Smart Home Upgrades That Add Convenience and Resale Value

Introduction

Home technology is no longer a luxury—it’s becoming an expectation. Whether you’re remodeling your kitchen, finishing your basement, or upgrading your whole home, smart features can dramatically increase day-to-day convenience and long-term resale value.

For homeowners in Salt Lake County, smart home upgrades not only offer practical benefits like automation, energy savings, and security—they also appeal to buyers who expect homes to be tech-ready.

In this guide, we’ll break down the most valuable smart home improvements you can make, why they matter, and how to approach them during a renovation or home remodel.

Why Smart Home Upgrades Are Worth the Investment

Smart home features are more than trendy gadgets—they’re now part of what buyers look for when evaluating homes. When installed during renovations, they can offer:

• Everyday convenience
  
• Remote access and control
  
• Enhanced security
  
• Better energy efficiency
  
• A boost in home appraisal or resale value
  
  

With new technology entering the market every year, it’s easier than ever to integrate smart solutions without blowing your renovation budget.

Best Smart Home Upgrades to Consider

Here are the top smart upgrades that combine ease-of-use and resale value—especially when included as part of a renovation or basement finish.

Smart Thermostats

These devices learn your habits and optimize heating and cooling schedules automatically.

Benefits:

• Reduces monthly energy bills
  
• Compatible with most HVAC systems
  
• Adds “intelligent efficiency” to your home profile
  
  

Smart thermostats are especially helpful in Utah, where winter heating and summer cooling cycles can be intense.

Smart Lighting Systems

Automated lighting lets you control brightness, color temperature, and schedules via phone or voice command.

Benefits:

• Enhances ambiance in living rooms, kitchens, and basements
  
• Helps lower energy use
  
• Can be set to vacation or security modes when away
  
  

A full home remodel or basement finish is the perfect time to wire lighting controls behind the walls.

Smart Locks and Doorbells

Security tech is one of the first things buyers notice. These upgrades are practical and easy to demonstrate during a showing.

Benefits:

• Grant or revoke access from your phone
  
• Know who’s at your door even when you’re away
  
• Adds a modern edge to entryways or rental units
  
  

Great for in-law suites or finished basements with separate entrances.

Smart Outlets and Plugs

These are small upgrades that go a long way toward making your home fully connected.

Benefits:

• Control lamps, appliances, or fans from your phone
  
• Set schedules for energy savings
  
• Easy to install during electrical updates
  
  

Smart outlets are simple and affordable to install during a renovation, when wiring is already accessible.

Smart Smoke and CO2 Detectors

Modern detectors notify you via mobile alert—not just a loud beep. They’re more sensitive and can differentiate between steam and smoke.

Benefits:

• Increase safety
  
• Reduce false alarms
  
• Offer peace of mind for remote property owners
  
  

These are often required in new builds or remodels to meet code—making them a logical upgrade.

Smart Water Sensors

Basements are especially prone to water leaks. Smart sensors can detect moisture early and send alerts to your phone.

Benefits:

• Prevent costly flood damage
  
• Protect finished spaces like carpeted rooms or media areas
  
• Can be placed under sinks, near sump pumps, or behind appliances
  
  

A must-have in Utah homes with below-grade living space or older plumbing systems.

Smart Blinds and Window Treatments

Automated blinds may not be a first priority, but they’re an impressive touch for high-end remodels or energy-focused homes.

Benefits:

• Enhance light control and privacy
  
• Can be automated based on sunlight or time of day
  
• Adds a luxury feel to bedrooms and living rooms
  
  

They work especially well in basements or rooms with hard-to-reach windows.

When and How to Add Smart Features

Integrating smart tech is easiest during a renovation, when wiring, framing, and wall access are open. Here's how to approach it:

Step 1: Plan Early

Smart features should be part of your project scope from the start. That way, the contractor can run the right wiring and suggest products that work with your home’s layout and infrastructure.

Step 2: Choose a Centralized System

Many homeowners use a hub like Google Home, Amazon Alexa, or Apple HomeKit to tie everything together. Choose one platform and stick with compatible devices to avoid frustrations later.

Step 3: Prioritize Value Over Trend

Focus on upgrades that save time, money, or stress—not just novelty. A smart thermostat or water sensor adds more value than a color-changing light strip.

Step 4: Keep It Flexible

Whenever possible, choose systems that can be updated or expanded. Wi-Fi-based devices with mobile apps are often easier to upgrade than hardwired, proprietary systems.

Step 5: Work With a Pro

A home renovation team familiar with smart home systems can install everything safely, ensure code compliance, and help with setup—saving you hours of frustration.

Conclusion

Smart home upgrades aren’t just a trend—they’re a modern standard. When installed during a renovation or basement finish, they add real convenience to your lifestyle and strong resale appeal for future buyers.

Whether you’re upgrading for personal comfort, preparing for sale, or finishing a new space, these features can make your home feel more secure, efficient, and valuable.

If you’re ready to integrate smart tech into your next home renovation or basement project, Foundation Finishes is here to help. Our Salt Lake County remodeling team can guide you through the best options, install them properly, and future-proof your home in the process.

Contact us today to start planning your smart home renovation.