Selling a smart home requires attention to detail for a seamless transaction. To provide a more comprehensive understanding, let’s delve into the steps you should follow:
1. Itemize What is Included in the Sale:
• Smart thermostats
• Smart lighting systems
• Video doorbells
• Smart locks
• Security cameras
• Smart speakers (e.g., Amazon Echo, Google Home)
• Smart appliances (e.g., refrigerator, oven)
• Home automation hubs or controllers (e.g., SmartThings, Apple HomeKit)
• Take note of which of these devices will be included in the sale, and, equally important, specify what’s going.
2. Reset and Prepare Smart Devices:
• To ensure the new owner’s privacy, especially for devices connected to the internet or personal accounts, such as smart cameras or thermostats, it is crucial to reset them to factory settings. Typically, this process involves removing them from your account and deleting any stored data.
• During the final walk-through, it’s helpful to incorporate instructions on setting up and using these devices, particularly if the buyer is unfamiliar with them.
3. Offer Documentation:
• Leave all manuals, user guides, and warranties for the smart devices for the buyer. Consequently, this will assist the buyer in understanding how to operate and maintain these systems.
• Additionally, furnish information about any ongoing service contracts with smart devices.
4. Include Technology in Marketing:
• Collaborate with your real estate agent to emphasize smart home features in your marketing materials. Highlighting these can make your home more appealing and perhaps justify a higher selling price.
• Have your Realtor include smart home features, convenience, and energy-saving aspects in all marketing.
Additional Tips:
• Have your Realtor highlight the benefits of a smart home, such as security, energy savings, and convenience.
• It’s important to be honest; therefore, you should disclose any known issues with your smart devices.
