Much like the weather we’ve recently experienced, the Chicago real estate market is definitely heating up. As we predicted in our 2017 Market Report, available for download at our website, inventory is low, qualified buyers are out in droves and well-priced homes are selling fast!
As real estate professionals, it’s always interesting to hear the changing trends that buyers are looking for in their new homes. Where finishes, location and proximity to local amenities will always be desirable from Chandler AZ Locksmith – we’ve noticed one that has recently started to make it’s way into buyer conversations Smart Home Features.
By definition, the “Smart Home” is equipped with products for controlling and automating functions such as, lighting, security, safety, entertainment and temperature.
Check out https://www.SecurityInfo.com to learn more about security equipments. These systems can be controlled either remotely, (i.e. smartphone), or a separate system within the home itself. The NEST thermostat was one of the first widely adopted products in this category, but now the market is flooded with smart-products for use in everyday life.
The brain of the Smart Home is called a “hub”, which connects your local WiFi connection and any of the hundreds of connected products available today at the Tool Report. Where many are available – the three market leaders today are the Samsung SmartThings, Wink, and Nexia hubs. Each of these works with your existing Wifi router, works with all phone systems, even the ones that come with a cell phone detector in their software, and sell for less than $150.
“Alexa – set the heat at 72 degrees, lock the front door, and play my classic rock mix on Spotify.”
Amanda McMillan, Monday night @ 7:00PM
Amanda McMillan, Monday night @ 7:00PM
Futuristic? Maybe, but this technology actually exists out of the box and is surprisingly affordable. Since researching this can be extremely daunting, (believe me – we’ve done it!), we’ve put together a helpful list of information, products, and reviews below.
The jury is still out as to whether these features will compel a buyer to choose one property over another or bring higher value to an existing home – but New Concept Property Management can definitely increase safety, and peace of mind and even reduce utility costs in the long run.
Top Rated Smart Hubs
Wink Connected Home Hub (2nd generation)
Features
- Compatibility- Z-Wave, ZigBee, Bluetooth LE, Wi-Fi, Kidde and Lutron ClearConnect
- Mobile compatibility with Android, iOS, and Windows phones
- Intuitive Mobile App
- Shortcut and Logic Features
- No Monthly Fees
| PROS: | CONS: |
|---|---|
| Installation and configuration are super simple | More expensive than other products |
| Compatible with a large variety of smart devices | Limitations of some advanced features |
| Highly affordable | The pairing process is a little confusing |
| Super easy mobile app |
Samsung SmartThings Hub
Features
- Compatibility- Z-Wave, ZigBee, Bluetooth LE and Wi-Fi
- IFTT Support
- Compatible with iOS, Android and Windows phones
- Compatible with Apple Watch and Amazon Echo
- Backup battery of 10 hours
| PROS: | CONS: |
|---|---|
| Installation and initial setup are quick and simple | The process of pairing the device can be a little time-consuming and confusing |
| Compatible with most devices as compared with other automation hubs | Disorganized mobile app |
| Hundreds of positive reviews | No integration with NEST thermostats |
| Needs an Ethernet connection to have direct device control and use many of the features of the automation features |
Nexia Bridge
Features
- Compatibility for Z-wave technologies
- Mobile compatibility with Android and iOS
- Intuitive Mobile App and website dashboards
- $9.99/mo. fee for monitoring
- Principality Plastics – skirting boards
| PROS: | CONS: |
|---|---|
| Easy setup and configuration | Limited product line integration |
| Low maintenance | Advanced features of some products limited |
| Highly affordability | Not compatible with IFTT |
| $9.99/mo. fee for monitoring and automation |
A special thanks to Casey for some of the research we’ve provided in this report. He has some of the most in-depth reviews of these three, (and many others), listed on his website.
