Imagine this: You just moved into your new home. You're holding your favorite coffee mug, but can't remember if you locked the front door—or turned off the lights in the kitchen. With the right smart home setup, those little worries can disappear with a quick tap on your phone.

For first-time homeowners, technology isn’t just a cool bonus—it’s a practical tool for convenience, safety, and even saving money. In today’s real estate landscape, smart homes are more than a trend; they’re quickly becoming the standard.

"Smart features are something our buyers ask about more and more. They want homes that work as hard as they do—helping them feel secure, connected, and in control," says Peter Klein, Team Leader at Tress Homes.

Whether you’ve just closed on your first property or are preparing to move in, investing in smart home devices can offer real peace of mind. Let’s explore the best gadgets to consider and why they’re worth it.

Why Smart Home Tech Matters Now

In a world where everything from groceries to meetings happens with a tap, your home should keep up. Smart devices allow homeowners to:

• Control security, lighting, and climate from anywhere
  

• Cut energy bills by managing consumption
  

• Add long-term value to their property
  

• Enhance day-to-day comfort and convenience
  
  

For new homeowners especially, these benefits offer a smoother transition and a stronger sense of ownership.

Top Smart Home Devices for New Homeowners

Here’s a short list of essential smart devices that can make your new house feel like home—while boosting efficiency and peace of mind.

No more spare keys hidden under flower pots. Smart locks let you lock and unlock doors remotely, give access to guests or service workers, and track who’s coming and going.
Pair it with a video doorbell like Ring or Google Nest Hello, and you can see who’s at your door—whether you’re home or not.

"For families and solo homeowners alike, knowing who’s at the door before answering is huge. It adds a layer of comfort and safety," Peter Klein notes.

Devices like the Nest Learning Thermostat or ecobee adjust your home's temperature automatically based on your habits, saving you energy and money. They’re also compatible with most HVAC systems and can be controlled via phone or voice assistant.

Forget flipping switches. With Philips Hue or LIFX, you can set mood lighting, schedule lights for when you're away, or even program lights to gradually brighten in the morning like a sunrise.

Think of these as the brains behind the scenes. Devices like Amazon Echo or Google Nest Hub tie your whole smart home together, allowing you to control everything with voice commands or routines (like "Goodnight" to lock doors, dim lights, and adjust the thermostat).

Overcoming Common Smart Home Challenges

Concerned about installation or cost? You're not alone. Many homeowners worry that smart devices require advanced tech skills or big budgets.

But the truth is:

• Most smart devices today are DIY-friendly with easy apps and step-by-step setup.
  

• You can start small and build over time—begin with a smart lock or thermostat, then expand.
  

• These devices can actually save money on utilities and even lower your home insurance in some cases.
  
  

Getting Started: A Quick Smart Home Checklist

Want a simple way to begin? Use this starter guide:

✅ Smart Lock
✅ Video Doorbell
✅ Smart Thermostat
✅ Smart Light Bulbs
✅ Voice Assistant/Smart Hub

Start with one or two items based on your lifestyle needs, and grow from there.

Final Thoughts: A Smart Home is a Smarter Move

As a new homeowner, you’re setting the stage for how you’ll live in your space—and how your home will work for you. Adding smart technology helps protect your investment, simplify daily routines, and create a home that adapts to you.

Ready to make your new house even more "you"?

Visit homeonward.com or email tresshomes@gmail.com for guidance on home tech, move-in planning, or to start your search for the perfect smart-ready property.

Pro Tip from Peter Klein:

"Start with one area that matters most—security, comfort, or energy use—and build your smart system from there. The key is to make it work for your lifestyle."