As automated features become
more widespread and their prices lower, some of them are growing increasingly
simple to add. And the scope of home systems and their effect on home values
can be quite varied. For some, adding an ‘automation system’ might consist of
something as simple as installing remote or automatic control of a few lights.
Others might make electronic security the key, choosing to install a
full-fledged central system.
Where wireless home Internet
networks are already in place, home values can easily be raised by the addition
of remote operation. Right now that may sound like an unnecessary futuristic
feature, but it may turn out that being able to control lights or heating
systems from afar could substantially increase energy efficiency (along with
home values).
Matthew Berman, one of the
owners of New York design firm Workshop/apd, was recently quoted in the New
York Times describing a “whole-home” lighting system.
“A popular feature of this kind
of system is the ability to hit one button when you're leaving your house to
turn off all the lights." As a practical matter, he also recommended keeping
automated systems separately controllable, making them less complicated to
operate and less subject to breakdown.
It's important to think
long-term as well as short-term -- especially for anyone looking to increase
home values, whether for future or immediate sale. Home automation is looking
like a worthy candidate for the Next Big Thing, and buyers might be ready to
gravitate toward advanced features that distinguish one local seller's home
from the competition. Call me if you
would like to discuss how home automation might come into play when it comes to
selling your area home.
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