New home features continue to get smarter by the year. Thermostats, doorbells, lighting, and other elements are easily operated through apps, automation, and voice control.
Paul Willis, director of purchasing and estimating at Stone Martin Builders—No. 86 on the 2024 Builder 100 list—is enthusiastic about fostering a deeper connection between homeowners and their new homes. “By integrating advanced smart home technology as a standard feature, we aim to enhance convenience, security, and energy efficiency in every home we build,” he says.
To meet the evolving needs of modern families, Willis tracks what is top of mind for buyers when it comes to smart home features. He shares his insights on current trends and what is on the horizon below.
What are some of the top smart home tech features home buyers have been expecting this year?
Home buyers are increasingly expecting features that enhance both convenience and security. Top smart home features in demand include: Deako smart lighting systems, doorbell cameras with live video feeds, integrated security panels, smart thermostats for energy efficiency, and smart garage door operators. Full-home automation systems that can be controlled from a single app, like Alarm.com, are becoming particularly desirable.
How have these expectations changed in recent years?
In recent years, the focus has shifted from smart home technology as a luxury or upgrade option to an expectation for new homes. Buyers no longer see these features as add-ons but as integral parts of modern living. As a result, integrated ecosystems, where multiple devices are controlled from one platform, have become a baseline expectation. There’s also an increased emphasis on energy efficiency and seamless control via voice-activated devices like Alexa or Google Home.
Which products can builders see the largest return on investment from?
Smart thermostats, Deako smart lighting, and security systems offer the largest return on investment. Not only do they provide immediate value to homeowners regarding energy savings and security, but they also have broad appeal to all demographics. These features often lead to quicker home sales, justify slightly higher price points, and reduce homeowner insurance rates. Also, these features enhance the home's overall value without significant cost increases for builders.
Are tech packages an option or is a more a la carte approach preferred by home buyers?
While some buyers prefer a la carte options to customize their homes, the trend is shifting toward bundled tech packages, especially for essential features like security, climate control, and lighting. Bundling these features makes it easier for homeowners to control everything from a single app, which aligns with the growing preference for simplicity and integration. We’re responding to this demand for streamlined solutions by offering these features as standard.
What tech features are now standard for Stone Martin?
At Stone Martin, we’ve decided to include several smart home features as standard to elevate the homeowner experience. These include: Deako smart lighting, doorbell cameras, integrated security panel, smart thermostats, and smart garage door operators. All these are tied into the Alarm.com platform, giving homeowners control over their environment from one app.
As the year progresses, which products do you see becoming more prominent?
Alongside voice-activated controls, smart water management and security is rapidly growing in demand. Features like smart faucets, irrigation systems, and water shut-off devices that can monitor water usage and prevent leaks are becoming must-haves for homeowners. These products enhance convenience and align with the increasing emphasis on water conservation and sustainability.
What about 2025? Any predictions on what trends the new year will bring?
We expect water conservation to play a significant role in smart home innovations by 2025. Smart water management systems, including automated irrigation, water monitoring, and shut-off devices, will become increasingly mainstream. These technologies will protect homes from water damage, decrease insurance rates, and help homeowners reduce water usage, which is becoming a top priority for conservation.
