Smart home technology in rental properties was a cool perk in the past few years. But, today it’s what tenants expect. In USA’s competitive rental market, automated features like smart thermostats and video doorbells are becoming standard. Tenants want convenience, security, and efficiency. And here’s the kicker: so do landlords.
Yes, adding smart tech to your rental will keep your tenants happy, but it is also about increasing property value, reducing operational costs, and making your investment work smarter, not harder.
That doesn’t mean you should turn your rental into a tech museum filled with every gadget on the market. Strategic upgrades are the way to go, and that’s where a savvy property manager comes in. According to Overland Properties, they can guide you on what’s actually worth the investment and help integrate smart home tech into your rental strategy.
What Tenants Really Want in a Smart Rental
Spoiler alert: It’s not a talking fridge.
Tenants want features that make their lives easier, safer, and more cost-efficient. Here’s what’s topping their wish lists:
Online Rent Payments
They don’t want to dig up a checkbook or drop off cash. They want to pay rent with a few taps on their phone. Online payments are faster, more secure, and give instant confirmation. If you’re not offering this yet, a property manager can set it up for you in no time.
Easy Maintenance Requests
No one wants to chase down a landlord at 10 p.m. because the sink is leaking. Tenants prefer submitting maintenance requests online, often with photos attached. It’s simple, efficient, and ensures problems get fixed fast. If you’re wondering how to implement this, a property manager already has the tools in place.
Smart Security Features
Keyless entry, video doorbells, and security cameras make tenants feel safe. They also make turnovers easier for landlords. No more lost keys or expensive rekeying. Just reset the codes, and you’re done. A property manager can help you choose and install the best system for your rental.
Setting a Budget for Smart Home Upgrades
Tech upgrades don’t have to drain your bank account. The key is balance. Smart investments pay off when done right. Here’s how to budget wisely:
Set a spending cap. Don’t go overboard. Choose upgrades that provide the most impact for the least cost.
Research cost-effective brands. Some brands offer bundles or discounts for multiple purchases.
Calculate potential ROI. Will a smart thermostat save on energy costs? Will a video doorbell attract higher-quality tenants? Property managers can help crunch these numbers.
Track your investment. Once installed, monitor how these upgrades affect rent, vacancy rates, and maintenance costs.
Not sure where to start? Cool Realty advises hiring a property manager who can handle the research, installation, and monitoring for you.
The Best Smart Home Tech for Rental Properties
Not all smart gadgets bring the same value. Some are game-changers; others are just gimmicks. Here are the top tech upgrades that make a real difference:
1. Smart Thermostats
A win-win. Tenants love controlling their home’s temperature from their phone. Owners love the energy savings, especially during vacancies. Smart thermostats can prevent pipes from freezing in winter and reduce unnecessary cooling in the summer.
2. Keyless Entry Systems
Goodbye, lost keys. Hello, smartphone access and unique entry codes. Tenants get convenience, and landlords get better security and easier turnovers. Plus, vendors and maintenance teams can access properties without the hassle of coordinating keys.
3. Smart Lighting
Automated lights save energy and enhance security. Tenants can schedule lights to turn on before they get home, or control them remotely. Some systems even adjust brightness based on natural light, keeping electricity bills lower.
4. Security Cameras & Video Doorbells
Safety sells. Tenants feel more secure with video monitoring at entry points. Property owners benefit, too because visible security features can deter break-ins. Just make sure to balance security with privacy to keep tenants comfortable.
5. Water Leak Detectors
Water damage is expensive. Smart leak detectors alert both landlords and tenants at the first sign of trouble, preventing costly repairs. They’re easy to install near water heaters, sinks, and appliances prone to leaks.
6. Smart Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors
These devices provide real-time alerts, even when no one’s home. They can send notifications to both tenants and landlords, ensuring quicker responses to potential hazards. Some models even offer voice alerts and interconnectivity with other alarms.
Bringing It All Together
Smart home technology is not a trend that will pass. It’s a smart investment. Tenants expect it, property values increase because of it, and operational costs shrink when you use it wisely. But choosing and managing the right tech can be overwhelming. That’s why having a property manager in your corner makes all the difference.
A good property manager knows which tech features will attract tenants and increase your ROI. They handle setup, maintenance, and monitoring, so you don’t have to worry about it.
Want to make your rental smarter (without making your life harder)? Talk to a property manager today and let them handle the details while you enjoy the benefits of a high-tech, high-value investment.
