Are Smart Home Upgrades Actually Worth Every Penny?

Smart technology is an attractive upgrade, yet you may wonder whether the upgrades are truly worth the extra cost. From simple starter devices to more advanced setups, there are various options to fit different budgets and preferences. Here's a closer look at three types of smart tech upgrades.

Smart Garage Door Openers With Phone Apps

Smart garage door openers have become one of the most common entry-level smart home upgrades. Some brands, like LiftMaster, also offer greater value by combining intelligent features with an easy-to-use setup. After installation, the device connects directly to your smartphone, allowing you to control your garage remotely via an app.

Do Smart Garage Door Openers With Phone Apps Cost Significantly More?

Garage door openers are generally one of the more affordable garage upgrades. However, smart-enabled models like LiftMaster cost slightly more due to built-in app controls and advanced security features. Homeowners often find that the price difference justifies the convenience that the smart functionality offers.

Depending on the LiftMaster model and its features, a unit typically starts at a few hundred dollars. Pricing increases with more advanced functionality, such as enhanced smart controls and performance features.

Are Smart Garage Door Openers Worth It?

While smart garage door openers may not dramatically raise a home's resale value on their own, they can improve buyer perception. Added features, such as enhanced security, also make the cost of smart garage door openers with phone apps worthwhile.

For example, LiftMaster supports a wide range of garage use from standard needs to heavy-duty daily operations. They also include advanced security features, such as safety sensors and forced-entry protection. The smart device comes with secure remotes and keypads to help prevent code hacking.

Video Doorbells

Video doorbells are another smart upgrade that continues to attract a strong following. Ring Video Doorbells offer battery-powered or wired installation options for different needs. Depending on the model, Ring devices offer high-resolution video exceeding 1080p progressive scan, motion detection, night vision and app alerts. For a simpler setup, Arlo Video Doorbells support DIY installation and 2K high-resolution coverage.

How Affordable Are Video Doorbells?

The initial purchase of a video doorbell is usually affordable, but you should also consider whether you need to subscribe to cloud-based storage plans. You should expect to spend a few hundred dollars up-front, with subscriptions adding to the long-term cost.

Are Video Doorbells Worth It?

Video doorbells are often worth the investment for added security and buyer appeal. They also help position a home as modern and move-in-ready, with a range of smart features depending on the specific brand and model chosen.

To access features like cloud video storage and enhanced smart alerts, both Arlo and Ring require a subscription plan, which is an important ongoing cost to consider.

Smart Light Systems

The WiZ Smart Lighting System is a good starting point to add smart features to your home. It offers a simple, connected lighting setup via your Wi-Fi network, making automated lighting more flexible and convenient.

How Much Do Smart Lights Cost?

Many users consider WiZ Smart Lighting a budget-friendly smart lighting option. The cost will vary depending on whether you are fitting out an individual room or upgrading to a full-home lighting setup.

The WiZ system includes individual bulbs, lamps, lightstrips and full luminaires. WiZ Smart LED bulbs are especially popular because they are affordable, easy to install and offer smart controls via the WiZ app.

Are Smart Lights Worth It?

Smart lighting systems like WiZ are worth considering for tech-savvy home buyers who want an IoT ecosystem without a major up-front investment. Although more affordable than advanced smart lighting systems, WiZ still delivers a connected IoT experience with app, remote and wall-switch controls. For added convenience, WiZ supports voice control through Amazon Alexa and Google Home.

Smart Tech That Pays Off

Smart home upgrades cost more than traditional home features in many cases, but the combination of convenience and practical benefits makes them worth considering. Smart tech is now available in a variety of options, making it accessible to homeowners. If you're thinking about how these upgrades affect resale value, see our guide on which high-end home features actually pay off and our modern home efficiency checklist for a broader look at value-boosting improvements.