We recently talked about some of the most common home renovations that don’t provide a good return at resale. Unsurprisingly, smart home features made it on to our list.

While devices that make your home smarter and more modern can improve your quality of life, they’re typically hard to factor into a home valuation. If you plan to sell, you likely won’t get a return on your investment. However, that’s not to say that smart home features are a waste of time, and if you plan to live in your home for another decade or even for life, then you could easily justify the expense.

Whole home renovation is a chance to create a space that is more comfortable, functional, and convenient. With the following smart technologies, you could take security and convenience to a new level in your home.

Wi-Fi Smart Lighting

Lighting is essential in any home. Get your lighting right, and you’ll have the perfect ambience for relaxation, entertaining, and whatever else you love to do in your home.

Lighting is typically a focus in whole house renovation, and you could take things a step further with a smart lighting system.

You could choose to incorporate whole-home smart lighting where all fixtures are connected to a single control board that can be accessed remotely, even when you’re away from home. More than just a convenience, being able to turn your lights on at any time could improve security by deterring criminals.

If you aren’t ready to invest in a whole home system, there are countless smart-bulb solutions available on the market. Bulbs are simple screw-in replacements and can be controlled from your smartphone. Systems like Philips Hue allow you to control color temperature and choose up to 16 million different hues.

A Smart Alarm System

You once needed to pay monthly fees for a monitored alarm system. The development of smart alarms has made this a thing of the past, allowing you to secure your home and monitor your property from anywhere that you have an internet connection.

You don’t need an alarm installation company to install a smart alarm. You could mount the sensors yourself, or, you could even have a Des Moines handyman do it for you. If you are performing whole home renovation, then you could have the contractors install the alarm so that it doesn’t feel like an afterthought.

Smart alarms can include door and window sensors as well as IP cameras to monitor entryways, driveways, and other areas of your home or outdoor property. You will be able to access your alarm remotely from your smartphone, with a live video stream if you choose a camera system.

The trick here is to not overdo it. Too many sensors will be inefficient and will add to the cost and complexity of installation.

A Smart Lock for Your Front Door

Your front door and entryway is one of the best areas to renovate. The façade of your home has a direct impact on curbside appeal, so upgrading your front door, adding feature siding, or simply painting the exterior will make you feel better about your home.

While you’re working around the front entryway, you could consider a smart lock for your front door. It’s possible to buy drop-in replacements from top lock companies like Kwikset, giving you more convenience when accessing your home.

Smart door locks work much like keyless entry on your car. Use a registered key fob and you’ll get instant access to your home without having to fumble around with a key. Some solutions, such as the Kwikset Kevo system, allow you to simply tap a registered smartphone to gain access.

Smart locks are simple to install with a Des Moines handyman or during a larger whole home renovation project. In terms of security, they’re just as good as traditional locks, and you’ll come to rely on the convenience every day.

Smart Features Could Complement a Beautiful Home Renovation

Smart home features work best when they’re out of focus. Technology can improve your home by making it more convenient or more secure, but it can also become a distraction if you don’t choose your devices carefully.

Even the best smart devices won’t cover for a home that is outdated, impractical, or run down. Whole home renovation is your chance to build your dream home, without compromises.

If it’s time to modernize your living spaces with new finishes and materials, you’ll need to talk to the best Des Moines Contractors. HomeWorx Iowa is your partner for renovations big and small. Contact us today and we’ll help you create your best home yet.