According to experts, these smart security upgrades add the most value to your home
If you’re spending hundreds or even thousands of dollars on home security technology, it’s good to know what your return on investment is, especially if it can also increase the value of your home.
When it comes to the smart home, security devices are high on the list of things buyers want: A A survey by Security.org found that 78% of home buyers would be willing to pay more for a home equipped with useful smart devices, while a study by Parks Associates Research has shown that households are more concerned about physical security, leading to an increase in the adoption rate of security systems in the 2020s.
Not all home security technology is designed to stay put. In fact, we have a whole list of security systems you can pack in a box and take with you when you move. But if you leave home security systems to another buyer, they can increase the value of your home or at least make it easier to sell a house. That goes for house flipping, downsizing, or even getting new tenants into a rental. Here’s how it all works.
Even a single device, like a video doorbell, can add a touch of high-tech to a home for sale.
How Much Can Security Devices Increase Your Home’s Market Value?
We’d love to pull some exact numbers out of a hat, but fluctuating housing markets and ever-changing prices (or priorities for smart homes) make that difficult. Consumer Reports estimates that certain types of smart home technology can increase a home’s value by 3% to 5%, but data on specific devices, such as home security cameras, isn’t readily available and depends on what individual buyers actually want in a home. Vivint has a small study room It shows that homes with security features cost nearly $38 more per square foot than homes without security. However, there are many variables that play a role in this, including the type of home, different neighborhoods, and additional amenities.
The bottom line? Smart security upgrades can make a home easier to sell, and buyers are more likely to opt for a smart home over a similar home without smart technology. But home value increases are unpredictable and often based on local expectations. Keep in mind that there are also proven ways that home security can save on ongoing costs for a home, as long as you keep the property.
Home security systems can be an incentive for buyers interested in security.
The best home security technology to improve the value of your home
Home security technology can make a big difference in a home with just a few devices, making it an easy selling point. These systems tend to have the most impact.
A security system with a sensor set and hub: A complete security system that can be armed or disarmed to protect a home when people are away offers an immediate, clear benefit to a home. It gets big bonus points if the system can integrate with other smart home devices like thermostats, video doorbells, and similar gadgets that new buyers might want to add. Check out our lists for the best DIY home security systems , top overall security systems , and cheap systems . We’ll cover third-party options that can support systems like these and more important information.
Security cameras (especially with lights): Vivint’s research found that security cameras and lights are the most sought-after security features among Americans. (Interestingly, preferences also vary by state, which could also affect buyer interest.) It’s easy to lump the two together into the best security cameras with lights and the best cameras with floodlights. You can also check out the best overall cameras , the best 4K cameras , and the best home cameras without required subscriptions.
Smart locks: A national survey among homeowners showed that one of the most recommended security devices by insurance agents is a smart lock. It offers basic front door security and access control, and many models can also work with popular home security systems. You can unlock it remotely, use fingerprints, share access keys with friends or visitors, and much more. Check out our full list of the best smart locks for more information.
The Aqara Smart Replacement Night Lock looks great and feels great.
Video doorbells: Video doorbells are one of the most popular types of smart home security, keeping tabs on visitors and packages, sending you notifications, and letting you speak through the doorbell when someone comes by. It’s a comprehensive package in one device that’s usually fairly easy to install and has plenty of classic appeal for home buyers looking for security. Check out our guides to the best video doorbells and the best cheap doorbells to see options from Google Nest, Arlo, Eufy, and many others.
Smart smoke detectors: Insurance agents also often recommend a smart smoke detector/carbon monoxide detector/fire alarm for homes. These devices are incredibly accurate, and some models can even alert you to potential fires even when you’re not home, allowing you to take quick action. They also forgo annoying battery-low beeps and testing requirements, instead using smart notifications about when your detector needs attention. Check out our list of the best smoke detectors for more information.
What about professional home security and the value of your home?
Professional monitoring services may lower your homeowners insurance, but you can’t leave them behind for new owners. Therefore, they don’t really add value to your home or make it more likely that a buyer will choose your home. Even brands like ADT with their professional installation and required monitoring contracts still recommend that you take your system with you when you move. For maximum value for your home, we recommend sticking with a security system that doesn’t require a contract and has options that don’t include professional monitoring if a buyer doesn’t want to pay for it.
Blink offers a low-cost option for a smart floodlight camera.
Are leftover security equipment safe to use in a new home?
This is an important question. Never use someone else’s old login or account, and don’t expect to transfer your account to new homebuyers. That makes it easy for someone to gain unauthorized access to the system. Instead, wipe appliances completely before you move, and provide the new homeowners with manuals and installation instructions.
If you are a home buyer, never use a security device that looks like it is active and has not been reset. Instead, perform a hard reset to wipe the device and set it up using your own smartphone. You can usually find the model number or other important information on the device itself if you need to look it up.
For an even more in-depth look at home security, check out our guides on the worst places to install a security camera, proven tips to deter burglars, and expert advice on how thieves are most likely to rob a home.
