Try These Easy-Install Smart Home Devices

by Bill and Aby Brooks, REALTORS® 12/18/2022

Adding smart home technology doesn’t have to be a complicated task. No matter your tech skill level, there is an upgrade project for your home that you can install on your own. If you’re wanting to add some smart technology to your home without the hassle, here are some easy-install ideas:

Smart Speakers

If you’re wanting to invest in some easy-to-install smart home technology, a voice-activated smart speaker is a perfect place to start. These devices connect to your other smart devices like thermostats or security hubs so that you can control them with a simple command. Smart speakers are also great for entertaining and for enjoying your favorite media. If you get a phone call and aren’t near the remote, you can tell your smart speaker to pause or mute your TV. You can request your favorite song while cooking dinner and do all kinds of other convenient and fun things with a simple setup.

Smart Bulbs & Dimmers

Smart bulbs and dimmers come with a plethora of helpful features and are easy to install. For example, you can adjust the lighting with a smartphone app or with a central hub device. Set timers for automatically turning off or changing light conditions from anywhere in the home. You can also program smart bulbs to turn off automatically when somebody leaves the room—no more forgotten light switches. Even when away from home, you can control the lights at home, making it safer and more convenient.

Simple Home Security

There are two types of smart home security that are easy to set up yourself: smart locks and video cameras. Changing the locks on your doors might not be allowed if you’re renting and depending on the door hardware, it might take a bit of effort to do. However, there are smart lock options that work with the existing hardware to make it much simpler. This smart technology lets you change the locks and keys to the entire house without replacing the hardware.

Simple video cameras with paired monitors are some of the easiest self-install technology you can add to your home. You can record footage and check in live to see what’s going on outside your door. You can spot delivery people and any dropped-off packages as well as potentially nefarious characters who might pose a threat to your home security.

These are just a few options for smart home technology you can install on your own. However, if you feel overwhelmed, there’s no shame in hiring a professional to help you get the most out of your new tech.

About the Author

Bill and Aby Brooks, REALTORS®

Aby’s understanding of excellent customer service stems from her extensive professional background. Prior to earning her real estate license in 2005, along with her college degree that focuses on business and engineering, Aby was the head of purchasing, inventory and quality assurance for an OEM medical and aerospace manufacturing company. Known by her clients and fellow realtors for her tenacity, honesty, integrity, and attention to detail, as a full-time realtor, she is also appreciated for her quick response to her client’s needs. Aby has been an avid horse rider and owner since the age of eight, with her husband Billas a local firefighter/EMT they are very active within the community. Bill served as a US Army Airborne Ranger in 75th Ranger Regiment, he is a combat-wounded veteran who was awarded a Purple Heart. Bill's background as facility Manager for an International metals company and as a firefighter/EMT gives him the experience, attention to detail and the desire to go above and beyond to serve his customers. The Brooks' serve on the board of a local non-profit (501c3) that gives back to the veterans, first responders and their families. The Brooks family resides on their small ranch in Manatee County. Aby& Bill excel in all types of real estate and their passion is helping people. “We genuinely like people, growing up in Sarasota and Manatee counties and now raising our own family here, it is an absolute pleasure to share our growing area with newcomers and reminisce with longtime residents. Our area has so much to offer and it is our business to help folks buy and sell their own piece of paradise.”