How well-connected is your new home?

There are many ways in which technology can make our lives easier, more efficient and more enjoyable. When buying a new home, the promise of the latest in home technology can be a big draw and lead many to assume it will only add value to your home. However the development of new technology also moves at an electric pace — so how do you ensure your home tech isn’t out of date within a couple of years? Technology also sometimes leads to hidden maintenance costs, so you need to make sure it is not going to inadvertently cost you money.

Home tech comes in two distinct forms: hard-wired and wi-fi. Hardwired tech works well for systems like music or heating, both of which will be popular additions to our homes for years to come.

With new homes, infrastructure is important. Check the wiring is up to date — category six is vital, to ensure flexibility for future adjustments, if needed.

For example, the new Ethan Drive development we are selling in Finchley, north London, is hard-wired with an integrated audio system that can be controlled by Apple or android devices, Flexibly planned tech is an asset at Ethan Drive (above) and Waterfall Road (right). Agent, Martyn Gerrard

as well as an HD distribution Sonos Audio system throughout the main rooms and full Sonos 5.1 surround sound in the lounge room.

The homes are also hard-wired to connect to all major TV network suppliers and enable mounted flat-screen

televisions, as well as door and video gate entry.

Wi-fi-enabled tech has improved greatly over the years and is now considered by many to be one of the best choices, as it gives you, the owner, and any future buyers, ultimate flexibility.

If the new buyers do not want it, you can just take it with you.

The new Waterfall Road scheme currently on the market with us, for instance, has LightwaveRF Wi-Fi connected sockets in both kitchen and family rooms, with wi-fi boosters on every floor and smart wi-fi connected exterior lights.

Another oft-forgotten area of tech is environmental — such as heat source pumps, whole-house ventilation systems and heat recovery systems. This is an integral aspect of all new-builds, which have to meet sustainability standards.

While environmental tech might not initially seem like a deciding factor in a purchase, the energy efficiency means your ongoing maintenance and utility costs will be considerably less and, as time goes on, this will start to add value. Environmental technology, such as that fitted at Ethan Drive and Waterfall Road, is designed to give excellent performance and efficiency.

Simon Gerrard is managing director of Martyn Gerrard, martyngerrard.co.uk