| We're not just talking about pre-wired computer | | | | MP3 play list from the TV remote. Even control |
| internet cabling that's installed during construction. That's | | | | elaborate in-home theatres. |
| just the beginning. You see, many new homes are | | | | Many home builders and digital home product |
| now best described as digitally automated. In fact, | | | | companies recommend that buyers wire new homes |
| home automation-which was once reserved for only | | | | for automation, even if they don't intend to buy any of |
| truly wealthy people, has become much more | | | | the full systems or even any of the individual |
| common-because it is now much more affordable. | | | | components right away. That's because it makes |
| According to a survey of homebuilders, about 5 | | | | good financial sense; automation can increase a |
| percent of all homes built in the US in 2005 have some | | | | home's resale value by 3% or more. |
| type of whole-house control system. | | | | A basic automation system, which might include lighting |
| These "smart home" features could include a home | | | | and security, could cost around $2,000. The average |
| security system that can be operated by a button or | | | | amount invested is $6,000. But customers who want |
| on phone or computer located anywhere in the world; | | | | to place themselves firmly in the high-tech age |
| as long as you have internet access or can get a cell | | | | generally invest in a system that falls into the |
| phone signal, you can literally take care of your home | | | | $100,000+ range. According to industry leaders, |
| when you're thousands of miles-even continents-away. | | | | homeowners are the ones driving the market. Those |
| For instance, if someone breaks in, the system will | | | | who are interested in automation usually do their |
| send you a message-along with footage from your | | | | homework and research the many possibilities that are |
| security cameras. There are also automated remote | | | | out there-before they buy or build a home. |
| control systems that open and close garage doors. | | | | If this all sounds a little "George Jetson" futuristic to you, |
| Turn the pool pump and outdoor lights on and off. | | | | remember that things like personal computers and cell |
| Adjust the thermostat and the water heater. Click | | | | phones weren't that common a mere 15 years ago. |
| lights on and off as someone walks from room to | | | | The world of technology is moving faster and faster. |
| room. Set and re-set the sprinkler system. Activate an | | | | And it's probably already in a home near you. |