Bricks and mortar, plumbing and electrics are no longer the only key elements to consider in the construction of residential developments. Making sure connectivity via smart technology is incorporated into future design is becoming paramount and if not taken seriously, could have a negative impact on the saleability of future homes.
Why should developers be concerned?
Today, a high percentage of individuals are already invested in smart technology. It almost becomes a shock factor if we discover someone who does not have a smart phone. As if it is almost a requirement to our existence. A device that helps us to function our day to day lives. We use them for a myriad of activities from managing our finances, checking our emails, to connection and communication via social media. Smart technology can even track our location or control our television. It is in everyone’s pocket and eventually, will be in every home. Right now, is an opportunity to consider how installation can be incorporated at the early stages of development and getting ahead of the competition.
So how does smart technology lead to a smart home?
If you think in a practical sense, then the first things to consider useful when it comes to technology are the likes of security, heating, and electrical appliances. All of which can be incorporated into the design of future homes. Potential buyers of the not too distant future will be looking for this additional value as one of the most important criteria of their property search. Therefore, it is wise that developers are taking steps forward and embracing what technology has to offer.
Let’s look at how this smart technology works…
Security - Viewing security cameras on a mobile device or being able to turn on lights when away from the home is a great contribution to your home security. Incorporating electronic locks also eliminates issues of key loss or having to change locks.
- Heating – A clear intention of smart heating is to help the consumer to save money and contribute to a ‘green’ way of living. Being able to control the heating thermostat from the comfort of your own home or your place of work or leisure means that consumers save money by not wasting unwanted heating energy.
- Electrical appliances - Boil the kettle from upstairs with the touch of a command from a mobile device. Turn on a light for convenience as well as security. These appliances may not need to be considered so much from the developer’s perspective, as they factor more into an individual consumer purchase. However, it is worthy of consideration.
- Media and entertainment – This smart technology falls more into the ‘luxury’ category rather than practical. Home entertainment systems are considered a key lifestyle element and an incentive to buy. It’s all about being smart home ready and not necessarily about the installation because technology moves so fast within this industry, that integrated systems could very quickly become outdated.
It is also worth noting that the addition of solar panels and biomass generators to properties are becoming a common occurrence in today’s residential conveyancing process. As increasingly more people get on board with living a ‘greener’ lifestyle that incorporates today’s technology, the need for legal departments to be alert to these smart additions to existing properties is on the rise.
How will developers benefit?
By acting now, developers are preparing for the demands of the future. People are becoming increasingly connected and investing in the latest technology to make their lives simpler, safer and more cost effective.
Putting mobile connectivity at the heart of new developments
The latest ONS report on UK internet access showed that nearly three quarters of adults are using smartphones to get online – nearly double the number just five years ago. With such widespread and increasing demand for mobile internet access, it goes without saying that people expect a reliable, fast connection whenever and wherever they are.
Where to find more information about smart homes.
Home automation is the future and if not considered carefully, could impact on potential property sales. If you would like to know more about smart home technology, here is a useful article to get you started.
What is a Smart House?
Whether you have heard of it referred to as a Smart House, the Smart Home or the Connected Home, there is no doubt there is a momentum developing behind the “internet of things” and it’s influence in our own homes – particularly within the New Homes sector.
We will be providing further articles on the subject of smart homes and how not only developers, but consumers can prepare for this fast-paced world of technology advancement.
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