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Buyers are Smart and Want Their Homes the Same
When it’s time to put your home on the market, you should know who’s buying. Today that’s Millennials. This demographic, which is typically considered to have been born between 1980 and 2000, make up more than one-third of the buying market. The Millennial Generation is the first to have grown up with unlimited access to technology, and they expect that technology to be present when looking at new homes. What this means for sellers is that a few visible smart upgrades, particularly in the areas of convenience and security, may lead to more offers and a fatter check at closing. Use this advice from Castle Brokerage to steer you in the right technological direction.
Smart security and the home buying process
The days of deciding where to live based solely on bedroom and bathroom count are over. Buyers have no problems skipping over a larger property for one that’s designed with them in mind. Almost overwhelmingly, this means having smart functions in place that allow them to control the home from afar, and to monitor its safety and security around the clock.
Motion-controlled outdoor lighting is an essential aspect of today’s smart home. According to Vernon Daniel Associates, good exterior lighting offers a host of benefits, including improving the appearance of a property and making it less inviting to criminals. Another important improvement is outdoor security cameras that connect to the homeowner’s smart device. If you’re in the market to sell, having these installed will make your home stand out. Not all surveillance cameras are the same, however, and you’ll need to do your research to get the best value and functionality.
Millennial homebuyers may also be excited to see simple and inexpensive additions like motion detectors that notify you when a window or door has been opened or a smart video doorbell that lets you see who is at your door no matter where you are. Considering that more than nine in 10 people in this demographic owns a smartphone, it makes sense that they would desire home features that allow them to connect with the technology they already possess and are comfortable with. It’s important to note, however, that, according to the Pew Research Center, Gen Xers and Baby Boomers don’t lag far behind Millennials when it comes to technology usage.
A pre-installed home security system that monitors for potential intrusion, smoke, and other aspects of home security will also add value to your property.
It’s not just connectivity
As important as technology is to home security, it’s not the only factor to consider as you prepare your home for the MLS. Take the time to look at each area with fresh eyes as if you were the buyer. It may be helpful to visit a few open houses to see how you react to similar features found in your own property.
You will likely find that landscaping would be a factor in your decision to buy or to keep looking. A well-manicured lawn void of shrubbery overgrowth makes it more difficult for criminals to find a hiding spot. Something else you may notice is whether the doors feel substantial. Hollow interior and exterior doors are easier to break and may not provide any protection in case of fire. Homes.com’s infographic of what to look for when buying a home can help you evaluate your own property.
While your home’s layout and location are definite influencers, small nuances can certainly affect its price and overall appeal. Keep in mind that, in addition to technology and exceptional home security, your property will also need to be clean, well-maintained, and readily available to view. Be sure to work with a licensed, local real estate broker from Castle Brokerage who will help you understand how to best outfit your property to maximize profits and minimize market time.