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                18 AUG

                12 Home Technology Tips

                12 Home Technology Tips

                I used to tell clients that an old roof and metal shutters should not be replaced when selling.  People dream of a beautiful sexy kitchen and oasis bath.  While this is still true, now the first question from a buyer is, “how old is that roof?”  Insurance has become more costly and can get turned down based on age of the roof for starters.  Now, if you want that beautiful kitchen, the dream oftentimes stops if you can’t get insurance and it turns into a nightmare.

                The other places where people have spent money have changed.  Some are obvious.  A few years back a client wanted me to get his $50,000 back out of the built-in media unit that stored 400 discs as a selling feature.  When I softly told him that styles had changed, he told me to re-purpose it.  Blockbuster went adios a while back and not even the best ice salesperson to Eskimos could do that.  I didn’t have the heart to say it was going to cost him money to remove it.

                Smart Home Technology is another one to be careful of.  People used to pour tens of thousands of dollars into this category.   One would think more money would need to be spent as there is technology for security, your dog, and even your e a** (yes one of our 12 tech tips is for that!  – hey the toilet is part of the house!) You really don’t need to  anymore and here is why….

                Just like AOL once-upon-a-time charging $19.99 or a car manufacturer charging thousands of dollars for a navigation system, free or cheap technology changed the game.  Free email and Google Maps made both of those products obsolete.

                Today you can custom tailor your smart home – and make your home life a little more automated, by adding smart devices and appliances that can be controlled remotely such as lighting, heating, cleaning and even security systems! Think WIFI not WIRES!

                A SMART home will include a ton of appliances and systems that will be controlled by one central hub. When thinking about what works best for your own home, you’ll probably want to think about what brand you want to use first since they all link together. Do you like Amazon? How about Google? Another point to consider is what your HOA is already paying for. If you have Comcast for example, it might dictate what technology to integrate with. However, you don’t need to spend huge $$$ turning your whole house into a high-tech NASA style residence if you don’t want to. Just like a pick-n-mix, you can add just the components that suit your lifestyle and your needs. Hate leaving your dog at home alone? Buy a 2-way pet camera – check on your best pal from your phone – some even allow you to talk to them and dispense treats! Need help with meal planning and shopping lists? How about a smart fridge – search recipes, order groceries, set up a family calendar – all from your fridge!

                 

                We asked our ECHO agents for their favorite pieces of home technology, that they personally use and recommend.

                1. Ring

                Doorbells, Security Cameras, Alarms and more! This system integrates with Amazon and what started as a simple video doorbell (“Hello Amazon delivery driver, please leave the package on the porch!!!!”) now also offers a whole host of affordable home security options.

                2. Nest

                This integrates with Google and can control everything from your television to your thermostat. Products include smart speakers, smoke detectors, thermostats, and security systems. Control your AC from anywhere using your phone!

                3. iRobot

                This terrific robot will clean your house while you’re out at work or relaxing in the garden – all controlled by an app. And your pets will love it!

                4. Sonos surround sound

                This integrates with nearly anything and can stream music, radio, podcasts and more all through the Sonos app!

                5. Rachio

                This automated sprinkler system works off of local weather forecasts to help save water. Save water and save time worrying about your lawn!

                6. Ecobee

                These smart thermostats integrate with Amazon Alexa, and they also offer smart security options.

                7. iAquaLink

                Pool control in the palm of your hand! Control up to 32 pool/spa features through the app. Want to get the hot-tub warmed up whilst you open a bottle of wine? No problem!

                8. Control4

                A full home automation system that connects all your smart devices for the ultimate in SMART home living.

                9. Hotwire

                If you have it in your HOA can integrate with Google and log in through your television and change the channel with their AI.

                10. Smart lightbulbs

                A simple yet POWERFUL upgrade from your standard lightbulbs. Pair the lightbulb with your smartphone and you will never have to hunt in the darkness for a light switch again! Change colors, dim the lights, turn off that kitchen light you forgot about from the comfort of your sofa – so many options you didn’t know you needed!

                11. Hello Tushy

                Heat warmers, automatic open and close and so much more!

                12. Infrared touchless faucets

                Especially needed if you don’t have a Hello Tushy!

                 

                 

                Jeff Lichtenstein, originally from Chicago, got his start in the home furnishings textile business where he traveled over 35 weeks a year selling fabrics. After the family business was sold, Jeff moved to Florida and became a real estate agent. Today he is the owner and broker of Echo Fine Properties, a luxury residential brokerage voted best brokerage of the year. Jeff manages a non-traditional model of real estate that mimics a traditional business model. Echo has 80 agents, an average of one million dollars per transaction and over 500 million in annual sales. Between traveling for work and annual family trips to national parks with his wife and 2 now adult children, Jeff has visited 49 states. He is also one of the few Chicago White Sox fans you’ll ever meet.  Some publications he has been quoted in.

                Feel free to ask him a question directly at [email protected] including a complementary  valuation of your home.

                 

                Posted in Jeff's Journal, Real Estate Tips, Resources, Staging, design, and open houses on August 18, 2023 at 1:46 pm.

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