People have a lot of different ideas on how they want their home to look.
Some want a modern look while others like traditional cottages. But one
thing that more and more people want is smart technology in their homes.
This adds value and desirability to your home making it easier to sell
for the asking price.

In a recent survey, 35% of first time home buyers put smart technology
as a priority in their home purchase.

What is a smart home? A smart home is a residence that uses
internet-connected devices to enable the remote monitoring and
management of appliances and systems, such as lighting and heating.

Smart thermostat – Is a thermostat that can be
controlled remotely by your smart phone and will eventually learn your
heating and cooling patterns. You can turn up the A/C in the summer from
your office and the house will be cool by the time you get home. These
features are convenient but they also help you save money on home heating
and cooling costs.

Connected Lights – allow you to turn on or dim lights at
different times of the day. Combined with a Smart thermostat they can help
you to save half your average energy costs.

Smart Locks – these are really cool ! You can program
your front door to unlock when guests arrive using Bluetooth or WiFi or
some smart phones.

Wireless Security – We have all seen photos of burglars
stealing packages from the front door of a home , or perhaps you have seen
the TV ad of the lady at the spa who can see 2 unsavory looking guys at her
front door and speaking to them and scaring them off. You may have seen the
YouTube video of a house that caught fire in Ft. MacMurray and the firefighters
extinguishing the blaze. The home owners were able to watch this from a hotel
room in Edmonton. Check with your insurance company, you may qualify for a
large discount in your rates by having this home security.

Finally, not only is your home more desirable and comfortable, but this is
achievable in both new and existing homes. Speak to your Dominion Lending
Centres mortgage broker about having these additions to your home added to
your mortgage either with a Purchase/Refinance Plus Improvements or a HELOC.
They can advise you on the best options for your particular needs.