Tech-savvy new homes for the next generation
A look into integrating smart technology in new-builds for Gen Z buyers. Explore how new-build developments are incorporating smart home technology to appeal to Gen Z buyers, from voice-activated assistants to energy-saving devices, and tips on leveraging these features effectively.
Tech savvy homes for the next generation
We love new-builds, and they’re only getting better. Rapid advancements in AI have exponentially improved The Internet of Things (IoT), and our phones – and now our voices – are becoming remote controls for our interconnected environments. Gen Z have never known life without technology, and it is a cornerstone of their lifestyles, meaning they expect more from tech than their preceding generations. In an age where technology is fused into almost all our daily activities, Gen Z homebuyers increasingly prioritise tech in their property search. Property needs to keep up.
To stay ahead of this rapidly developing curve, new-build developments are starting to produce smart homes as a standard, and more than half of UK homes are set to be smart homes by 2027.
Key smart technologies in new builds
So, what are the technologies that give smart homes their intelligence? Voice-activated assistants, smart security systems, thermostats, lighting, and smart appliances come together to create an interconnected environment that affords its dweller an easier and more comfortable life.
Voice-activated assistants
Amazon’s Alexa, the Google Assistant, or Siri in the Apple HomeKit, act as the brain for your smart home. In a fully integrated property, they can play songs through surround sound, set timers for cooking, remind you of upcoming events, change the lighting and heating settings, and even operate our appliances.
Smart security systems
Integrated surveillance cameras and smart locks that can be accessed through your phone give you peace of mind, whether you’re at home or on the go. For example, if an alarm is tripped, you’re sent a mobile notification and can immediately see what the disturbance is. Smart locks enable homeowners to grant virtual keys to whomever they choose without needing to give a physical key – this is perfect if you’re away and your pet needs feeding, or if you’ve received a delivery that needs to be placed inside. You can also rescind a virtual key as quickly as it was created.
Energy saving devices
Gen Z cares about sustainability. Statistics tell us that they’re willing to pay 10% more for sustainable brands, and when shopping, three out of four care more about sustainability than brand names.
Smart thermostats and smart lighting systems allow more efficient environment control throughout the home. Using sensors and weather data to regulate temperature and minimise energy waste, smart thermostats can save up to 15% on cooling and around 10-12% on heating costs. Smart lighting systems use sensors to turn lights on and off as you enter and exit a room. You can also access the controls on your phone, meaning you never have to worry about accidentally leaving a light on when you leave the house, which, again, reduces your environmental impact and decreases your energy bills.
Gen Z as homebuyers
Referred to as “Digital Natives”, Gen Z has grown up with smart technology – over 95% own a smartphone and 83% own a laptop. Although the majority of them haven’t yet bought homes,43% say that smart home capabilities are a key consideration when choosing where to live. This trend is only set to rise as smart homes become an industry standard for new-build developments, rather than a luxury.
Smart tech and new builds
New builds in the UK can be equipped with a whole host of smart technologies to meet the increasing demands of the market. Due to their wiring infrastructure and modern construction techniques, new builds are particularly well suited for smart home technology. They are often designed with this in mind, making the system integration a more efficient and cost-effective process.
What smart tech will Gen Z want?
With all the rapidly evolving options for smart home technology, navigating what tech Gen Z will want in their homes can be challenging. Lifestyle, area and property type can also greatly affect this. Luckily, Croma has released an excellent guide on choosing smart tech here.
All this proves that first time buyers who see smart homes as an unattainable prospect should think again. At Share to Buy, they can take advantage of home-buying schemes like Shared Ownership to land the tech-savvy home of their dreams.