Easy Ways to Make Your Rental Property a Smart Home

Easy Ways to Make Your Rental Property a Smart Home



More people are becoming interested in outfitting their homes with "smart home" and home automation systems. The main reasons for investing in this type of technology include comfort, convenience, and security.   

Although smart home technology may be considered by some as a luxury found only in expensive custom homes, it turns out that you can also afford to have a "smart home" when you live in a rental property. 

Creating an intelligent, conveniently connected home space in your apartment or rental home is easy and affordable. The key is to start smart and small. Begin by purchasing the products and features that add value, convenience, and security without killing your budget. 

Always remember to check your lease agreement or your property owner to make sure any changes you make are allowed. Keep in mind that as a renter, you may want to take your smart devices with you to your next rental home.

Check out these smart home technology ideas for your rental property:

The environment: Probably first on the list of connected home devices we think of is a simple device that controls the comfort of the environment in your home -- the smart thermostat. Why use energy to heat/cool your home when you’re not there? 

Some of these devices learn your setting preferences and will remember your habits. The smart technology allows the thermostat to conform to your daily routine and keep your place comfortable at the times you are there. You can also access devices remotely via a smartphone app to make specific setting changes before you arrive at home. Popular smart thermostats start at about $250. That may seem a bit expensive, but remember the savings (up to 20%) in your energy bills that help pay off the investment (and then some!).

Automated lighting: This popular smart home feature is both a convenience and a safety upgrade. Connected LED technology gives you the flexibility to change the lighting in your home remotely at any time. Who hasn’t forgotten to turn off the lights when you leave? And let’s not get started with roommates who forget to. 

LED bulbs use up to 80% less energy and last about 25% longer than conventional light bulbs. Smart LED systems work in existing light sockets for seamless installation and are relatively inexpensive, starting at $35.

Smart TV: Are television networks and cable (except for WiFi) obsolete? They might be for some of us, considering the innovations in connected television technology. A smart TV is internet connected, providing access to websites, apps and streaming services that give you the choice and flexibility to watch what you like -- when you like. 

Even with a "not-so-smart" TV, USB connect-able "sticks" will allow you access to the internet and streaming services, so you can match your existing TV technology to your needs on your chosen budget.

Security: Keeping our possessions safe and secure is a major priority in home automation. Smart locks fit the bill as the first line of defense in home security. An automated dead bolt lock gives you convenience, safety, and security at the reasonable price of about $200. An automated bolt lock that fits with an existing deadbolt means easy installation without making changes to the entryway door. Smartphone app integration gives you remote access to securing the door as well as the ability to track who goes in and out. Make sure the model you choose also works with a key though, just in case.

Video surveillance: Looking past the security of the door lock, having home video surveillance is real-time security. Home security cameras for the entry door and around the interior of your home give you instant access to your home security status. You can use it to keep an eye on your pets too! Look for a system that installs easily and has high (1080p) resolution so your remote view is like an eagle eye on your home.

Finally, you may consider technology which allows you to tie all of your smart home features together in an easily accessed control point. For example, both Google and Amazon have devices which bring all of your home automation applications together for under $200. 


Keeping your rental home comfortable and safe with smart home technology is easy and affordable! Have you made the switch to home automation or are you considering it?


Related Resource

ForRent.com Apartment Automation: How to Smarten up Your Flat


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