In today’s real estate market, the lines between lifestyle and technology are quickly blurring. Homebuyers are not just shopping for a place to live.They are shopping for a living experience, and smart home technology is becoming a central part of that equation.
For investors in the fix-and-flip and ground-up construction space, smart tech upgrades offer a unique opportunity. These features can increase the appeal, marketability, and final sale price of a property, often with relatively modest investment. According to the National Association of Realtors, homes with smart features not only sell faster but can attract more competitive offers.
So which upgrades actually deliver ROI? Here are the top 10 smart home technologies that make sense for real estate investors looking to stand out in a competitive market.
1. Smart Thermostats
Smart thermostats like the Nest, ecobee, and Honeywell models are a favorite among budget-conscious and eco-conscious buyers alike. These devices learn a user’s schedule, automatically adjust to save energy, and allow remote control through smartphone apps.
In fix-and-flip projects, they provide a “wow” factor without requiring major system overhauls. In new construction, they integrate beautifully with HVAC systems for seamless functionality from day one.
Smart thermostats increase ROI by improving energy efficiency, reducing utility bills, and appealing to buyers who value cost savings and convenience. They often help properties stand out in MLS listings and during showings.
2. Video Doorbells
One of the simplest yet most effective tech upgrades, video doorbells offer immediate curb appeal and a sense of security. Models like Ring or Arlo allow homeowners to monitor deliveries, see who is at the door, and communicate remotely.
Buyers are increasingly prioritizing home security features, and this is a low-barrier upgrade that has become a top buyer request — particularly among millennial and GenZ homebuyers.
Adding a video doorbell increases ROI by boosting a property’s perceived safety and tech-savviness. It’s a simple, low-cost upgrade that enhances the first impression and adds value without significant expense.
3. Smart Locks
Today’s buyers appreciate convenience, and keyless entry is a strong value-add. Smart locks not only allow homeowners to unlock doors via app or keypad, but they can also set temporary codes — a major plus for short-term rental properties.
Fix-and-flip investors can use these during the project for contractor access, then pass on the benefits to buyers. In ground-up construction, including smart locks in a security system package adds sophistication.
Smartlocks improve ROI by offering security and flexibility, especially for rental-minded buyers or busy professionals. They also enhance the overall impression of a modern, upgraded home.
4. Smart Lighting Systems
Smart lighting goes beyond bulbs. Whole-room or whole-home lighting systems offer automation, dimming, mood settings, and voice control. These features enhance staging efforts for flippers and appeal to buyers who want energy efficiency and tech-forward functionality.
For ground-up construction, wiring smart lighting during the build avoids the complexity of retro fits and allows for centralized hubs or voice assistant integrations from the start.
These systems increase ROI by adding a sense of luxury, improving energy efficiency, and enabling impressive demonstrations during showings or virtual tours.
5. Leak and Moisture Detectors
While less glamorous than video doorbells or lighting systems, leak detectors play a critical role in protecting property. These small devices alert homeowners via smartphone when they sense leaks, moisture, or freezing temperatures.
These upgrades show prospective buyers that you’ve thought ahead about home maintenance and risk mitigation — a major bonus in older homes or properties with basements or second-floor laundry rooms.
Leak and moisture detectors boost ROI by preventing damage-related expenses and reassuring buyers that the home is protected from water-related issues.
6. Whole-Home Wi-Fi Systems
Today’s buyers assume that Wi-Fi will be strong and consistent in everyroom. Mesh Wi-Fi systems help eliminate dead zones, and including one can make all the smart tech you’ve added work better.
In new builds, running Ethernet cable or setting up Wi-Fi zones during construction can eliminate issues and create a seamless smart home experience.
Strong Wi-Fi coverage supports all other smart features, improving buyers atisfaction and enhancing the perceived value of the home.
7. Smart Garage Door Openers
Smart garage openers are not just about convenience. They increase security and peace of mind, especially in areas where package theft or unauthorized access is a concern. Buyers love knowing they can check orclose their garage from anywhere.
In fix-and-flips, this is an easy win. For new builds, including smart garage tech in a bundled smart security package helps elevate the entire home’s value.
This upgrade enhances ROI by improving home access and safety, especially for family-oriented buyers or commuters.
8. Smart Appliances
Smart ovens, fridges, and dishwashers are gaining traction, especially among higher-end buyers. While these don’t always produce direct ROI in lower-end flips, they do shine in luxury projects where buyers expect connected, cutting-edge kitchens.
Some investors use them as a differentiator in competitive markets, where staged homes with sleek appliances tend to leave stronger impressions.
Smart appliances increase ROI by creating a modern, tech-forward kitchen experience that aligns with buyer expectations in luxury or newer homes.
9. Smart Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Code-compliant and connected, these detectors are required in many jurisdictions for new builds, and they’re becoming increasingly expected in flips. Models like Nest Protect alert homeowners via phone, voice, and even light when there’s a problem.
More than just a safety measure, smart detectors give peace of mind and integrate into whole-home security ecosystems.
They improve ROI by showing buyers that safety has been prioritized and providing an upgraded feature that’s often overlooked but widely appreciated.
10. Smart Irrigation Systems
In drought-prone states like California, smart irrigation can save homeowners hundreds per year. These systems adjust watering schedules based on weather forecasts and moisture sensors, and they’re a perfect way to show environmental responsibility.
For ground-up builds, this is a natural addition if the home includes landscaping. In fix-and-flips, it adds curb appeal and energy-conscious functionality that can sway eco-minded buyers.
This feature boosts ROI by reducing ongoing maintenance costs, appealing to green-conscious buyers, and enhancing the property’s overall efficiency.
Smart Tech, Smarter Investments
Today’s buyers want more than bricks and mortar. They want homes that reflect their lifestyle, offer efficiency, and feel safe and convenient from day one. As a real estate investor, you can meet, and exceed, those expectations by selecting smart home upgrades that add genuine value.
Whether you're refreshing a dated home or building a new one from scratch, these tech features help your project stand out, sell faster, and close at a higher price point. Focus on practical, cost-effective upgrades that are easy for buyers to understand and appreciate.
If you're ready to finance your next smart home investment, Anchor Loans is here to help. We specialize in fix-and-flip and ground-up construction loans tailored to professional real estate investors. Let’s build something smarter together.
