Adding smart home technology doesn’t have to be a complicated task. No matter your tech skill level, there is an upgrade project for your home that you can install on your own. If you’re wanting to add some smart technology to your home without the hassle, here are some easy-install ideas:
If you’re wanting to invest in some easy-to-install smart home technology, a voice-activated smart speaker is a perfect place to start. These devices connect to your other smart devices like thermostats or security hubs so that you can control them with a simple command. Smart speakers are also great for entertaining and for enjoying your favorite media. If you get a phone call and aren’t near the remote, you can tell your smart speaker to pause or mute your TV. You can request your favorite song while cooking dinner and do all kinds of other convenient and fun things with a simple setup.
Smart bulbs and dimmers come with a plethora of helpful features and are easy to install. For example, you can adjust the lighting with a smartphone app or with a central hub device. Set timers for automatically turning off or changing light conditions from anywhere in the home. You can also program smart bulbs to turn off automatically when somebody leaves the room—no more forgotten light switches. Even when away from home, you can control the lights at home, making it safer and more convenient.
There are two types of smart home security that are easy to set up yourself: smart locks and video cameras. Changing the locks on your doors might not be allowed if you’re renting and depending on the door hardware, it might take a bit of effort to do. However, there are smart lock options that work with the existing hardware to make it much simpler. This smart technology lets you change the locks and keys to the entire house without replacing the hardware.
Simple video cameras with paired monitors are some of the easiest self-install technology you can add to your home. You can record footage and check in live to see what’s going on outside your door. You can spot delivery people and any dropped-off packages as well as potentially nefarious characters who might pose a threat to your home security.
These are just a few options for smart home technology you can install on your own. However, if you feel overwhelmed, there’s no shame in hiring a professional to help you get the most out of your new tech.
Kimberly Kelly decided to get her real estate license when she moved to South Orange with her family and fell in love with the classic, period homes of the area. Having worked in the city for many years for LexisNexis, Kim understands the appeal of an easy commute to NYC. That’s why she specializes in towns along the Mid-Town Direct train line, offering welcoming communities, good schools, and space to grow.
Very active in her children’s school PTA, Kim knows firsthand how important a school system is to parents looking to make the move to the ‘burbs. She volunteers with fairs, fundraising, and other activities that bolster support for education. Kim also believes involvement in the greater community enriches us all and has sat on various boards & associations throughout the years.
Kim Kelly has lived many places throughout her life, from Pennsylvania to Oregon, but has found New Jersey to be the ideal place to raise her family and put down roots. She loves nothing more than helping others discover their special place as well. Kim’s extensive knowledge of the area, combined with her sense of community, offers clients a personalized guide to finding the right house - and town - to call home.
