robot vacuums like Roomba can be an appealing feature for busy buyers looking for effortless cleaning.
Even if you don’t plan to replace every appliance, highlighting existing smart features in your listing can make your home feel more modern and help justify a higher listing price.
Smart Irrigation Systems
Curb appeal plays a big role in attracting buyers, and a lush, well-maintained lawn can make a great first impression. However, buyers are also looking for efficiency—no one wants to deal with high water bills or complicated sprinkler systems. A smart irrigation system is a simple upgrade that can enhance your landscaping while also promoting water conservation.
- Automated watering schedules adjust based on weather forecasts and soil moisture levels.
- Remote control via smartphone apps allows homeowners to manage their sprinkler system from anywhere.
- Water-saving features help reduce waste, making the home more eco-friendly and cost-efficient.
If you’re deciding whether to sell your home as is or make repairs first, adding a smart irrigation system is an easy way to make your home stand out without investing in major landscaping renovations. Buyers will appreciate a home that offers both beauty and practicality.
Smart Garage Door Openers
A garage is an important selling point for many buyers, but an outdated or unreliable garage door system can be a turnoff. Smart garage door openers provide both convenience and security, making them a worthwhile upgrade when preparing your home for sale.
- Remote access allows homeowners to open and close the garage from anywhere using a smartphone.
- Real-time alerts notify users if the garage is left open, adding an extra layer of security.
- Integration with smart home systems enables voice control through Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit.
For buyers who receive package deliveries or have frequent visitors, a smart garage opener adds peace of mind. If you’re wondering whether to sell your home as is or make repairs first, installing one is a relatively inexpensive way to modernize your home and enhance its appeal. Buyers will see it as a small but valuable feature that sets your home apart.
Conclusion
When it comes to preparing your home for sale, even small upgrades can make a big difference. Smart home devices offer an affordable way to increase your home’s appeal without extensive renovations. Features like smart security systems, energy-efficient thermostats, automated lighting, and modern appliances not only make everyday living more convenient but also help sell your home faster by attracting tech-savvy buyers.
If you’re wondering which home improvements to make before listing, consider incorporating smart technology to boost your home’s value and set it apart from the competition. Even simple additions can elevate the buyer experience, helping you secure a higher listing price and a quicker sale.