Today’s homeowners aren’t only focused on style – they desire the safety provided by smart home technology. A 2016 Coldwell Banker Real Estate survey found that 45 percent of adults polled in the U.S. either own smart home technology or plan to invest in it this year. Even more indicative of the secure, smart home boom is that 54 percent of those polled said they would buy or install smart home products if it would speed up a sale – a clear indicator that people are looking for smarter, safer homes.

The most sought-after smart home feature in the survey was security systems (46 percent).

“A Wi-Fi security camera, for example, allows you to see what’s going on at home 24/7,” says Yuping Pan, Realtor.com. “A smart lock allows you to let guests in while you’re away.”

Investing in smart home technology that also provides an element of safer living makes a home more attractive if and when a homeowner decides to sell.

“Those that provide safety and security will provide the greatest rate of return,” says Mike Bruce, product marketing manager for Morris Plains, N.J.-based Honeywell, manufacturer of smart home products.

Some of the latest smart home technologies include security systems that automatically open the blinds, turn on interior lights and flash exterior lights to help police pinpoint a house, and a bedside button that locks the doors and shuts off the lights.

When purchasing any smart home technology, choose a trusted provider and select products that are easily upgradable,” Bruce advises.

According to Steve Kolobaric at Weiser, a Canada-based lockset manufacturer, there are several security tips that everyone should be aware of this season as they take in the springtime temperatures.

For a safer, more secure home this spring, follow these tips from Kolobaric:

1. Spring cleaning

If you’re tossing out boxes or packaging from items that you bought throughout the year, be sure to properly cut, stack and tie the cardboard together when you put it by the curb for recycling. Plopping the boxes for your 72” TV, PlayStation and MacBook out in front of your house gives would-be burglars some tips on what they can find inside.

2. Check for damage

Take some time to inspect your house and property once the snow and ice have melted. Check your windows and make sure they still lock properly, replace any burned out outdoor light bulbs and see if any fences or gates need to be fixed.

3. Upgrade your locks

If you haven’t changed your front or back door locksets in years, spring is the ideal time to make the change. If you recently purchased your home, you have no idea who may have a key. Conversely, if you’ve been living there for years you may not remember whom you gave a key to years ago. Take this chance to upgrade your security to a Weiser Kevo or Lockitron Bolt, which allows your smartphone to act as your key.

4. Spring break

Ask a neighbor to check on your property while you’re gone if you plan on going away this spring. Simply collecting your mail, sweeping (or shoveling) your walkway and even occasionally parking a car in your driveway will make it look like someone is home. Potential burglars like to target unoccupied homes.

5. Lock up

Spring and summer means more time spent outside but don’t forget to lock your front door when you’re not in the house. If you plan on working in the backyard or just popping over to visit a neighbor, lock your door. Most break-ins occur through an unlocked door. If you’re airing your house out during a spring-cleaning session, be sure to lock your windows when you close them, especially any on the main floor.

 

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