6 Inexpensive Ways to Make Your Home "Smart"
Juan Murray
Juan began his real estate career in 1994 as their Housing Rehabilitation Director for the Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America (NACA), a na...
Juan began his real estate career in 1994 as their Housing Rehabilitation Director for the Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America (NACA), a na...
You've probably heard the term "Smart Home" by now. It's all the buzz for companies creating technologies to save you time, money and energy.
The common misconception, however, is that you need a modern expensive home with expensive upgrades to make your home "smart".
It's not true.
Below are 6 relatively inexpensive ways that you can use to smarten up your home now (and most of them are under $200).
1. Video Door Bells
It's always concerning hearing the doorbell ring and not knowing who is on the other side. Wouldn't you like to know, even if you're not at home? These doorbell cameras will let you see and speak with the person on the other side ... you determine who gets let in and when. (Under $200)
2. Swap Out Light Bulbs for LEDs
Energy saving light bulbs are not exactly brand new - but it's surprising just how many people Do Not use them. LED bulbs could save you up to $125 per year! That might not sound like a ton of money ... but it's just enough to buy that Amazon Echo you've always wanted. ($10 - $30)
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3. Smart Outlets
Want to leave the lights on for a few hours after heading out for dinner and a movie? The handy outlets allow you to set timers and plug lamps or any other electronic device into and control them as you wish. ($25 - $75)
4. Motion Sensing Light Switches
Forgot to turn the lights off when you left home ... again? No need to worry. These motion sensor light switches will do the work for you. Just set it and forget it. Also useful for those late night trips to the bathroom. ($15 - $70)
5. Voice Controlled Bluetooth Devices
(Amazon Echo/Google Home) These hubs can literally do it all. Order groceries, turn on lights, control the heat - you name it! They each have personal voice assistants that can help you to play your favorite music and tell you any factoid you are looking for as well! ($69 - $129)
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6. WiFi Temperature Systems
Hate coming home to a cold house? Or do you forget and leave the heat blaring when you leave? These handy systems allow you to control the thermostat from anywhere inside, or outside your home! Just download the app that the system requires, and you can lay in bed comfortably and make sure your home is the perfect temp! ($60 - $180)
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