Is Smart-Home Tech Actually Increasing Resale Value?

Smart-home technology — things like smart thermostats, automated lighting, security systems, connected appliances and home automation hubs — is everywhere these days. But when it comes to real estate resale value, does it truly pay off?

If you’re buying, selling, or investing in a place like Bend, Redmond or the Central Oregon region, here’s what you need to know.

What the Research Says

• Various industry analyses suggest homes with smart-home features can command a 3 %–5% higher asking price or beat comparable listings in similar condition and location. Home Stratosphere+4smarthomewizards.com+4cedia.org+4

• Some smart features may help a home sell faster. For instance, smart security and automation are mentioned as buyer-appeal enhancements in real-estate trade articles. probuilder.com+1

• That said — the value added is not uniform. Many reports stress that which tech, how integrated it is, and how the local market views it all matter. cedia.org+2smarthomewizards.com+2

Why Smart Tech Can Add Value

Here are the main reasons smart home features might boost resale appeal:

• Buyer Demand: Younger buyers (Millennials / Gen Z) and tech-savvy buyers increasingly expect some level of automation and connectivity. smarthomewizards.com+1

• Perceived Modern & Move-in Ready: A home that already has smart features signals less “work” for the buyer — less need to retrofit.

• Energy & Efficiency: Smart thermostats, lighting, and automated systems can reduce utility costs or offer better comfort — which is a selling point. iWired+1

• Security & Safety: Smart security systems (locks, cameras, doorbells) are strongly valued by buyers who prioritize safety and convenience. Home Stratosphere+1

Why the Boost Is Limited / Context-Dependent

Despite the upside, there are important caveats:

• Integration matters: A few plug-in smart gadgets won’t move the needle much. Reports suggest the best returns come when the tech is well integrated and professionally installed. smarthomewizards.com+1

• Tech obsolescence risk: Tech changes fast. What’s in vogue today may be outdated at resale time, which may reduce perceived value. (One commentary noted smart tech may face faster depreciation than structural improvements.) smarthomewizards.com

• Local market and buyer type: In some markets smart homes may command noticeable premiums, but in others — especially where buyers are less tech-focused or where affordability is the dominant issue — the payoff is smaller. openPR.com+1

• Cost vs value: If upgrades are very expensive, the premium may not fully cover the cost. Some tech might be “icing” rather than core value-add. Reddit comments (anecdotal) suggest many buyers don’t pay extra just for gadgets. Reddit

What This Means for Buyers & Sellers in Central Oregon

If you’re in the Bend / Redmond / Central Oregon area:

• For Buyers: If you see a listing that highlights smart features — “smart thermostat, whole-home automation, security system, EV charging integration” — that can be a differentiator. But don’t overpay purely for tech; location, condition, layout still dominate value.

• For Sellers: If your home already has smart features, make sure you market them clearly. “Smart home ready”, “integrated automation”, “security & energy smart” are powerful listing terms. If you’re going to invest in upgrades, prioritize features that align with buyer preferences in the area (e.g., energy efficiency, EV charging, smart HVAC) rather than niche luxury tech.

• For Investors: Smart tech may help with rental appeal and shorter vacancy periods — e.g., remote monitoring, smart locks — which can contribute to overall property value indirectly via better performance.

• Affordability & market realities: In markets like Central Oregon where affordability is already challenged, smart home tech is unlikely to make up for a weak location, high price, or sub-par condition — it’s a bonus, not a substitute.

Yes — smart home technology can increase resale value and marketability — particularly when it’s well-done, aligned with buyer preferences, and integrated into the home’s overall quality. But it’s not a silver bullet. Location, condition, price point, and local market dynamics still dominate.

If you’re buying, selling or upgrading in Central Oregon, treat smart tech as one of the value-add features — focus on what buyers in your area truly want (energy efficiency, security, connectivity), make sure it’s installed well, and market it clearly.

FAQs

Q: Does every smart home upgrade equally improve resale value?

A: No. Simple features (smart thermostat, smart lock) may add a little value, while fully integrated home automation systems often deliver more. But the marginal return diminishes if the tech is too niche or poorly implemented.

Q: Will smart home tech help during appraisal?

A: Possibly — if local appraisers recognize it and comparable homes support it. But structural, location and condition features still carry the most weight in appraisals. Don’t rely on smart tech alone.

Q: Are there smart features that don’t help value?

A: Yes. Gadgets that are too personalized (home theaters, specialty automation, non-standard platforms) may not appeal broadly and could even become a liability if they need maintenance or upgrades.

Q: Should I install smart tech if I plan to sell soon?

A: If you plan to sell within 1–2 years, focus on upgrades with broader appeal (smart thermostat, security system, EV charger) rather than expensive custom automation. Marketing those features will help.

Q: Is smart home tech more valuable in certain markets?

A: Yes. Tech-savvy regions, higher-income neighborhoods, areas with strong demand for move-in ready and energy-efficient homes tend to reward smart upgrades more. In more moderate markets, the premium may be smaller.