5 Cost-Effective Ways to Make Your Home Smart

Home automation is an obvious choice in a world of smartphones and widespread internet connectivity. However, for new homebuyers in New Orleans, the additional costs of building a smart home may be outside their budget. These upgrades usually range between $2,000 and $6,000 — however, it's possible to make your home smart for much less, and the great thing about these add-ons, most homeowners instantly see a fast return on investment.

If you've recently moved to the Big Easy and are interested in creating the smart home of your dreams, consider these five cost-effective features.

1. Video Doorbell

Online shopping and food delivery have become the norm in recent years. Whether you're expecting clothes, groceries or pizza, your doorbell is bound to ring at least a few times weekly. Whatever you're waiting for, a video doorbell is an excellent way to ensure your deliveries arrive safely.

A video doorbell is an innovative feature that shows you who's standing on the other side of the door. Depending on the product, video doorbells can connect with existing doorbell wiring or enable you to start from scratch.

Video doorbell cameras connect to devices over Wi-Fi and turn on when someone approaches the door or pushes the button. If you're home, you'll hear it — otherwise, the doorbell will send a signal to your smartphone, tablet or computer from any location.

New smart video doorbells may also come with motion detection, recording and video storage and the ability to communicate with whoever's at the door through a speaker. You can purchase most video doorbells for under $150, while advanced models typically run about $200

2. Smart Security System

A smart security system pairs with other innovative home features, including alarms, door locks, garage doors, thermostats, lights and plugs. You can also connect your system to your smartphone for remote control access, meaning you'll never have to worry about your home and belongings again while on vacation.

  Popular alarm companies like ADT offer smart alarm compatibility for a higher cost. Meanwhile, alarm brands like Vivint Home Security — a smart home company — charge $600 for the system and between $49 and $199 for installation. Customers typically spend $30 to $50 per month for Vivint monitoring.

3. Smart Locks

Smart locks with keyless entry have numerous advantages for protecting your home. Consider installing a smart lock on the front and back doors to ensure your home is always tightly secure.

With a smart lock, you can enter a passcode or unlock the door using your smartphone. Suppose a trusted friend or relative wants to drop something off at your house while you're at work. A quick press of a button in your smart home app will unlock the front door for them to enter. It’s also practical if your child comes home from school and forgets the code or you forget to lock up before you leave.

Advanced technology for your garage can also allow you to monitor activity, and even program times to open and close the door based on when you leave and return from work. You can purchase smart locks for around $50 — although some could cost upward of $2,200 depending on their features and functionality.

4. Smart Thermostat

New Orleans is known for Mardis Gras, delicious Creole cuisine, and hot, steamy summers. Fortunately, a smart thermostat will ensure your home's temperature is comfortable year-round without costing you more to run the air conditioner.

Smart thermostats may cost between $200 to $500, depending on your current setup, your chosen brand and installation. However, savings are worth the investment. An ENERGY STAR smart thermostat can reduce your energy consumption by 8% and save you nearly $50 annually on heating and cooling, which adds up over the years.

In addition to remote indoor temperature management with your smartphone, smart thermostats allow you to program your HVAC for when you're home or based on each room's occupancy. Many also come with built-in learning functions to learn your preferences over time.

5. Smart Bulbs

Smart bulbs are lights you can control remotely over Wi-Fi. Upgrading to automated light bulbs is one of the most cost-effective ways to make your home smart without going over budget. You can fill your entire home with new lighting at a reasonable price, from lamps to wall outlets to outdoor spotlights.

It could also improve your home's safety while you're away. For example, if you go away for a long weekend or stay out past dark, you can turn on the lights from your smart home app to make it look like someone's home. Some even come with color-changing functions. Most brands charge only $15 per bulb, while a smart light switch could cost about $30 — an excellent way to save money for home automation.

Make Your Home Smart on a Budget

You can enjoy the convenience and savings of home automation without spending thousands of dollars on innovative home features. For homebuyers and homeowners in New Orleans, cost-effective smart technology can enhance their home's comfort and safety.

*Written by Rose Morrisdo of renovated.com