Track2Realty Exclusive: Experience suggests there is an increasing inclination and though selectively but older unintelligent homes are giving way to their smarter versions. The advantages of smart home technology are changing the realty scene.
Nowadays, homes are becoming both tech savvy and intelligent. Today’s well heeled consumers are looking for more than four walls and players in real estate are increasingly being forced to make sure homes are the stuff that adds technology as the cutting edge.
The features that make a home smart refer to the system which ensures monitoring, control and operation of vital aspects of a home. Sobha Developers, for instance has launched Sobha Habitech, a smart home project in Whitefield. Company claims using a patented smart home automation technology, these homes are not just safe but also convenient.
“Owners can view people standing outside their door from anywhere including while at work or even miles away when one is on a vacation, through a Smartphone or touchpad. These homes can sense moods and customises the lighting, fans and AC. It even has video surveillance. Gas leak sensors that detect and intimate the owner on their smartphone, soft panic buttons (a great advantage especially for the elderly in case of an emergency) and an access control sensor that recognises the owners’ car and automatically opens the boom barriers at the parking lot are smart features on offer,” explains JC Sharma, MD, Sobha Developers.
There are others who are introducing home automation systems like mood lighting, TV controls and curtain controls that can be handled with a single remote. Of course, smart homes cost a little more than other homes because of the technology and gadgets that are integrated.
However, the value that such homes offer in terms of security and luxury is much higher. Industry analysts assert the cost-factor should be weighed against the various advantages provided and the cost of ownership over a period of time.
“There is no standard formula to say whether a smart home is expensive or not. It all depends on the type of equipment and system installed as well as how effectively the same are being used by the occupier. In certain cases, the ‘smartness’ of a home can be at a very basic level, the investment may be minimal and restricted to products such as Video Door phone or Access control. In other cases, the ‘smartness’ of the home can be at an advanced level where not only the security aspect is taken care of but the various installations for comfort and safety purposes can be monitored, managed and controlled. Effective usage and management of the smart-systems can drive down the cost of ownership and even recover the investment cost of such systems by conserving and optimising use of resources such as water, electricity, periodic-maintenance costs etc,” says H R Girish, CEO, Vakil Housing Development Corporation.
Next: Technology adding wings to Smart Homes
