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Tag: Smart Home Tech

  • 18 Home Safety Tips Every Homeowner Should Know

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    Moving from an apartment to a house has its perks, from having more living space to finally being able to enjoy a lawn. However, it’s understandable if you feel a bit frightened by the possibility of intruders or other safety issues. After all, unlike apartments, which typically have their own safety measures in place, a new home is often a blank slate. The good news is that there are plenty of steps you can take to make your home safer. 

    Whether you’re moving into a home in San Francisco or a house in Dallas, the key to feeling safer is planning ahead and taking home safety into your own hands. We’ve put together a list of home safety tips you should know, covering everything from security to fire prevention and childproofing.

    Home safety tips to maximize security

    Vigilance is the name of the game when it comes to home security. There are plenty of simple steps you can take, along with affordable tools and smart devices to help you monitor your property and deter intruders.

    1. Invest in a home security system

    According to a recent study, a burglar strikes every 41 seconds in the US, adding up to more than a burglary per minute and over 2,000 burglaries per day. A home security system may be one of the best investments you can make when it comes to protecting yourself and your home. These can act as deterrents since burglars are less likely to target a home if they know a security system is installed. 

    2. Install more lights to increase visibility around your home

    In addition to a security system, motion-detecting lights are a great way to deter potential burglars or other intruders. The sensor can pick up anyone who approaches your home and illuminate them in the spotlight. Install these lights near each entry point of your home for an inexpensive and effective way to feel more protected. 

    3. Upgrade to a smart doorbell

    A smart doorbell is a Wi-Fi-enabled intercom system that connects to your phone and provides a live video feed of your front door. Having a smart doorbell can help prevent package theft and let you see who’s at the door before opening it. It’s a small upgrade that offers big peace of mind.

    4. Secure your home with smart locks

    Smart locks are Wi-Fi or Bluetooth-enabled smart home devices that allow you to lock and unlock doors with the tap of a finger or a simple voice command. They eliminate the risk of lost or stolen keys and make it easy to control access to your home.

    5. Get to know your neighbors 

    You don’t have to become best friends with your neighbors, but taking the time to introduce yourself and become acquaintances can be valuable and can offer you an extra line of defense from intruders. Neighbors can alert you if they notice suspicious activity or unexpected visitors.

    6. Close curtains and blinds at night  

    Once the sun goes down and you turn your interior lights on, it’s very easy for others to see inside your home and difficult for you to see them. To ensure others aren’t spying on you, make it a habit to close your curtains and blinds every evening for added home safety. Intruders will often observe homes before planning a break-in, looking for signs that a home is empty. Invest in some high-quality blinds, if you don’t already have some, to provide you with more security. 

    7. Buy a security door 

    A security door adds another layer of safety to your home’s entrance. A security door acts as another barrier between your front door and front porch. They have their own lock and are usually made of a metal screen and thick glass, allowing you to see and hear the person outside without allowing them access to your home. These doors offer another level of home safety and security and act as a deterrent to potential intruders. 

    8. Reinforce your windows to prevent break-ins

    If all other areas of your home are locked and secure, an intruder might target your windows as a last resort. Glass can be easy to break, which is why windows are considered one of the weakest points when it comes to home security. If you want to strengthen your windows and increase the time it would take for someone to break them, invest in window security film, which is placed over your windows to keep glass from shattering in the event of a break-in attempt. This can buy you time to react and call for help if you hear someone struggling to break in.

    9. Secure tools and ladders

    The last thing you want to do is make an intruder’s job easier. Store all tools, ladders, and equipment in a locked garage or shed so they can’t be used to break windows or access upper floors.

    10. Take extra steps to secure sliding doors

    Sliding glass doors are beautiful but can be vulnerable. Add a security bar, door sensor, or multi-pane glass to strengthen them and make forced entry more difficult.

    Fire prevention and safety tips

    A house fire is one of a homeowner’s worst nightmares, but taking the right steps beforehand can mitigate the damage or prevent fires entirely.

    11. Regularly test smoke detectors

    Smoke detectors are a crucial line of defense when it comes to fire safety, as they can alert you to small fires before they spread. Make sure you test them monthly and replace the batteries every 6 to 12 months.

    12. Have an escape plan

    In any emergency, the last thing you want to do is panic, and having an established escape plan is an excellent way to ensure a quick and organized evacuation when you need to exit your home urgently. Make sure everyone who lives with you knows the escape plan, and practice regularly.

    13. Practice safe habits in the kitchen

    Almost half of all house fires start in the kitchen, so making sure you practice proper safety techniques there will significantly reduce the risk of one occurring. Keep towels, paper products, and curtains away from heat sources, and never leave cooking unattended.

    14. Keep flammable items away from heaters

    As winter approaches and you dust off your home heating system, make sure you take proper safety precautions to prevent fires. Flammable items near vents and space heaters can ignite, so make it a point to clear the area around them.

    Home safety tips for childproofing your house

    15. Secure hazardous materials

    Kids have a way of getting their hands on things when they’re not supposed to. Store harmful chemicals, cleaning products, and medications in locked cabinets or on high shelves.

    16. Cover electrical outlets

    Simply covering all the outlets in your home is a great way to keep kids safe. Cover any outlets that are accessible to small children to prevent electrocution.

    General maintenance tips

    Home maintenance might not be the first thing that enters your mind when it comes to home safety, but a well-maintained home can go a long way towards keeping you safe. Fixing small issues early can prevent accidents and bigger problems later.

    17. Inspect your home regularly

    Keep an eye out for anything out of the ordinary around your home. Any unusual sights or sounds might be a sign of an underlying issue that threatens your home’s safety. Check locks on doors and windows to see if they work properly. Make sure older appliances don’t pose a fire risk, and address potential leaks or foundation issues promptly before they lead to bigger issues down the road.

    18. Make sure your home’s exterior is well-maintained

    In addition to improving your house’s curb appeal, seemingly mundane tasks like mowing your lawn regularly, landscaping, and painting your home’s exterior can also make it safer. Thieves target houses that look run-down or poorly maintained, so going the extra mile to keep your place looking nice might make them think again.

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    Chibuzo Ezeokeke

    Source link

  • 18 Home Safety Tips Every Homeowner Should Know

    [ad_1]

    Moving from an apartment to a house has its perks, from having more living space to finally being able to enjoy a lawn. However, it’s understandable if you feel a bit frightened by the possibility of intruders or other safety issues. After all, unlike apartments, which typically have their own safety measures in place, a new home is often a blank slate. The good news is that there are plenty of steps you can take to make your home safer. 

    Whether you’re moving into a home in San Francisco or a house in Dallas, the key to feeling safer is planning ahead and taking home safety into your own hands. We’ve put together a list of home safety tips you should know, covering everything from security to fire prevention and childproofing.

    Home safety tips to maximize security

    Vigilance is the name of the game when it comes to home security. There are plenty of simple steps you can take, along with affordable tools and smart devices to help you monitor your property and deter intruders.

    1. Invest in a home security system

    According to a recent study, a burglar strikes every 41 seconds in the US, adding up to more than a burglary per minute and over 2,000 burglaries per day. A home security system may be one of the best investments you can make when it comes to protecting yourself and your home. These can act as deterrents since burglars are less likely to target a home if they know a security system is installed. 

    2. Install more lights to increase visibility around your home

    In addition to a security system, motion-detecting lights are a great way to deter potential burglars or other intruders. The sensor can pick up anyone who approaches your home and illuminate them in the spotlight. Install these lights near each entry point of your home for an inexpensive and effective way to feel more protected. 

    3. Upgrade to a smart doorbell

    A smart doorbell is a Wi-Fi-enabled intercom system that connects to your phone and provides a live video feed of your front door. Having a smart doorbell can help prevent package theft and let you see who’s at the door before opening it. It’s a small upgrade that offers big peace of mind.

    4. Secure your home with smart locks

    Smart locks are Wi-Fi or Bluetooth-enabled smart home devices that allow you to lock and unlock doors with the tap of a finger or a simple voice command. They eliminate the risk of lost or stolen keys and make it easy to control access to your home.

    5. Get to know your neighbors 

    You don’t have to become best friends with your neighbors, but taking the time to introduce yourself and become acquaintances can be valuable and can offer you an extra line of defense from intruders. Neighbors can alert you if they notice suspicious activity or unexpected visitors.

    6. Close curtains and blinds at night  

    Once the sun goes down and you turn your interior lights on, it’s very easy for others to see inside your home and difficult for you to see them. To ensure others aren’t spying on you, make it a habit to close your curtains and blinds every evening for added home safety. Intruders will often observe homes before planning a break-in, looking for signs that a home is empty. Invest in some high-quality blinds, if you don’t already have some, to provide you with more security. 

    7. Buy a security door 

    A security door adds another layer of safety to your home’s entrance. A security door acts as another barrier between your front door and front porch. They have their own lock and are usually made of a metal screen and thick glass, allowing you to see and hear the person outside without allowing them access to your home. These doors offer another level of home safety and security and act as a deterrent to potential intruders. 

    8. Reinforce your windows to prevent break-ins

    If all other areas of your home are locked and secure, an intruder might target your windows as a last resort. Glass can be easy to break, which is why windows are considered one of the weakest points when it comes to home security. If you want to strengthen your windows and increase the time it would take for someone to break them, invest in window security film, which is placed over your windows to keep glass from shattering in the event of a break-in attempt. This can buy you time to react and call for help if you hear someone struggling to break in.

    9. Secure tools and ladders

    The last thing you want to do is make an intruder’s job easier. Store all tools, ladders, and equipment in a locked garage or shed so they can’t be used to break windows or access upper floors.

    10. Take extra steps to secure sliding doors

    Sliding glass doors are beautiful but can be vulnerable. Add a security bar, door sensor, or multi-pane glass to strengthen them and make forced entry more difficult.

    Fire prevention and safety tips

    A house fire is one of a homeowner’s worst nightmares, but taking the right steps beforehand can mitigate the damage or prevent fires entirely.

    11. Regularly test smoke detectors

    Smoke detectors are a crucial line of defense when it comes to fire safety, as they can alert you to small fires before they spread. Make sure you test them monthly and replace the batteries every 6 to 12 months.

    12. Have an escape plan

    In any emergency, the last thing you want to do is panic, and having an established escape plan is an excellent way to ensure a quick and organized evacuation when you need to exit your home urgently. Make sure everyone who lives with you knows the escape plan, and practice regularly.

    13. Practice safe habits in the kitchen

    Almost half of all house fires start in the kitchen, so making sure you practice proper safety techniques there will significantly reduce the risk of one occurring. Keep towels, paper products, and curtains away from heat sources, and never leave cooking unattended.

    14. Keep flammable items away from heaters

    As winter approaches and you dust off your home heating system, make sure you take proper safety precautions to prevent fires. Flammable items near vents and space heaters can ignite, so make it a point to clear the area around them.

    Home safety tips for childproofing your house

    15. Secure hazardous materials

    Kids have a way of getting their hands on things when they’re not supposed to. Store harmful chemicals, cleaning products, and medications in locked cabinets or on high shelves.

    16. Cover electrical outlets

    Simply covering all the outlets in your home is a great way to keep kids safe. Cover any outlets that are accessible to small children to prevent electrocution.

    General maintenance tips to keep your home safe

    Home maintenance might not be the first thing that enters your mind when it comes to home safety, but a well-maintained home can go a long way towards keeping you safe. Fixing small issues early can prevent accidents and bigger problems later.

    17. Inspect your home regularly

    Keep an eye out for anything out of the ordinary around your home. Any unusual sights or sounds might be a sign of an underlying issue that threatens your home’s safety. Check locks on doors and windows to see if they work properly. Make sure older appliances don’t pose a fire risk, and address potential leaks or foundation issues promptly before they lead to bigger issues down the road.

    18. Make sure your home’s exterior is well-maintained

    In addition to improving your house’s curb appeal, seemingly mundane tasks like mowing your lawn regularly, landscaping, and painting your home’s exterior can also make it safer. Thieves target houses that look run-down or poorly maintained, so going the extra mile to keep your place looking nice might make them think again.

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    Chibuzo Ezeokeke

    Source link

  • Does Smart Home Increase Home Value? What Every Seller Should Know

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    Smart home technology is no longer a futuristic concept but a present-day reality. From automated lighting to smart thermostats, these home automation technologies promise convenience and efficiency. But as a homeowner, you might be wondering: Does investing in smart home features actually increase your home’s value?

    The answer is yes. As you look to sell your home in Bismarck or Albuquerque, this Redfin real estate article, we’ll dive into what buyers are looking for and which smart upgrades truly make a difference to help you sell your home.

    What is home automation?

    Home automation integrates various devices and systems that can be controlled remotely or automatically. This includes:

    • Smart thermostats
    • Lighting
    • Security cameras
    • Door locks
    • Appliances

    All home automation products share common goals: to enhance comfort, security, and energy efficiency through the use of technology. With home automation and smart home gadgets, you can stay connected to your home no matter where you are. As NKBA | KBIS CEO, Bill Darcy, said said, “People aren’t looking for gimmicks. They want practical solutions that make everyday living easier, more efficient, and more connected.”

    Who does home automation target?

    The appeal of home automation extends across various demographics, though some groups show a higher preference for adopting smart home technology. Market.us Scoop states that among the different generations, “Millennials show the highest interest in smart home technology.

    With 47% of them having installed at least one smart device in their homes. Gen Xers follow with 33% ownership of smart home devices. While individuals aged 55 and older show lower interest, with only 24% owning such devices.” 

    The appeal of smart home technology to buyers

    Today’s homebuyers are increasingly tech-savvy, and many are looking for homes that offer modern conveniences. If you’re asking, “Does smart home increase home value?” the answer is a resounding “yes.” Smart home features often translate to:

    • Convenience: The ability to control various aspects of a home with a smartphone or voice commands is a major selling point. Imagine adjusting the thermostat before you even arrive home or turning off all the lights with a single tap.
    • Energy efficiency: Smart thermostats and lighting systems can lead to noticeable savings on utility bills, a benefit that resonates with environmentally conscious buyers and those looking to reduce ongoing costs.
    • Enhanced security: Smart security systems, including video doorbells, smart locks, and connected cameras, offer peace of mind and are highly valued by many prospective homeowners.
    • Modern appeal: A home equipped with smart technology often feels more modern and updated, which can set it apart in a competitive market.

    Which smart home upgrades add the most value?

    Research from smart home company Vivint states, “Over a quarter of Americans (28%) were willing to pay extra for a smart home, with an average additional spend of $18,056. This marked a notable increase from a previous study, where only 10% of Americans had been willing to go over budget by an average of $15,323.Additionally, 1 in 4 believed that smart homes would become the norm within the next five years, while 62% said smart features had the potential to increase a home’s resale value. Nearly 1 in 10 Americans had plans to move into a smart home within the next year, and 59% already lived in one. Millennials were the most likely to live in a smart home (63%).” 

    With the rise of home automation preferences, it’s important to make the right choices. While all smart home features offer some level of convenience, certain upgrades tend to have a greater impact on home value:

    • Smart thermostats: Devices like Nest or Ecobee are highly sought after. They offer energy savings and the convenience of remote control, making them a practical and appealing upgrade.
    • Smart security systems: Integrated security systems, including smart locks, alarm systems, and video surveillance, are a big plus for buyers concerned about safety and property protection.
    • Smart lighting: While not as impactful as security or climate control, smart lighting systems that offer dimming, color changes, and automated schedules can add a touch of luxury and modern appeal.
    • Smart garage door openers: The ability to open and close your garage door remotely, or receive notifications if it’s left open, is a small but appreciated convenience.
    • Smart appliances: While more of a luxury, smart refrigerators, ovens, and washing machines can be attractive to certain buyers, especially in higher-end homes.

    Considerations for maximizing value

    To ensure your smart home investments pay off, keep these points in mind:

    • Integration and compatibility: Buyers appreciate systems that work seamlessly together. A collection of devices from different brands might be less appealing than a cohesive smart home ecosystem.
    • Ease of use: The technology should be intuitive and easy for a new homeowner to understand and operate. Overly complex systems can be a deterrent.
    • Target your audience: Consider the typical buyer in your area. What smart features are most important to them? In some markets, basic smart features might be enough, while in others, more advanced integrations could be expected.
    • Professional installation: For more complex systems, professional installation can ensure everything works correctly and looks tidy, adding to the perceived value.

    The bottom line about smart home tech and home value

    While it’s difficult to put an exact dollar amount on the increase in home value from smart technology, it’s clear that these features are becoming increasingly important to homebuyers. Smart home upgrades can make your property more attractive, call for a higher asking price, and potentially help it sell faster. Focus on practical, energy-efficient, and security-enhancing technologies that offer real benefits, and you’ll be well on your way to a smarter, more valuable home.

    Frequently asked questions:

    Do all smart home devices increase home value?

    Not all smart home devices have the same impact. Focus on those that offer significant benefits in terms of energy efficiency, security, and convenience, as these tend to be most appealing to buyers.

    Should I install a smart home system before selling?

    If your home lacks modern features, adding key smart home elements like a smart thermostat or security system can make it more competitive. However, avoid over-investing in highly specialized or niche technologies that might not appeal to a broad range of buyers.

    Is smart home technology a passing fad?

    Smart home technology is continually evolving and becoming more integrated into daily life. While specific devices may change, the underlying desire for convenience, efficiency, and security through technology is here to stay.

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    Pablo Alvarez

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