Living in a smart home is no longer a futuristic fantasy. Today, there are countless smart devices on the market with a variety of functions that help you save time and money. From smart speakers to update you on the news every morning to smart thermostats that allow you to warm up your home from your phone, there is a smart gadget for practically every need.
These devices are endlessly useful, and now that they’ve become more commonplace, there are more budget options on the market. Here are a few devices you might need to turn your house into your dream smart home, and how to stay frugal while you’re shopping, presented to you today by Leading Vegas Realty.
Speaker
Smart speakers are basically mini personal assistants. Your smart speaker can give you the weather report and the latest headlines, play your favorite songs, answer your random questions, and control your other smart devices, simply by responding to your voice requests.
The Amazon Echo, featuring the famous Alexa voice, is one of the most popular models, but it’s also a bit pricey. For a more affordable device with similar capabilities, choose an Amazon Echo Dot or Google Home Mini. They are smaller than the original Echo, but they’re just as useful. Plus, their size makes them easier to disguise in your decor. You can arrange your mini speaker so that it blends in with small potted plants and doesn’t affect the aesthetic of your kitchen or living room. All of these models are occasionally offered on sale, so waiting for the right time to buy can help you save even more.
Security
A smart doorbell can provide peace of mind when you’re out of the house. Smart doorbells will notify the homeowner via their smartphone when there’s someone at the door, and they also stream and record video so that you can check who it is. Many homeowners opt to install Ring smart doorbells. As an added layer of security, consider also installing a smart keypad. This eliminates the need for a key, and can reduce the chances of your locks being picked. These numeric pads require that you know the combination before allowing you inside.
Save Energy
A smart thermostat will cost you up front, but in the long run, it can definitely help you save on your energy bills, which is why these devices are fantastic for budget-conscious homeowners. Your smart thermostat allows you to control your home’s temperature through the Internet or your smartphone, and it can automatically adjust the temperature when you’re away, resulting in lower utility costs.
The Ecobee Smart Thermostat is a highly-rated product, but it costs a pretty penny. Instead, 9 to 5 Toys suggests installing the Momentum Meri Smart Thermostat, a solid budget option that offers a wide range of features for just under $100.
You can also save on energy costs by installing smart appliances, which allow you to monitor their temperature and usage from your smartphone. By ordering online rather than buying them in a store, you might be able to apply promo codes or earn extra cash back on your purchase.
Smart Light Bulbs
With smart light bulbs, you can turn your lights on and off through your smartphone, and even adjust their hue and brightness. However, colorful lights might be too garish or flashy for your home. If you want a more subtle option that doesn’t clash with your decor, go for white lights instead. Wyze Bulbs will generally run you less than $10 – you can control them through an app on your phone, or through voice controls with some smart speakers.
Smart homes are the future – and even if you’re working with a tight budget, you can still install these smart accessories around your house to make your life easier. By seeking out deals and applying promos, you’ll have your home outfitted with the latest helpful gadgets in no time.
Throughout the home-selling or home-buying process, Leading Vegas Realty will be there every step of the way. Call LVR today at 702-545-6050 or send your inquiry through LVR website.
Bret Engle | DiyGuys.net, Writer
