From $300K to $7M Homes | In Charge's Smart Home Evolution

About In Charge

In Charge, an Austin, Texas-based electrical services business, has been delivering quality residential installations since its founding in 2007. Initially focused on traditional electrical work, including pre-wires, basic security systems, and media room installations, the company has grown to 12 branches in Texas, with additional company brands servicing customers in Florida, Arizona, and South Carolina.

Recognizing the increasing popularity of home automation, In Charge created a specialty division in 2016 to focus on smart home technology, low-voltage systems, and security. Transitioning from their success in media room installations, they began prioritizing the integration and automation of smart devices and solutions, establishing themselves as pioneers in the emerging smart home industry.

At the time smart home technology was primarily a luxury offering, available only to high-end homeowners due to the significant initial costs, proprietary systems that required specialized technicians, and costly ongoing service and maintenance. However, In Charge had a vision to make smart home experiences accessible to everyone. This ambition led them to search for a scalable, user-friendly, and cost-effective solution to expand their smart home division.

Discovering Brilliant 

In Charge’s search for an innovative smart home solution brought them to the CEDIA Expo (Custom Electronic Design and Installation Association), a global trade association for companies that design, manufacture, and install technology solutions for residential environments. It was here that they discovered Brilliant NextGen. According to Greg Sariti, Director of Design & Home Technology, “As electricians, Brilliant fits squarely in our wheelhouse. We could do the installs, and our low-voltage tech could go in afterward to complete the configuration. It was perfect for our business.”

The excitement over Brilliant’s cost-effective and feature-rich smart home system was immediate. An enthusiastic call to a builder in San Antonio on the same day led to their first Brilliant installation project. This initial installation process was seamless, with straightforward panel and device configuration. From that point on, In Charge’s partnership with Brilliant flourished.

Scaling Up: A Whole-House Installation

A pivotal project involved a complete Brilliant installation in a $7 million luxury mansion. Brilliant’s team provided field support, working alongside In Charge to ensure a successful implementation and great collaboration. This collaboration was invaluable for both companies as it offered In Charge hands-on experience in maintaining aesthetic standards, leveraging the system’s full potential, and experiencing Brilliant's exceptional support.

Sean Gravett, Home Technology Manager at In Charge, emphasized the importance of Brilliant’s support hotline: “The person answering the call doesn’t run through a rote script. Instead, they listen, pick up the support from where you are in the steps, and give you the right next steps to solve your installation question.”

Competitive Edge: Smart Pricing and Feature Flexibility

After completing multiple installations, including the high-profile luxury home project, In Charge was confident in Brilliant’s capabilities. The system’s flexibility, integration options, and competitive pricing allowed them to win bids against integrators implementing more costly systems. Brilliant enabled In Charge to offer compelling smart home packages without undercutting their services. This approach ensured customer satisfaction while maintaining profitability. Said Sean, “All customers like the same level of security, features, and ease of use. Y'all offer a very affordable solution that I can install in a mansion or a traditional-sized home.” 

Building a Better Smart Home Experience

Brilliant and In Charge collaborated to develop standardized smart home packages for homebuilders in their region. This effort led to a breakthrough with Pacesetter Homes, which selected In Charge as the electricians for their smart home projects. By showcasing Brilliant’s ease of use and powerful features, In Charge gained opportunities to work with other builders, delivering streamlined and impactful smart home solutions.

Growing a Brilliant Business 

In Charge confidently builds their business with Brilliant NextGen because of several key advantages:

1. Versatility Across Home Types: Brilliant’s flexible system works equally well in a $7 million luxury home as in a $300,000 single-family residence, making it accessible to a wide range of homeowners.

2. Low Service and Warranty Costs: Brilliant’s stability and reliability minimize service calls. Most issues can be resolved with quick tips over the phone, saving time and reducing costs while ensuring customer satisfaction.

3. Ease of Installation: Installing Brilliant requires a licensed electrician but not a high-cost specialized technician. This reduces staffing expenses while maintaining high-quality installations.

4. Empowered Homeowners: Brilliant’s intuitive interface allows homeowners to create custom scenes and adjust settings independently, fostering a sense of ownership and satisfaction with their smart home system. These positive experiences reflect well on In Charge.

Recognized Leaders

In Charge’s partnership with Brilliant has helped them to scale their smart home business effectively. By delivering solutions that combine affordability, flexibility, and ease of use, they have established themselves as a leader and one of the largest residential electrical services providers in the smart home industry. Brilliant makes it easy, Greg shared, “What we love about it is once you put the control panel in and it fires up, it is rock solid. We can focus on the white glove service experience and easily exceed our happy customer’s expectations.” 

The collaboration with Brilliant NextGen enhances customer satisfaction and strengthens In Charge’s reputation as a provider of cutting-edge home technology solutions. Together, they continue to redefine what’s possible in the smart home space, making it accessible for everyone.