Smart home devices aren’t just a trend—they’re reshaping how people live. For professional builders, integrating smart technologies into projects is no longer an extra but an expectation. However, a critical question remains for homeowners and developers alike—what’s the return on investment (ROI) for these innovative devices?
Whether you’re pitching to a client for a custom build or developing a high-tech apartment complex, understanding and demonstrating the ROI of smart home devices is essential. This guide will explore what ROI means in this context, showcase various ways these devices deliver financial and lifestyle benefits, and provide actionable tips to effectively communicate those benefits to your clients.
By the end of this article, you’ll have the insight and tools needed to prove that smart homes aren’t just smarter—they’re an investment worth making.
What Does ROI Mean for Smart Home Devices?
ROI measures the financial return on an initial investment, but with smart home devices, it transcends pure dollars. Smart devices deliver value in multiple forms, including long-term savings, increased property value, enhanced security, environmental benefits, and improved convenience. Builders who understand this multifaceted ROI can better resonate with clients and demonstrate the advantages from both functional and financial standpoints.
To break it down simply, ROI for smart home devices comes from two primary streams:
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Monetary Savings through energy efficiency and reduced maintenance costs over time.
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Perceived Value through enhanced lifestyle amenities and future-proofing homes.
These combined factors make it easier to convince clients and buyers that smart home tech is a necessity, not a luxury.
Key Smart Home Investments and Their ROI
1. Smart Lighting Systems
Smart lighting systems, such as voice-controlled or motion-activated lights, stand out as a quick-win investment. These systems reduce energy consumption by using LED technology and customized schedules.
ROI Example:
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Installation costs for a homeowner can be offset by up to 40% energy savings on lighting bills.
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Builders can market properties as “energy-efficient smart homes,” which typically command higher resale prices.
2. Smart Thermostats
Devices like the Nest, Ecobee or Honeywell help homeowners regulate temperature automatically, depending on whether someone is at home, asleep, or away.
ROI Example:
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Studies show smart thermostats can save up to 10%-15% on heating and cooling bills annually.
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Builders can pitch this feature as a straightforward way to incorporate eco-friendly solutions into homes.
3. Smart Security Systems
From video-enabled doorbells to integrated motion sensors, security systems bring peace of mind while adding tangible value to properties.
ROI Example:
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Enhanced curb appeal and safety features increase perceived property value—often by 5%-10%.
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Insurance providers may offer discounts for homes equipped with monitored security systems.
4. Home Automation Hubs
Central controllers, like Brilliant Smart Home panels, simplify the operation of lighting, music, climate, or door locks—all from one device.
ROI Example:
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Builders can market this as a future-proofed solution that future occupants will grow into rather than out of.
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Smart hubs often increase buyer interest in premium-tier homes or luxury developments.
Communicating ROI to Clients
Build on Concrete Benefits
Use this quick template to explain the impact visually or verbally to clients:
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"Energy Efficient and Cost-Saving:" Show before-and-after examples or industry case studies to illustrate real financial savings.
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"Peace of Mind:" Use examples of smart security systems to demonstrate value in securing a home.
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"Premium Living Standards:" Illustrate how these technologies align with lifestyle trends and future-proof the property, boosting resale value.
Visual Demos
Live demonstrations of smart devices can have a powerful impact. Show them how to turn off all the lights from their couch with a tap on their phone. This hands-on experience helps potential buyers envision themselves using these features.
Incorporate Stories
Sharpen your pitch by using relatable, data-driven narratives. For example:
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“This energy monitoring system reduced one homeowner’s electricity bills by nearly $300 over six months.”
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“Properties with built-in smart technology sell 20% faster in competitive markets, with tech-heavy buyers.”
Offer ROI Tools
Many smart home solutions offer calculators or apps to quantify potential cost savings. Use these tools during discussions to illustrate immediate and long-term benefits.
Why Smart Homes Are the Future of Real Estate
The ROI of smart home devices goes far beyond cost. These devices speak to an evolving culture of convenience, tech integration, and sustainability. Including them in your builds or renovations positions you ahead of competitors while delivering your clients tremendous value.
Here’s how builders can make smart homes a go-to asset:
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Resale Value: Proactively promote the ROI to attract the right buyers to justify higher asking prices.
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Eco-Friendly Bonuses: Highlight energy-efficient systems to appeal to environmentally-conscious buyers.
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Convenience Factor: Showcase the harmony of interconnected, easy-to-control systems designed for modern living.
Buyers Want Innovation, Convenience and ROI
Modern buyers expect innovation at their fingertips, and smart home devices deliver that seamlessly. By implementing the best systems and communicating their value, you’ll set yourself as a leader in innovation-forward construction and design.
Want to explore how streamlined smart automation can enhance your next build? Start by learning more about the Brilliant Smart Home system for effortless control and immense client satisfaction. It’s time to future-proof your builds—and show just how smart smart homes can be.