Thinking about selling your home? It’s common to look for affordable ways to upgrade your home and improve curb appeal to attract more buyers – and now home security is a popular new addition that can work in your favor. Potential homebuyers are more aware of smart features than ever before, and more likely to appreciate security features that can help keep their possessions and families safe: Let’s take a closer look at the most popular smart products, and what agents need to know about selling properties with home automation features.

Smart Detectors
A Coldwell Banker survey reported that 75% of potential homebuyers surveyed wanted smart smoke detectors in a house. These detectors function a lot like traditional smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, but they are also equipped with smart features. If you already have a compatible smart platform, they can join that platform along with other smart devices. Either way, they can provide updates and alerts directly to your phone about conditions at your home, no matter where you are. Not only can these devices update you about potential fires or CO leaks, many can also let you know when detector batteries are getting low!

A Smart Cam for Security
There are two types of smart cams used for home security. The first kind is an indoor version designed to keep track of the house at night or when the owners are away. If this kind is mounted to a wall or corner, it could be a valuable feature for buyers – otherwise, you will probably take it with you when you sell. However, outdoor security cams are more permanent and can offer additional features, such as the ability to see who’s knocking at the door. These smart cams are typically triggered by sensors, and can stream live footage to the right app anytime you want. Outdoor cams are typically installed in doorbells or near outdoor lighting.
As you can imagine, this is another feature that’s very popular among younger buyers: Consumer Reports says that millennial homebuyers are willing to spend 3% to 5% more for the right smart features!
Smart Door Locks

Smart door locks replace traditional locks with a heavy-duty electronic lock. Often, these locks can be programmed with a security code, but owners also have fobs or apps that will automatically unlock the door if they approach. Advanced smart locks allow owners to issue temporary passes for people (such as pet-sitters), and check the log of who has enter the door and when. It may seem like a small thing, but a 2017 survey by the National Association of Realtors found that realtors reports smart locks as being the most important smart device for their clients – followed by smart lights and smart thermostats.

A Fully Integrated Smart Home Security System
An integrated home security system typically includes a set of sensors that can sense motion or if a door/window has been opened, along with an alarm and alert system. Many also have the option to add monitoring services for a monthly fee, or connect additional smart devices like cams and lights for more complete protection. You can visit gadgetreview.com to take a look at the best full home security options available.

How Agents Can Talk About Smart Home Features
We know it can be difficult to talk about home automation with clients, especially if you don’t have much tech experience and don’t know what sort of value these features add. Always remember, a little research can go a long way! Check out our handy infographic for some helpful tips: