The Best Smart Home Upgrades for Modern Buyers

maureenmoran
Jun 26
2 min read

Today’s homebuyers are looking for more than just curb appeal—they want convenience, security, and energy efficiency. Smart home technology has become a top selling point, with many buyers willing to pay more for a home equipped with modern upgrades.

If you're planning to sell—or just want to increase your home's appeal—here are the best smart home upgrades for modern buyers.

1. Smart Thermostats

A smart thermostat, like the Nest or Ecobee, helps homeowners save on energy bills and control temperatures remotely. It learns your schedule, adjusts automatically, and can be managed from your phone.

Why buyers love it:

Reduces energy usage
Adds comfort and convenience
Integrates with voice assistants like Alexa or Google Home

2. Video Doorbells and Smart Security Systems

Smart doorbells (like Ring or Arlo) offer real-time video and two-way communication, even when you're not home. Full home security systems can include motion sensors, smart locks, and 24/7 monitoring.

Why buyers love it:

Enhanced safety and peace of mind
Control access remotely
Get alerts for package deliveries or unusual activity

3. Smart Lighting Systems

Smart lighting lets homeowners control brightness, colors, and schedules from their smartphone or via voice commands.

Popular systems include:

Philips Hue
LIFX
TP-Link Kasa

Why buyers love it:

Customizable ambiance
Improves energy efficiency
Adds security with scheduled lighting while away

4. Smart Appliances

Modern buyers are looking for high-tech kitchens and laundry rooms. Smart refrigerators, ovens, dishwashers, and washers/dryers that connect to Wi-Fi offer remote control, maintenance alerts, and efficiency.

Why buyers love it:

Seamless lifestyle upgrades
Real-time updates and remote access
Energy- and water-saving features

5. Smart Locks and Garage Door Openers

Forgot to lock the door? Need to let someone in while you’re away? Smart locks and Wi-Fi enabled garage door openers make this simple.

Why buyers love it:

Keyless entry
App control for access
Temporary codes for guests or deliveries

6. Smart Irrigation Systems

Watering your lawn can be wasteful—or perfectly timed with smart irrigation. These systems adjust based on weather and soil moisture.

Why buyers love it:

Lower water bills
Low maintenance landscaping
Environmentally friendly

7. Whole-Home Smart Hubs and Voice Control

Smart speakers like Amazon Echo or Google Nest Hub act as control centers for your entire home, from lighting to thermostats to music.

Why buyers love it:

Centralized convenience
Hands-free control
Syncs all smart devices seamlessly

Why Smart Home Upgrades Matter for Sellers

Adding smart technology not only improves your quality of life—it can also boost your home's value and appeal. According to industry reports, homes with smart upgrades: