Homebuilders plug into buyers’ tech needs

As Consumer Electronics Show attendees can attest, new smart home features are being introduced nearly every day. Bay Area homebuilders have been quick to adopt some of the latest and greatest innovations. For savvy buyers, home automation is a burgeoning factor and top-of-mind, especially when it comes to security, lighting and HVAC.

“All of the builders we work with research the latest technologies to incorporate into each new community,” says Kelly Krhoun, owner and president of Creative Design Group in San Ramon. Area builders often offer automation packages under creative brand names that may come standard or as upgrades.

Wiring

First things first, of course. Buyers who get in during the early stages of construction will have

an opportunity to ensure their homes are wired to accommodate their every technological need. And

even if you buy in later stages, you may find that your builder includes as standard much of the wiring today’s smart home features require. There are even homes equipped with Wi-Fi that

is on a par with what’s available in commercial buildings.

Security

Today’s builders are incorporating well-known home security brands into

new home developments. For example, some homes feature keyless entry systems which allow you to gain entry via either a keypad or your smartphone. Included is the capability to notify the homeowner anytime entry doors are utilized.

“A new condominium building we are working on in Walnut Creek is going to offer Ring doorbells at each unit, which is a pretty cool new feature,” notes Krhoun. Ring and its competitors provide video doorbells that allow you to see from your smartphone who is at your door.

Lighting

Lighting features are not only convenient, they can be a source of endless fascination to youngsters. Some of today’s homes allow you to dim and brighten lights via remote, voice control or smartphone. This allows you to save on energy and enhance security on evenings when you and your family end up arriving home later than usual.

HVAC

Smart thermostats are an established part of the Bay Area new home picture. The ability to control your home temperature using your smartphone allows you to be energyefficient and make your home more comfortable for unexpected guests, even if you can’t be at home to welcome them.

Living areas

Wall screens are no longer limited to TV and movie viewing.

“In tech rooms,” advises Krhoun, “multiple screens are displayed for the ultimate video game experience or to be used as a Skype station.”

Bathroom

Even the daily shower can be made more convenient with smart features. Some showers include digital temperature controls that may be preset to forestall the early morning shock that can derive from a cascade of too-hot or too-cold water. And you can enhance your shower

experience with digital music players that can be embedded in or attached to the showerhead.

Charging stations

Today’s builders are moving full speed ahead to make charging your devices more convenient than ever.

“As a model home interior design firm, we are moving away from the traditional built-in tech centers largely seen in lofts and dens,” states Krhoun. “In their place is a corner of the kitchen where smart devices can charge and kids can use their Chromebooks or iPads while their parents are … getting dinner ready. We are also incorporating furniture pieces in bedrooms and lofts with charging stations built in.”

Bay Area homeowners can rest assured that builders are keeping up with advances in home technology. As the pace of innovation continues unabated, it appears the future of home automation will only grow brighter.