Smart Home Technologies: Boosting Property Value in the Modern Market

Steph Sanchez

March 4, 2025

Introduction

The real estate market has evolved significantly in the past decade, and one of the biggest trends is the rise of smart home technology. More homebuyers today expect modern features that enhance convenience, security, and energy efficiency.

For homeowners looking to increase property value, integrating smart home upgrades can make a home more attractive to buyers and even justify a higher selling price.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

✔ How smart home tech increases home value
✔ Best smart upgrades to attract buyers
✔ What buyers are looking for in smart homes
✔ How to market a smart home for sale

💡 Related: If you're thinking about selling, read our guide on The Best Ways to Market Your FSBO Home.

Why Smart Home Technology Increases Property Value

1. Higher Buyer Demand for Smart Homes

✔ A 2024 survey by the National Association of Realtors (NAR) found that 70% of homebuyers prefer homes with smart technology.
✔ Homes with security systems, smart thermostats, and automated lighting often sell faster and at a higher price.

2. Energy Savings and Sustainability

✔ Smart thermostats and energy-efficient lighting reduce electricity bills, making homes more cost-effective to maintain.
✔ Solar-powered smart home features appeal to eco-conscious buyers, a growing segment of the real estate market.

3. Competitive Edge in the Market

✔ If two similar homes are listed for sale, the one with smart home features is likely to attract more interest.
✔ Buyers are willing to pay up to 5% more for homes with integrated smart technology.

💡 Pro Tip: When listing your home, highlight smart features in the MLS description to attract tech-savvy buyers.

Best Smart Home Upgrades to Increase Property Value

1. Smart Thermostats (Energy Efficiency & Comfort)

Why?
A smart thermostat learns your habits and adjusts heating and cooling automatically, saving homeowners up to 20% on energy bills.

✔ Popular models: Nest Learning Thermostat, Ecobee SmartThermostat
✔ Cost: $150 - $250
✔ ROI: High – Energy savings & buyer appeal

💡 Related: Check out Energy-Efficient Home Upgrades for more ways to cut costs and improve home value.

2. Smart Lighting Systems (Convenience & Security)

Why?
✔ Motion-sensing lights enhance home security
✔ Smart bulbs and dimmers allow voice-controlled automation
✔ LED smart bulbs use 75% less energy than traditional bulbs

✔ Popular brands: Philips Hue, Lutron Caséta
✔ Cost: $50 - $300 (depending on the number of lights)
✔ ROI: Moderate – Energy savings & high-tech appeal

3. Smart Security Systems (Peace of Mind for Buyers)

Why?
✔ Buyers prioritize home safety – a smart security system is a major selling point.
✔ Video doorbells allow homeowners to see visitors remotely, adding an extra layer of security.

✔ Popular brands: Ring, Arlo, ADT
✔ Cost: $200 - $800
✔ ROI: High – Adds security, a major buyer concern

💡 Pro Tip: Mention security features in your real estate listing to attract families and first-time buyers.

4. Smart Door Locks (Convenience & Access Control)

Why?
✔ Keyless entry provides added convenience and enhanced security.
✔ Temporary codes can be assigned to guests or delivery services.

✔ Popular brands: August Smart Lock, Schlage Encode
✔ Cost: $150 - $300
✔ ROI: Moderate – Buyers love keyless entry convenience

5. Smart Blinds & Shades (Luxury & Energy Savings)

Why?
✔ Automated blinds adjust based on sunlight, reducing heating and cooling costs.
✔ Luxury buyers appreciate modern automation features.

✔ Popular brands: Lutron Serena, Somfy
✔ Cost: $200 - $1,500 (depending on window size)
✔ ROI: High – Luxury appeal & energy savings

💡 Pro Tip: Smart shades increase home privacy, a key factor for high-end buyers.

6. Whole-Home Smart Hubs (Integration & Control)

Why?
✔ A central hub connects all smart devices, providing seamless automation.
✔ Smart home hubs like Amazon Echo, Google Nest Hub, and Apple HomeKit allow buyers to control lights, locks, and thermostats from one place.

✔ Cost: $100 - $300
✔ ROI: High – Tech-savvy buyers expect full home automation

How to Market a Smart Home for Sale

If you’ve made smart upgrades, showcase them when selling to attract more buyers.

1. Highlight Smart Features in the Listing

✔ Use phrases like "energy-efficient smart home" or "automated security system included".
✔ Include brand names in the listing (buyers trust Nest, Ring, and Philips Hue).

2. Stage a "Smart Home Experience" for Showings

✔ Set up smart lighting to adjust automatically when buyers enter.
✔ Demonstrate voice-controlled devices like Alexa or Google Assistant.

3. Include Smart Devices in the Sale

✔ Many buyers prefer move-in-ready smart homes.
✔ Offering a pre-configured smart home package can increase your home’s value.

💡 Related: For more home-selling strategies, check out How to Prepare Your Home for a Quick Sale.

Final Thoughts: Smart Homes Sell Faster & For More

Smart home technology is no longer a luxury—it’s an expected feature for modern buyers. By adding smart thermostats, lighting, security, and automation systems, you can:

✔ Increase home value
✔ Attract tech-savvy buyers
✔ Sell your home faster

🚀 Sell Your Smart Home With ListLean!

Want to market your smart home effectively?

✅ List your home on MLS + Zillow + Redfin + Realtor.com & 500+ sites
✅ Highlight smart home features in your real estate listing
✅ Save thousands with a Flat-Fee MLS listing

Start your listing today at ListLean.com!

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FAQ’s

Frequently asked questions

What is the MLS?

The Multiple Listing Service, or MLS, is a database used by real estate brokers to share information about properties for sale by sellers they represent to brokers who represent potential buyers.

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What is a Flat Fee MLS listing?

A Flat Fee MLS listing is a service that allows homeowners like you to list their property on the local MLS for a flat fee rather than paying a traditional real estate agent's commission, which is typically a percentage of the sale price.

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How does a Flat Fee MLS listing work?

You pay a one-time fee to have your property listed on the MLS database. This fee usually covers the cost of listing your property on the MLS for a specified period, often ranging from 6 months to a year. You retain the right to sell your home FSBO and handle the selling process yourself.

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What are the benefits of using a Flat Fee MLS service?

Increased Exposure: All the real estate agents and potential buyers in your area who browse the MLS listings will know your property is available to buy.
Control Over the Selling Process: By selling FSBO, you retain control over the entire selling process, including pricing, negotiations, and scheduling showings.
Cost Savings: Flat fee MLS listings can save you money compared to paying a traditional real estate agent's commission, which can amount to thousands of dollars.

Am I signing a listing agreement with ListLean?

No, you are not signing a traditional listing agreement with us. ListLean does not represent you as an agent. Instead, you are signing an MLS Entry Agreement, which is required to list your property on the MLS while staying compliant with board and MLS regulations. This agreement allows us to post your listing but does not establish an agent-client relationship. You still remain a For Sale By Owner (FSBO) seller, maintaining full control over your sale.

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Do I need to provide photos and descriptions for my listing?

Yes. Try to provide high-quality photos and a detailed description of your property for the MLS listing. Remember, you want to get the best price for your home, so clear, well-lit photos and an accurate (non-puffed) description will go a long way towards generating interest for your house. We offer professional photography for an extra $250 because we know first impressions are the only ones that matter online in the age of swiping left.

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Can I change the listing price or details after it's posted on the MLS?

Yes, totally doable. During the listing period, you’re allowed to make changes to your listing, such as adjusting the price or updating property details. You can do this at any time.

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How do showings and negotiations work with a Flat Fee MLS listing?

As the FSBO homeowner, you'll be responsible for scheduling and conducting showings with potential buyers. When you receive offers, you'll negotiate directly with the buyer or their agent. It's advisable to seek legal counsel or hire a real estate attorney to review any offers or contracts to ensure they're in your best interest.

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What happens if my property doesn't sell during the listing period?

If your property doesn't sell during the initial listing period, you may have the option to renew your Flat Fee MLS listing for an additional fee.

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Is ListLean a Licensed Broker?

Absolutely. ListLean LLC operates under Offercity Brokerage Inc, holding California CalBRE #02185966. As a licensed broker, we’re authorized to list your home on local MLS databases throughout California.

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