Technology is integrated in nearly every aspect of our lives. Digital tools and devices can help people stay connected, be more efficient and increase productivity. There is also a growing interest among home owners to incorporate technology into their homes. A National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) nationwide survey asked recent and prospective home buyers what specific technology features buyers would like to have in their homes.
Home Security
Technology designed to keep homes safe was the top choice for home buyers. Of the home technology features asked about in the NAHB survey, nearly half of home buyers (46 percent) would like security cameras, followed by a video doorbell (45 percent) and 40 percent say a wireless home security system.
Wireless doorbells are gaining in popularity because they are easy to use and install. Some digital doorbells have numerous types of ringing sounds, WiFi capabilities and a nightlight feature to easily spot your front door. And as technology capabilities have improved, wireless home security systems have simple installation guides with self-monitoring capabilities or low monthly security subscription plans.
Temperature and Lighting
Technology features that increase home comfort while possibly lowering utility bills also topped the list of most-wanted features. Nearly half (44 percent) of home buyers would like to have a programmable thermostat, more than a third (39 percent) say they want a lighting control system and a multi-zone HVAC system (36 percent). The survey found generational differences when it came to temperature control. Half of seniors (buyers born in 1945 or earlier) would like to have a multi-zone HVAC system, compared to less than a third (28 percent) of millennials (born in 1980 or later).
Automated heating and cooling systems help maintain an energy-efficient temperature when home owners are away and then can switch to a more comfortable temperature when they arrive home. Automated dimmers, timers and smart bulbs can lower electricity bills and increase the life expectancy of light bulbs.
Voice Command Devices
The survey asked home buyers about the level of importance of voice command capabilities in home technology. Voice commands received an average importance rating of 3.0 – a neutral middle point. The results show that desire for voice control over technologies decreases with age. A third of (30 percent) of home buyers under the age of 45 think voice commands are very important compared to only 19 percent among those 45 to 54, 12 percent among those 55 to 64, and only eight percent among those 65 or older.
For more information about the latest technology trends to enhance your home, contact your local association here.
