Smart Solutions for Apartment Renters

The following contribution is from another author.

If you’re new to the renting world, you’re in luck: today’s modern rental properties offer more amenities than ever! While state-of-the-art fitness centers (some including yoga studios and even personal trainers), rooftop terraces, and green spaces have been near the top of the “must-have” list for generations, up-and-coming renters want more.

For example, with the rise of remote work during the pandemic, co-working spaces with high-speed internet and private meeting rooms began popping up within complexes everywhere. Some modern rental apartments also provide on-site parking solutions with automated parking systems and electric vehicle charging stations.

But the most significant trend for new renters has more to do with how technology boosts convenience and enhances your lifestyle. While today’s 20-somethings seem more tech-savvy than prior generations, you don’t have to be a member of Gen Z to appreciate the benefits of modern gear and gadgets in your rental home. Here are a few smart solutions for apartment renters of all gens to watch for!

Smart Locks

When apartment hunting, look for properties with smart locks you can control remotely via an app. This allows you to lock or unlock your apartment door without a key, making it easier to provide temporary access to guests and control who enters and exits your apartment. 

Smart Thermostat

Many apartment buildings offer smart thermostats to regulate the temperature and save energy. In fact, depending on your temperature preferences and schedule, you can save up to 10% per year on your heating and cooling bills. 

You can control your smart thermostat remotely if you’re out of town and would like to conserve energy while you’re gone; you can set schedules to optimize heating or cooling depending on the outside climate and occupancy patterns. Some of these gadgets even learn your preferences over time!  

Smart Appliances

While smart appliances have been popular for decades, some apartments don’t feature them, so it’s important to ask. If your place doesn’t include an in-unit washer/dryer, find out if it features a community laundry room using smart appliances. 

Smart Plugs

Smart plugs are super-portable and easy to use anywhere. They enable you to control and automate your electronics remotely from an app on your smartphone, set a schedule for their operation, or even monitor energy usage. 

Smart Lighting Systems

With a digital lighting system, you may control your lights with voice commands or through an app on your smartphone. You can manage your lighting remotely or set your preferences through a timer, including brightness and customized lighting scenes to match your mood or activities. These systems typically require smart bulbs or switches; some manufacturers make switches specifically for their light bulbs.

Video Doorbell

Not every apartment building offers video doorbells per unit, but they are portable and easily installed independently. A video doorbell lets you see and speak to visitors at your front door- even when you’re not home. Not only does this enhance security and allow you to safely receive your packages, but it also provides a direct way to communicate with guests if you’re running late and your landlord if they need access to your place when you aren’t there.

Smart Security Cameras

While most apartment complexes and buildings offer external cameras for safety, there are more personalized options out there tailored to your needs. Easy to install and operate, many of these cameras offer motion detection, night vision, and cloud storage if you’d like to record activity inside and/or outside your home. 

Voice Assistants

Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa are tech staples for many homes these days, primarily because they’re so convenient and offer a wide range of capabilities. Not only will they play music, get weather updates, keep your shopping list up to date, and answer random questions, but many can also control the smart devices in your home. For example, you can link your voice assistant with compatible smart appliances, lighting systems, home security systems, and more. 

Smart Blinds or Curtains

App-controlled motorized blinds or curtains allow you to adjust them according to your privacy needs, sunlight, and other preferences. Many of these window treatments can also help you save on heating and cooling, as you can create automated schedules to keep out or allow in as much light as you like throughout the seasons. 

Leak Detectors

Another gadget that many landlords use is a leak detector that provides an early warning system for leaky water sources in the apartment. These can proactively identify leaks to help prevent costly repairs and minimize water damage. 

Smart Home Security System

Many innovative home security systems offer packages that you can mix and match according to your needs. For example, a comprehensive system may include cameras, door and window sensors, motion detectors, smoke/carbon monoxide sensors, and a central hub for monitoring and controlling security features. 

Good To Know: Many renters insurance companies offer discounts for using some of these smart devices. If you’re adding any of these gadgets to your apartment home, remember to check with your landlord or property management to ensure that installing smart devices is allowed and that any required permissions are obtained.

Whether it’s your first place or you’re a veteran renter, smart solutions for apartment renters can enhance convenience, security, energy efficiency, and overall quality of life. When you’re apartment hunting, be sure to research your options. You may find a place outfitted with the newest tech to create a cozy yet modern nest to hang your hat!