5 ways technology can improve your home, and its value

You’ve seen the idea of a smart home in TV shows and movies, being able to control everything with a touch of a button. Well, the future is now here and a smart home is finally within reach! Learn about the five ways technology can improve your life at home in this recent Inc.com article by Avi Savar.

You’ll Never Leave the Lights on Again

Leaving a light on overnight doesn’t seem like a big deal, but if you do it often enough, you’re bound to burn through bulbs and notice a difference in your electric bill. With smart lighting, you can dim your lights using an app on your smartphone from another room or even another city. So, if you forget to turn off the hallway light as you leave for vacation, it won’t burn the entire time you’re gone. You’ll just turn it off with a few taps on your phone and then sleep easy. You can also set a timer for your smart lights, ensuring they always dim or turn off at bedtime.

You Can Adjust the Temperature From Anywhere

Sitting comfortably in your armchair and feeling too lazy to get up and turn down the heat? This is not a problem when you have a smart thermostat. Like smart lighting, this easy-to-use gadget can be controlled manually, but you can also access it from your smartphone. Some products, including Nest, are even able to sense when you’re home, versus when you’re away, and adjust the temperature as needed.

Your Utility Bills Will Plummet

Smart lighting and a smart thermostat can cut your electric bill in half, but there are ways to save even more. Invest in solar panels and you may save more than $1,000 per year on utilities. While there is a significant cost associated with installing solar panels (around $10,000), tax credits are available to help you reduce your out-of-pocket expenses. Whether you’re going to be in your home for the long haul or you just care about reducing your home’s carbon footprint, solar panels are a great alternative to remaining on the grid.