Smart Home Technology

Smart home technology is connected residential technology that enables automated or remote control of in-unit systems such as thermostats, lighting, locks, security devices, appliances, TVs, and voice assistants. In multifamily, these devices may be installed and supported by the community, brought by residents, or managed through a shared property infrastructure. Because these devices connect to the internet, they also require clear operating processes for access, move-ins, move-outs, support, and cybersecurity.

A property installs smart locks and thermostats in each apartment. When a resident moves in, access is activated automatically; when they move out, access is removed, helping the onsite team manage turns and reduce manual key handling.

Smart home technology can affect leasing, maintenance, resident experience, access control, and unit turns. For operations leaders, the key value is not just the device itself, but whether it fits property workflows, integrates with core systems, and can be supported consistently across communities. It also matters because connected devices can expand cybersecurity risk if they are not properly managed.