Raise your hand if you remember the Disney Channel Original Movie “Smart House,” which turns 25(!) this year. In the classic kids’ movie, an innovative scientist creates the first home completely powered by artificial intelligence in the form of a character named “PAT” (think Alexa, with a 1950’s housewife aesthetic). The unsuspecting family who wins the home moves into a realm of benevolent technology, which later turns hostile when a software glitch occurs. Chaos ensues.

It's hard to believe we’re living in a time where concepts explored in kids’ sci-fi films of the past are now a reality. In fact, for agents to stay relevant and continue to win new business, it’s now vital to understand smart home technology. Potential buyers are showing increasingly more interest in these features. For example, according to a 2023 study by Payless Power, 57% of buyers said smart home technologies are in the top 10 “most desirable green features in an eco-home.”

A smart home is a system where appliances and devices can be controlled automatically and/or remotely to make your home more responsive, secure, and efficient.

Key components of a smart home system include:

• Interconnected Devices:
  • A smart home integrates various devices, including smart appliances, lighting, thermostats, security cameras, and more.
  • These devices communicate with each other, allowing homeowners to control them remotely via a central hub or platform.
• Internet of Things (IoT):
  • The IoT plays a crucial role in smart homes. It enables devices to connect and share data over the internet.
  • For example, a smart thermostat learns your temperature preferences and adjusts the HVAC system accordingly without manual intervention.
• Internet Connectivity:
  • Stable and fast internet is essential for smart homes. Devices constantly exchange data over the internet, so a solid connection ensures seamless operation.

Sustainability: What the next generation of homebuyers really cares about

Sustainability has become a hot topic among the up-and-coming generation of homebuyers. In fact, one study revealed that About 70% of Gen Z house hunters say they'd pay more for a house with green upgrades with solar panels topping their wish list. With that in mind, here are some sustainable features it would be beneficial to become familiar with so that you can educate your clients:

Energy Efficiency:

• Smart homes optimize energy usage by adjusting lighting, heating, and cooling based on occupancy and time of day. $$
• Smart thermostats learn your preferences and adjust temperatures accordingly, reducing energy waste. $$
• LED smart bulbs consume less electricity and have longer lifespans than traditional incandescent bulbs. $
• Reduced Water Consumption:
• Smart irrigation systems monitor weather conditions and soil moisture to water your garden efficiently. $$$
• Leak detection sensors can prevent water wastage by alerting you to leaks promptly. $$

Solar Power Integration:

• Smart homes can seamlessly integrate with solar panels to harness renewable energy. $$$$
• You can monitor solar production and consumption through smart apps. $

Smart Appliances and Management:

• Energy-efficient smart appliances (like refrigerators, washing machines, and dishwashers) use less power. $$$
• Smart plugs and switches allow you to control appliances remotely. $
• Natural Light Optimization:
• Smart blinds and curtains adjust based on sunlight, reducing the need for artificial lighting. $$$
• Maximizing natural light minimizes energy consumption. $

• Solar Panels $$$$
• Energy-efficient smart appliances $$
• Multi-zone HVAC system $$$
• LED Lighting $
• Geothermal heating and cooling $$$$

About Melanie Dawn Molina Wood

Melanie Dawn Molina Wood is the Educational Program Coordinator for Real Source University for Anywhere Integrated Services. Melanie Dawn has worked in the real estate industry since 1985; and brings her experience and engaging teaching style to you with a series of high energy, educational real estate classes designed to boost your real estate knowledge and grow your business.